Gary O’Neil struck by suspension as £4.3m signing makes surprise start - Wolves predicted XI vs Everton

Wolverhampton Wanderers travel away to Everton on Wednesday night, eager to move back out of the relegation zone following last weekend’s disappointing 4-2 defeat to AFC Bournemouth.

The Old Gold had won two games on the trot but were humbled on Saturday as the Cherries, O’Neil’s old side, ran riot at Molineux. There’s an opportunity to bounce back at Goodison Park, though, with Wolves able to leapfrog the Toffees with a win under the lights.

It’s a good time to play Everton as they have won just one of their last seven Premier League matches, scoring merely three goals in that period. Sean Dyche have failed to hit the back of the net in each of their last four outings, too, making for grim watching.

O’Neil will have to make do without right-back Nelson Semedo this weekend as the Portuguese is suspended after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season. A change in formation could follow as O’Neil attempts to strike a balance and bounce back from the Bournemouth defeat.

With all of that in mind, here are the 11 Wolves players we reckon will start at Goodison.

Wolves predicted lineup vs Everton

GK - Jose Sa

The Portuguese has forced his way back as the first-choice goalkeeper ahead of summer signing Sam Johnstone, and rightfully so.

RWB - Pedro Lima

Lima is the future for Wolves at right-back, so it makes sense for the Brazilian to come in for the suspended Nelson Semedo.

CB - Santi Bueno

The Uruguayan has been in and out of the team at late but could return if O’Neil opts for a back three.

CB - Craig Dawson

Dawson has had a mixed start to the season but he remains a strong option, particularly with his experience and leadership.

CB - Toti Gomes

Toti has been such a useful option in defence, both at left-back and centre-back. The 25-year-old would move into the latter role if the central pairing is as predicted.

LWB - Rayan Ait-Nouri

Ait-Nouri typically plays better with a back three behind him as he has cover when bursting forward on the attack.

CM - Mario Lemina

The new skipper has played in an array of positions both this season and last but he’s probably best when sweeping in at the base of midfield.

CM - Joao Gomes

Gomes, effective with his break-up play, scored his second goal of the season against Fulham recently. There aren’t many Wanderers players who can match his competitiveness.

CM - Tommy Doyle

Doyle, signed for just £4.3million from Man City, could make a surprise start as he’s been superb when called upon. It may seem harsh on Andre, but Doyle so often makes a difference.

ST - Matheus Cunha

The man of the match away at Fulham with two goals and an assist, Cunha is in the form of his life. Wolves need to tie the Brazilian down to a new contract as soon as possible.

ST - Jorgen Strand Larsen

The Norwegian has made five goal contributions in his last four games and he’s proving to be a practical outlet up front.