Everton 2026-27 season preview: Full-backs | My kingdom for a right-back #EFC

The most problematic position in Everton's team is the right-back spot, according to the 2026-27 Season Preview. The club has struggled to find a long-term solution to this issue, with Nathan Patterson being the only senior specialist right-back they have. Patterson, a Scotland international, has no long-term future at the club after failing to impress all three managers he has played under.

The club is desperate to replace Patterson but have had no luck so far, despite trying in the summer, winter, and this year's windows. Jake O'Brien has filled the role for 18 months, but it would be unfair to force him to continue. Merlin Rohl, who has had a productive pre-season, is the likely candidate for the Crystal Palace game.

However, his versatility may cause issues as he may feature more in positions other than right-back. The left side of the Everton team is also proving problematic, with Vitaly Mykolenko drawing criticism for his shaky pre-season performances. The club's failure to reinforce this position has made Mykolenko a lightning rod. The need to address these weaknesses is evident, as Everton's attacks broke down last season due to the lack of an overlapping full-back.

The pre-season performances of Adam Aznou, a 20-year-old Moroccan international, have been promising. He has not been in the senior team since moving from Bayern Munich but is now reportedly ready to be part of the first-team squad. If Everton manages to sign a right-back before the deadline, it would be a vindication of their strategy. Otherwise, it will be seen as a failure.