Frank Lampard facing Allan and Salomon Rondon conundrums as Everton set for defensive boost
We take a look at the changes Frank Lampard might be tempted to make to his Everton starting line-up for the game against Chelsea
Everton return to Premier League action this weekend when they welcome Chelsea to Goodison Park.
Everton dropped into the bottom three on Sunday after Burnley beat Wolves 1-0 at Turf Moor before they missed the chance to climb immediately back out of it by going down 2-0 at Liverpool.
It is the first time the Blues have found themselves in the relegation places this late into a season since 1999. Frank Lampard’s side desperately need to start picking up points if they want to avoid playing Championship football next season.
ADAM JONES: Allan statistics you won't have read as Everton role against Liverpool becomes clear
READ MORE: Sam Allardyce names 'ultimate problem' behind Everton's 'desperate situation'
And ahead of Sunday’s game at Goodison, we have taken a look at the starting changes Blues boss Lampard could make to his side for the game.
Jordan Pickford will no doubt start in goal, while at the back, Yerry Mina could return in place of either Michael Keane or Mason Holgate. Both did nothing wrong against Liverpool at the weekend, but given Lampard opted to rest the Colombia international at Anfield, it is hard not to imagine he will come back in.
While Vitalii Mykolenko, who has produced some encouraging displays in recent weeks, and Seamus Coleman are both expected to keep their places. Although Jonjoe Kenny could come in for either if required, or if Lampard wants to freshen things up.
Abdoulaye Doucoure returned to the Everton midfield on Sunday to partner Allan, with Fabian Delph taking up a position on the bench. But the former Manchester City man could very easily return in place of the Brazilian on Sunday.
In front of them, Alex Iwobi has found a new lease of life at Everton under Lampard playing in a central role, and even though Dele Alli again came off the bench at Anfield, it is hard not to imagine that the former Arsenal man will again be given the nod.
Both Anthony Gordon and Richarlison are set to keep their places in the side, while Salomon Rondon could come in to replace Demarai Gray and lead the line in the absence of Dominic Calvert-Lewin.