Everton are right back into Premier League action tomorrow, as they face Newcastle United in what has become a fiercely-contested battle of late.
Sparked by years of tension threatening to bubble over, Anthony Gordon’s acrimonious exit marked the catalyst that completely severed relations, and thus the last few matches between the two sides have been nasty, anxiety-inducing and well-fought.
It almost feels like a faux derby given the fact that the form book does seem to truly go out of the window, with that atmosphere only enhanced by the fact that the games between the two are almost always played at night.
However, with the visitors winless in the Premier League since mid-December, it is hard to discount how the two sides have been playing going into this one.
So, Sean Dyche must endeavour to do something different in order to try and actually spring a surprise against an Eddie Howe side who showcased a spirit in their last match that Everton have barely shown all season.
Sean Dyche needs to change something vs Newcastle United
There are a few key areas that the 52-year-old could seek to prioritise when looking for an area that he could change.
And whilst the backline remains relatively resolute, it is their forwards who are in desperate need of a revamp. Tired and aimless attacking has become oh-so predictable for every opposition outfit they face, with the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Jack Harrison and even Abdoulaye Doucoure all desperately out of form.
So, perhaps the latter could be afforded a much-needed break from the starting side, instead relying on him to make an impact later in the game.
In dropping the former Watford midfielder, it would certainly shock the Magpies, who would not be expecting such a pivotal figure to start on the bench.
Andre Gomes would be the natural player to replace him.
Andre Gomes could be the key for Everton
Although not nearly as physical as Doucoure, the former Barcelona maestro has shown that he boasts more than enough quality throughout his career, even if it has only come in waves.
That first campaign before joining permanently for £22m, where he starred on loan under Marco Silva’s guidance, saw a technically proficient superstar born on Merseyside.
Injuries, however, have not been kind to him since.
But he still has a quality that few others within Dyche’s squad boast: the ability to pick a pass.
After all, when compared to other midfielders across Europe, although his sample size is far smaller, he sits in the top 9% for attempted passes per 90, the top 4% for progressive passes per 90, and the top 8% for successful take-ons per 90, via FBref.
His presence just behind Beto or Calvert-Lewin could be integral in unlocking Newcastle United’s backline with a perfectly weighted long ball or a scything through pass.
At the very least Everton have to try something new, even if it means handing Gomes just his second start of 2024, and his first in the Premier League.