Ronald Koeman has revealed that Everton are mulling over signing a new right-back to challenge Seamus Coleman.
The Republic of Ireland defender faces another fortnight on the sidelines with an ankle injury which ruled him out of the start of the Blues’ new campaign.
Tom Davies was deployed on the right-hand side of midfield as Koeman deployed a 3-5-2 formation during Everton’s pre-season games.
Coleman’s international team mate James McCarthy filled the position during last weekend’s opening Premier League draw with Tottenham.
And Koeman has hinted that he may dip into the market for another defender, having already secured the services of Ashley Williams.
He said: “What I like to have is, really, two players for each position in the team.
“We need to have that competition to get the best out of each player.”
“It is always better for every player. It is not about Seamus or a goalkeeper, everybody needs competition,” added Koeman.
“Of course, Seamus is the number-one in that position but you see injuries is part of football.
“We played with Tom Davies in that position in pre-season and that’s the reason why I put him in that position.
“James McCarthy and Tom Cleverley can also play out of that position and that is the best choice for the weekend.”