Everton may switch formation for Leeds opener

Everton may shift to a back three if Mykolenko cannot play against Leeds, altering Moyes’s plans for the season opener.

Vitalii Mykolenko injury could force Everton tactical switch at Leeds United

Vitalii Mykolenko left Everton's pre-season clash with Roma with an injury that could affect the season opener at Leeds United. Moyes said the severity was unclear, and Mykolenko walked off on the day but later left the stadium unaided. If he is unavailable, Everton may need to change their shape.

The club’s most likely replacement would be Adam Aznou, a highly regarded but inexperienced youngster who struggled after coming on against Roma and was later withdrawn for Seamus Coleman. Coleman’s fitness could offer another option if Mykolenko misses out. An alternative is to switch to a back three, a move that would solidify the central defense with Jake OBrien, Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski. This would allow Aznou to operate as a left wing-back, a role better suited to his attacking instincts while providing extra protection on that flank.

If the back three is chosen, Moyes might also consider Dwight McNeil dropping deeper on the left, freeing one of the midfield trio to sustain balance. A midfield set could comprise Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, James Garner and Idrissa Gueye, with Iliman Ndiaye or Carlos Alcaraz operating behind Beto in attack. Beto has the number nine shirt but has yet to deliver a sustained Premier League goal in pre-season. Harrison Armstrong and Nathan Patterson are also dealing with injuries that could influence selection for Leeds.

The potential shift to a back three signals Everton’s readiness to adapt rather than cling to a preferred system. Depth will be tested early, especially if Mykolenko’s recovery lags. Aznou’s emergence could be pivotal but also carries risk because he is untested at this level. Coleman offers experience but may not be best suited to a traditional left-back role if the back three is used.

The plan also hinges on how Moyes balances attack and defense. A three-man back line could protect the backline while allowing Aznou to contribute offensively, but it could limit Edwards pacing and require midfield partners to provide width. The fitness issues around Armstrong and Patterson heighten the need for flexible tactics and squad rotation as the new campaign begins. In short, Everton’s first test will reveal whether their depth can translate into steadiness under pressure.

Highlights

The season opener will show if Everton can convert depth into reliable performance.