Wolverhampton Wanderers make their long-awaited return to Premier League football on Boxing Day as they head away to Goodison Park to face Everton. The much-anticipated clash sees new manager Julen Lopetegui take to the touchline in the English top flight for the first time in his career.
Wolves head into the game at rock bottom of the league standings but a win would move them to within one point of Monday’s opposition, who sit in 17th. It is hoped the arrival of Lopetegui will revive a rather defeated Wanderers side which achieved just two wins in the opening 15 games of the campaign.
Albeit against lower-league opposition, some confidence can be taken from a 2-0 Carabao Cup win over Gillingham in midweek. Raul Jimenez has largely been in the headlines for the wrong reasons of late but the Mexican was able to grab a goal off the bench in what was Lopetegui’s first competitive fixture in charge. Rayan Ait-Nouri also scored late on.
Everton have looked solid defensively this term with just 17 conceded but just like the Wanderers, they have struggled to score enough goals. The Toffees, who have the equal-second-worst attacking record in the division alongside Nottingham Forest, with just 11 netted this season. Frank Lampard will be hoping for an improvement.
As is the nature of a game away unlikely to be an easy way for Lopetegui to start his life in the Premier League. With that in mind, here is the strong lineup we think the Spaniard will opt for - in a 4-3-3 formation.
1. GK: Jose Sa
Back from the World Cup and is almost guaranteed to start as undoubtedly the number one choice between the sticks.
2. LB: Hugo Bueno
Has made the left-back spot his own but will need to continue to impress as there is plenty of competition waiting in the wings.
3. CB: Nathan Collins
Only missed three games all season and they were when he was suspended. No sign that Lopetegui will change that.
4. CB: Max Kilman
Often the one to partner Collins and helped his side to a clean sheet midweek. Offers an aerial threat on set pieces.