MR) Ross Barkley
Murphy: “He’s getting better every week I see him.”
Fair? Barkley needs to be put into a combined XI based on this season’s performance, although he’d be wasted out on the right in Murphy’s formation.
MC) Jordan Henderson
Murphy: “He’s super fit, quick, strong, can tackle and score a goal.”
Fair? The best central midfielder in either squad is Henderson. Our captain’s legs, passing and determination have been sorely missed in his absence through injury.
MC) James McCarthy
Murphy: “He will get more goals as he gets more experience, because he’s got the energy to get in the box.”
Fair? We don’t especially see McCarthy as a terrific improvement on Lucas or James Milner, and think when Emre Can reaches his potential he’ll be better than the lot – but due to his start to the season, it’s reasonable to put the Irishman in.
ML) Coutinho
Murphy: “So many times we’ve seen him try and grab the game by the scruff of the neck and make things happen.”
Fair? The easiest selection of all, although he’d be wasted in Murphy’s 4-4-2. Talent wise, Everton’s attacking midfielders apart from perhaps Barkley can’t get near him.
