---
title: "Maitland-Niles faces Everton selection threat after Chelsea defeat"
canonical: "https://readeverton.com/ainsley-maitland-niles-everton-selection-threat-merlin-rohl/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Gary Gowers"
section: "Everton News"
published: "2026-10-19T07:40:04Z"
modified: "2026-10-19T07:40:05Z"
---

# Maitland-Niles faces Everton selection threat after Chelsea defeat

**Ainsley Maitland-Niles could be facing fresh competition for his place at** [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/) **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The summer signing started at right-back on Saturday but was withdrawn after 55 minutes, shortly after Pedro Neto had given Chelsea the lead.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](https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/everton-issue-remain-after-david-34782656) 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.

***For all the latest Everton news, analysis and updates, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.***