Everton have turned to Merlin Rohl to plug the right-back hole after Seamus Coleman’s departure and Nathan Patterson’s probable exit. The German midfielder, now permanently signed from Freiburg for around £17million, lined up on the right flank in the opening two pre-season games, including Everton’s 0-0 draw at Bolton Wanderers on Saturday.

What’s driving the reshuffle?

David Moyes is still figuring out how best to use Rohl’s versatility. The 24-year-old has played across midfield and the wings, but now he’s being asked to adapt to the rigours of playing at right-back in the Premier League. Everton sit 13th in the Premier League table with 49 points from 38 games last season, and Moyes wants to squeeze every inch out of Rohl’s long stride and energy.

The shortage at right-back is acute. Coleman left on a free transfer, while Patterson is on World Cup break with Scotland and may not return if a lucrative offer arrives. That forced Moyes into a stopgap: Rohl over last season’s makeshift option, Jake O’Brien, who lined up in a back three against Bolton alongside James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite.

How is Rohl handling the switch?

Rohl is no stranger to defensive duties, but shifting to right-back is a fresh challenge. He admits the role demands quick mental adjustments. “It’s not completely new,” he said. “I always played all over the pitch. Right- and left-back, sometimes on the wing, No 6 or 8. It’s always about switching your mind a little bit on what you want to bring on the pitch.”

His first outing showed flashes of promise, including a burst forward and low cross that led to Thierno Barry’s disallowed goal. But both Rohl and O’Brien have clear shortcomings in the role. Rohl’s energy is undeniable, yet he can overcommit and leave gaps. O’Brien is more disciplined defensively but lacks the same attacking thrust.

What happens next?

Everton are still chasing a permanent right-back solution and remain confident of landing one. For now, Rohl and O’Brien are the stopgaps, with Rohl training repeatedly on the right side. Moyes is also using pre-season to test different shapes, including a back three with wing-backs Rohl and Adam Aznou.

Rohl knows the role is temporary. “If I had scored two goals today, everyone would say, ‘Maybe he’s a good right wing-back’,” he said. “It can change.”

League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 13th in Premier League, 49 pts, 13W-10D-15L from 38 games, recent form LLDDL.