Ainsley Maitland-Niles could be facing fresh competition for his place at Everton after a difficult afternoon in the 2-0 defeat to Chelsea.
The summer signing started at right-back on Saturday but was withdrawn after 55 minutes, shortly after Pedro Neto had given Chelsea the lead. Jorrel Hato had escaped Maitland-Niles before supplying the cross which eventually led to Neto scoring just 44 seconds after the restart.
Maitland-Niles has produced some important attacking moments since his £4m move from Lyon, most notably his dramatic equaliser against Manchester United and an assist for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall at Hull City. However, the Liverpool Echo has now questioned whether his starting position is secure after highlighting defensive mistakes against United, Hull and Chelsea.
Merlin Rohl provides Everton competition
Merlin Rohl could provide the most immediate alternative. The German started further forward against Chelsea but moved to right-back when Tyrique George replaced Maitland-Niles, having already occupied the position during pre-season and Everton’s opening four matches of the campaign.
David Moyes also praised Rohl’s contribution after making that switch, saying he “probably did better” at right-back and highlighting two dangerous crosses he delivered during the second half.
That does not necessarily mean Maitland-Niles will lose his place. He remains Everton’s only recognised senior right-back and has started their past four Premier League games, but Rohl’s versatility gives Moyes a genuine alternative if he decides a change is required.
The timing adds another subplot, with Everton travelling to Arsenal on Saturday. Maitland-Niles joined the Gunners aged six and made 132 senior appearances before leaving permanently in 2023, meaning a return to his former club could now come with added competition for his starting place.
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