Everton predicted XI v Chelsea: Is it time for George over Grealish?

David Moyes has some significant selection decisions to make when Everton face Chelsea at lunchtime.

Jarrad Branthwaite is a fitness doubt after picking up a problem against Hull City, while Vitalii Mykolenko has a chance of returning after missing last weekend’s 2-2 draw.

But perhaps the most intriguing decision comes further forward. Moyes revealed on Friday that Tyrique George is pushing Jack Grealish for his place, raising the question of whether the former Chelsea winger could be handed an opportunity against his old club.

We think this could be the weekend Moyes makes that change.

Is it time for George over Grealish?

George replacing Grealish is the standout call in our predicted XI. Moyes spoke positively about the 20-year-old in Friday’s pre-match press conference, saying he is “knocking on the door” after improving following a relatively slow start to the season.

The Everton manager also made clear that Grealish is aware of the competition for his place, while George’s ability to operate on either flank gives Moyes another option.

Grealish has remained a regular starter, so there is no suggestion that Moyes has indicated he will drop the England international. We predict that Saturday could provide an opportunity for George, particularly against the club where he came through the academy.

Brennan Johnson has started Everton’s past four Premier League games on the opposite flank, making the Grealish-George decision the more interesting one.

Mykolenko returns, but Branthwaite misses out

There is also uncertainty in Everton’s defence. Mykolenko has responded well to treatment, and Moyes says the Ukraine international has a chance of facing Chelsea. We are backing him to pass his fitness test and return at left-back.

Branthwaite’s situation is less certain after he picked up a problem against Hull. Our prediction has Michael Keane retaining his place alongside captain James Tarkowski rather than Everton taking a risk with Branthwaite.

Christian Norgaard is another option following his return to the squad, but Moyes indicated on Friday that the midfielder remains some way from being ready to start. That should leave James Garner and Harrison Armstrong together in midfield.

Thierno Barry keeps his place up front. Moyes acknowledged his frustration at some of the striker’s missed chances but stressed the importance of Barry continuing to get into goalscoring positions.

The biggest call, though, is George. Moyes has publicly acknowledged the pressure he is putting on Grealish, and we think Saturday could be the moment he is rewarded with a start.

Full broadcast and kick-off information is available in our Everton v Chelsea match guide.

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