The Toffees play against the Russians in their last group stage match…
Everton play against Krasnodar on Thursday night in what is a dead rubber for both sides in their Europa League group. The Toffees have already qualified, while the Russian side are already out of the competition.
SEE MORE
Power Ranking The Champions League Last 16 Teams, With Chelsea 3rd, Man City 7th & Arsenal 9th
This Season V Last Season Comparison: Liverpool Not Quite Bottom But Arsenal Surprisingly Low
Manchester United Have Already Won One Title Under Louis Van Gaal, With Arsenal Second
This has given Roberto Martinez a chance to blood youngsters and put in some players who are on the way back from injuries. He has already named nine of the players who will be on the pitch, and said “two diamonds” will make up the numbers. Here is our predicted line up, with a prediction of who the two will be…
GK) Joel Robles
The keeper should be in for his first appearance of the season for the Toffees.
RB) Tyias Browning
The full-back impressed in appearances against Liverpool and Manchester United, and he will get another chance here.
LB) Luke Garbutt
The youngster has become Leighton Baines’ understudy, and should start with the England international getting a rest.
CB) Antolin Alcaraz
The Paraguayan will have to marshall an inexperienced back line on his return from injury.
CB) Brendan Galloway
The first of the “two diamonds.” Signed in the summer from MK Dons, Galloway would be another making his debut tonight.
CM) Ryan Ledson
The England Under 18’s captain has been talked up for a while now, and could finally make his senior bow in the dead rubber. The second of the supposed diamonds.
CM) Steven Pienaar
The South African may have to play in central midfield if Martinez’s comments are to be believed. He could also captain the side for the night.
LM) Bryan Oviedo
Oviedo continues his return from the horrific leg break he suffered last season with a run out at Goodison.
RM) Christian Atsu
The loanee has been struggling to get on the bench let alone near the starting XI, but will have a chance to prove himself here.
ST) Conor McAleny
The 22-year-old actually made his debut several years ago, but a broken leg has held him back. He is now fit and ready to see if he can fulfill the promise he once had .
ST) Arouna Kone
The Ivorian returns after being injured for over a year. He has likened this match to a second debut for the Toffees.