The Neutral One: FA Cup Quarter Final Predictions

Everton vs Manchester City

Might as well get this one out of the way first because there’s only one way this is going. Everton would have struggled to beat Man City at the best of times but with injuries to Doucouré, Rodríguez and both of their first and second choice goalkeepers the task will be near impossible. Not to mention the fact Everton just lost their 7th home game of the season to Burnley. With a patched up side and an inexperienced goalkeeper against this well oiled Man City machine. I think it will be a comfortable win for Pep’s men. 

Prediction - Everton 0-3 Man City

Bournemouth vs Southampton

When the draw was made for this one most Southampton fans will have been ecstatic. However, their early season form has now completely deserted them and they have taken a nose dive down the table. A recent South Coast Derby loss to relegation threatened Brighton compounded their misery. As for Bournemouth, they’ve had a steady season since their return to the championship and are in the hunt for a play off spot. That said, they don’t look like a side who will comfortably secure a spot in the top 6 and will no doubt face a battle with the likes of Barnsley and Reading for the chance to return to the Premier League. Despite Southampton’s recent form, I still think they’ll be good enough to see off Bournemouth. But only just.

Prediction - Bournemouth 1-2 Southampton

Leicester vs Manchester Utd

This is the tie of the round as the Premier League’s 3rd and 2nd placed sides face off for a place in the Semi Finals. Leicester have done very well to cope with their recent injuries and maintain their push for the top four, which they capped off with a 5-0 thumping of Sheffield Utd last time out. Man Utd have got back to winning in ways in recent weeks after victories against West Ham and Man City in the Manchester Derby. Leicester have handled the losses of Maddison and Barnes brilliantly but you need your best players in games like this, which is why I think United will edge it.

Prediction: Leicester 0-1 Man Utd

Chelsea vs Sheffield Utd

Chelsea look a top side under Tuchel, more like the side that everyone expected them to be when the season started. The blues come into this off the back of a resounding 3-0 aggregate win against La Liga leaders Atlético Madrid and their confidence will be sky high. Contrast that with Premier League basement boys Sheffield Utd who are now facing certain relegation, have just lost their manager and followed that up by getting thumped 5-0 at Leicester. I expect Sheffield to react in some way and try to keep it tight and restrict Chelsea. However, Tuchel’s men will have too much for the blades in the end.

Prediction - Chelsea 2-0 Sheffield Utd 

Everton 1-2 Burnley: Player Ratings

 

Starting XI:

Jordan Pickford - 5

Pickford’s role in the game consisted of him picking the ball out of the net twice before going off injured at the end of the first half. He could do nothing to prevent either goal, both of which were fantastic strikes from Wood and McNeil. He then seemed to have a recurrence of the injury that kept him out last month and was replaced by Virginia.

Mason Holgate - 3

Holgate seems to have regressed at a rate of knots this season. He looked to have improved last season but this year he’s been slowly falling back down to the levels we saw in Marco Silva’s first season. It was a complete lottery when someone ran at Mason, sometimes he won the ball and other times he’s left for dead. Burnley should have had a clear penalty from his ridiculous flailing arm in the box, which I can’t believe wasn’t given by VAR. He otherwise spent the game putting dreadful crosses into the box, losing possession with woeful distribution or giving fouls away. I’m aware it’s not his natural position but he’s been even worse in the games at centre-back this season. Mina has to come back in for the next game with Godfrey moving to right-back.

Ben Godfrey - 6

Godfrey was alright in this one, again he couldn’t do anything for the goals which were brilliant strikes off the back of midfield errors. Made a great block in the first half and won plenty of headers when Burnley played long balls up the pitch. He also got a vital last-ditch flick on the ball to divert it away from Wood who would have surely tapped in from the cross had it not been for Godfrey’s intervention.

Michael Keane - 6.5 (MOTM)

Him and Godfrey were probably the only players to come out of today with any real dignity. I’d say Keane was probably Everton’s best player on the night, made some good tackles and interceptions in the second half as Burnley looked to counter. He also played some great forward passes into midfield and the strikers. He made an inch perfect pass in behind the Burnley defence to Coleman, only for the Irishman to put the ball straight on the head of a Burnley defender. Despite conceding two goals, the centre-backs were probably the best performers which speaks volumes for the rest of the team.

Lucas Digne - 4 

Lucas had very little impact on the game, whenever he popped up in a dangerous position his final ball let him down. He swung in one absolute peach of cross with his right foot that Calvert-Lewin really should have scored from, but other than that it was a disappointing display from the Frenchman. His corner deliveries once again were borderline amateur and when Sigurdsson & James are on the pitch the team really needed Digne to step up. It’s baffling to see a player who is absolutely lethal at crossing in play and from free kicks but struggles to beat the first man from corners time and time again.

Allan - 3 

This was probably Allan’s worst game in an Everton shirt so far. He was largely at fault for the second goal as he came rushing out at McNeil only for the Burnley wide man to skip past him and bend his shot into the top corner. It looked like the Burnley attackers felt they could beat him every time they ran at him, which is a far cry from the Allan we’ve seen for most of this season. He played one excellent ball to Calvert-Lewin on the outside of his boot but that aside his passing was sloppy and he gave the ball away more than he normally does. He’s been brilliant this season and I’m sure it was just one those days but he was still well below his own standards. 

André Gomes - 4

Another player who typified Everton’s blunt performance on the night, André looked to move the ball forward but never possessed the killer edge to create a good chance. Again, at times he looks to play in his own bubble and wants far too much time on the ball. If he wasn’t so slow he’d be a top class player, because he has the technical ability, but his complete lack of pace causes him real problems at times. With the current injuries in the squad, he’s probably going to get a decent run in the side but when he puts in performances like he has done over the last 3/4 games, he isn’t doing much to stake his claim to a first team place.

Tom Davies - 5 

Another midfielder who was partly to blame for a goal, this time it was Davies. He gave the ball away in his own half and Burnley punished him through Wood. My biggest criticism of Tom is that far to often he looks to earn fouls and free kicks rather than taking the ball, turning and driving at the opposition. In this case it came back to bite him and his mistake undid what was actually a bright start from Everton. In spite of his error he didn’t let it affect his game as Allan did. He provided a great cross to assist Calvert-Lewis’s goal to give the side a glimmer of hope. Tom set up a goal and cost us one, which I’d say cancel each other out, otherwise his performance was ok.

Alex Iwobi - 3

Yet again, one of Everton’s poorest performers tonight. Iwobi got his chance in his “natural position” as he lined up in the number 10 being Richarlison and DCL. However, he didn’t put in a nearly good enough performance to justify his social media ramblings in the days prior. Iwobi actually looked near and tidy on the ball when it was played in to him and he had to get away from the defender. But the pass always moved backwards or sideways, rarely forward to the dangerous areas of the pitch. Not to mention his end product, he must be one of the worst crossers of the ball in the Premier League, nearly every cross he puts in is too shallow or too far for anyone to reach. 

Richarlison - 4  

Richarlison’s only real impact on the game was in the first 10 minutes. He looked dangerous as he picked up pockets of space and drove at the Burnley back four. Had one decent chance before the Burnley goal as he stung the palms of Nick Pope, but after the visitors scored it completely took the wind out of both Richarlison and then entire team. From that point on the Brazilian had little to no impact on the game, gradually fading out of what was a very frustrating game.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin - 5 

Calvert-Lewin scores marginally higher than his strike partner here because of his goal. Unlike Richarlison he had the chances throughout the game but fluffed his lines on nearly every occasion bar his goal from Davies’s cross. Digne put an inch perfect cross on his head from 6 yards out and he got it all wrong, heading it in the wrong direction. A chance that if he’s scored at the start of the second half would have completely changed the dynamic of the game at 2-2. His first touch was the main reason he blew so many chances throughout the game, any time he received the ball in a dangerous area or just bounced off his foot and away from his control. He may have score a decent header but it doesn’t reflect his overall performance.

Subs:

João Virgínia - 6

A more than respectable debut in the Premier League for the Portuguese keeper. It always difficult for a keeper to come on mid game but Virgínia handled it pretty well. On a personal note for him he kept a clean sheet for the time he was on the pitch. Had one shaky moment when he came to punch the ball away but collided with Godfrey, ultimately he got away with it as Vydra couldn’t connect with the ball. He did also make a good save to his low left hand side after Godfrey had been left for dead in the box. If Olsen is not fit for Saturday’s game with Manchester City, then Virgínia will get a huge chance in an FA Cup quarter final.

Josh King - 4 

King’s stint on the pitch was far from impressive, was brought on to add some pace and threat in the box but ultimately did neither. Despite what was a pretty disappointing cameo, I still believe he deserves the chance to start. Iwobi has proven over the last few weeks that he doesn’t warrant a first team place and even if King turns out to be a disappointment, he at least needs the opportunity from the start. 

Seamus Coleman - 4 

A rather baffling substitution when we were losing the game to bring a right back on, Holgate was poor but at that point if you’re losing the game you bring on someone like Sigurdsson to craft an opening. Coleman did nothing in the game apart from disappoint from a decent crossing position played in to him by Keane. He also managed to pass a ball straight into touch in the first few minutes after coming on, which led me to then dash my TV remote across the living room.

Everton vs Burnley: Preview

 

On Saturday evening Everton welcome Burnley to Goodison Park as they look to bounce back from their 2-0 defeat away to Chelsea.

The loss in West London saw the blues drop to 6th place in the table. However, a win here would see them move back into 5th, ahead of West Ham who face a difficult trip to Old Trafford.

Everton have won three of their last five games coming into this one, whilst Burnley are without a win in five matches.

The toffees home form has been patchy at best this season but they come into this one having got a much needed 1-0 victory in their last home game against Southampton. 

If they are victorious against Burnley on Saturday, Everton will have won back to back home games for only the third time this season. 

Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Seamus Coleman, Yerry Mina and Tom Davies are all fit again after recent injury issues. 

However, James Rodríguez is still unavailable and Abdoulaye Doucouré will also be absent after sustaining a fracture in his foot which is set to leave him sidelined for 8-10 weeks. 

Gylfi Sigurdsson is also a doubt after a slight ankle problem against Chelsea.

Ancelotti’s Everton have looked at their best when they are the side with less of the ball, however they won’t be able to play defensive against Sean Dyche’s men.

Burnley will be physical, and look to sit deep. Meaning Everton will likely see a lot of the ball and they’re going to have to really take the game to the clarets.

It’s surely going be attritional game and most likely not one for the neutral. If Sigurdsson plays I’d edge Everton to have the creativity needed to break down a solid Burnley side, if not they may struggle.

Prediction - Everton 1-0 Burnley

Last 5 Meetings (PL):

• Burnley 1-1 Everton

• Everton 1-0 Burnley

• Burnley 1-0 Everton

• Everton 2-0 Burnley 

• Burnley 1-5 Everton

Chelsea 2-0 Everton: Player Ratings

Starting XI:

Jordan Pickford - 6

Pickford’s performance tonight was a difficult one to rate, he made some fantastic saves throughout the game. Most notably to keep out Alonso’s effort in the first half as well as a brilliant double save to deny Werner and then Kanté. However, he was also at fault for the second goal where he came flying off his line and conceded a penalty after colliding with Havertz. He may have been at fault for us going 2-0 down, however he was also the reason we didn’t lose by 3 or 4 goals. Ultimately, Everton could have played till next Monday and wouldn’t have scored so Pickford’s error wouldn’t have made much difference.

Mason Holgate - 3

Games like this against the top sides in the league are where Mason seems to get found out, he was rash in his defending throughout and looked very uncomfortable at right-back. Was largely to blame for the first goal as he came charging out of position only to meander his way back into the defensive line by which time Hudson-Odoi had played Alonso in behind. It was a passage that summed up Mason Holgate, in both his erratic decision making and then sheer lack of awareness to consider the gaping hole he had left in the defence behind him. Looks decent on the ball when he keeps it simple and plays it backwards or sideways, but whenever he looks to play forward he almost always gives it away.

Michael Keane - 6

Keane appeared to struggle against Werner and Havertz throughout the game however they also didn’t cause him any serious problems either. He never allowed the Chelsea strikers any major opportunities in the game but you could see that their pace made him uncomfortable, often scrambling to get back. Overall he defended diligently throughout the game, also made an important tackle to divert Alonso’s shot at the end of the first half that Pickford saved. Couldn’t do much about either of the goals.

Ben Godfrey - 5

Godfrey also seemed to struggle at times tonight. He couldn’t do anything about the own goal, he was left scrambling to cover after Holgate and Iwobi allowed the ball through in the first place. It was also fizzed at him by Havertz so he had no time to react. He switched off in the lead up to the penalty but it looked as though his pace had got him out of trouble, only for Pickford to fly out and concede the spot kick anyway. Misjudged the flight of the ball on a couple of occasions, one of which led to Pickford having to make a smart save to stop Werner making it 3-0. He’s been an absolute rock at the back for Everton this season and no doubt will continue to be, but tonight was just one of those difficult nights.

Alex Iwobi - 3

Played a somewhat unfamiliar role as wing-back and it showed. Was massively at fault for the first goal, along with Holgate, as he was completely unaware that Alonso had peeled away into the open space and failed to track his man. Was otherwise anonymous in the game and was hooked by Ancelotti at the start of the second half. After a couple of poor performances when given the chance to start it feels as though Iwobi’s place will be on the bench for the remainder of the season.

Lucas Digne - 5

Digne offered very little going forward, perhaps largely by design given the way Everton tried to play. But ultimately when a player has the creative ability that Digne has, you expect more from them, his final ball was pretty poor all night and he played some really sloppy passes to gift possession back to Chelsea. Defensively he was fine, kept tabs on Reece James at Wing-Back and allowed him few opportunities to cross the ball. His most notable moment was a free kick that hit the wall in the first half.

Allan - 7 (MOTM)

For me Allan was Everton’s best performer on the night, he broke play up well and really helped bring a stability in possession at times when the ball seemed to be bouncing around midfield with no one really able to get it under control. He was also looking to find those long balls over the top to Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison, didn’t always come off for him but the idea was right. Went about his business quietly but effectively, which made him stand out in a game where the rest of team struggled to make much of an impact.

André Gomes - 4

Another of Everton’s poorest players on the night along with Holgate and Iwobi, I’d rate him marginally higher based on the fact he didn’t directly contribute to a goal but it was still a disappointing display from the Portuguese. His passing was pretty good, something he struggled with against West Brom on Thursday. However, his retention when the ball was at his feet was very poor, he always wanted more time than Chelsea were willing to allow him, which led to him losing possession. He wasn’t much better in defence either, the likes Hudson-Odoi, Kovacic and Werner were all to agile on the ball for him to cope with. He looks so flat footed at times, which means that anyone with a turn of pace and good control can ghost past him with ease.

Gylfi Sigurdsson - 5

Sigurdsson just didn’t see enough of the ball. He actually showed some nice touches when in possession but there just wasn’t enough of it. He played a nice one two in the second half, as he flicked the ball round the corner before playing it to Richarlison, but the Brazilian missed the target. A decent moment but it was all he offered throughout the game, which isn’t going to be enough when your playing a side like Chelsea. 

Richarlison - 5

Like Sigurdsson, Richarlison didn’t have much of an impact in the game. His big chance came from Gylfi’s ball in the second half but he got it all wrong. He didn’t compose himself or take a touch which resulted in him snatching at the shot. The only real chance they had in the entire match. Everton looked unlikely to create anything for most of the game but that was the chance if they were going to get anything from Chelsea.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin - 5

Probably the most anonymous of the front three, as I genuinely cannot recall a single moment of note from Calvert-Lewin throughout the entire game. He won some decent headers in the air but they never went to an Everton shirt. Otherwise, he had no opportunities on goal and did very little in possession.

Subs:

Tom Davies - 6

Tom looked bright when he came on, his introduction allowed the change of shape back to the diamond in midfield that we’ve become accustomed to seeing over recent weeks. He played slightly higher than usual with Allan back but he was always looking to move the ball forward, more so than most of the starting midfielders did. It was a good cameo off the bench and I’d firmly expect him to be back in the starting lineup for the Burnley game.

Josh King - 5

Was subbed on for Sigurdsson with 20 minutes to go and struggled to make much of an impact. Probed the Chelsea defence when he could but by that point the game was gone and you got the sense the players knew that too, so it was difficult game for him to come into. With Iwobi’s poor form of late, he must get a chance from the start next weekend.

Bernard - 5

Came on for Gomes with for the last 15 minutes or so but he added some pace in midfield, something that André is sorely lacking. He always adds a bit of zip and energy, even if he doesn’t have much of an impact in the grand scheme of things.

Chelsea vs Everton: Preview

 

Everton will play their third away game in four matches when they travel to Stamford Bridge on Monday night, looking to make it four wins in a row for the third time this season.

The toffees come into this one off the back of their third successive victory, a 1-0 triumph away to West Bromwich Albion on Thursday night. It was a record equaling result as Everton made it nine games unbeaten away from home in the Premier League for only the second time in the clubs history.

They will be looking to make it ten away games unbeaten when they face Chelsea who currently sit 4th in the Premier League, one point above Everton in 5th.

The blues will know that a victory on Monday night will see them leapfrog Thomas Tuchel’s side and move into the top four.

It will be a difficult task for Ancelotti’s side at Stamford Bridge though, as Chelsea are unbeaten in all competitions since Thomas Tuchel was appointed.

Chelsea have lost just two games at home this season, the first against reigning champions Liverpool and the second against the runaway leaders Manchester City. So it will no doubt be a challenge for the toffees to walk away with three points.

That said, Everton are currently unbeaten in all of their away games against “big six” opposition this season. Having won against both Liverpool and Tottenham as well as a last minute draw with Manchester United.

Everton also beat Chelsea in the reverse fixture at Goodison Park in December, claiming a 1-0 victory thanks to a Gylfi Sigurdsson penalty.

Thomas Tuchel has got his side playing a very efficient style of football, they are solid at the back and clinical upfront.

Chelsea play a possession based game, which will suit the way Everton like to set up as they’ll be able to sit in deep and hit them on the counter attack through Richarlison and Calvert-Lewin who will most likely line up as split strikers, ahead of a diamond in midfield.

Everton will again be waiting on the fitness of Tom Davies, Seamus Coleman and James Rodríguez who have all missed the victories over Southampton and West Brom. 

With no official word from the club, fans will most likely be waiting until the lineup is announced before they have any news.

This game will see two solid defences and two very tactically astute managers go head to head, which I believe could see them cancel each other out.

Prediction - Chelsea 0-0 Everton

Last 5 Meetings (PL):

• Everton 1-0 Chelsea

• Chelsea 4-0 Everton

• Everton 3-1 Chelsea

• Everton 2-0 Chelsea 

• Chelsea 0-0 Everton

West Brom 0-1 Everton: Player Ratings

 

Starting XI:

Jordan Pickford - 7

Pickford’s most notable moment in this game came in the opening three minutes as he made a fabulous left handed save to deny Diagne. From that moment on Pickford was relatively untroubled, as West Brom struggled to find the target. One of Pickford’s big issues over the last couple of seasons has been losing focus in games where he has little to do which has led to him making an error in the moment he’s needed. However, it’s something he seems to be getting out of his system in the last few games. Didn’t have a lot to do once again but was there when needed.

Mason Holgate - 6

It was another particularly dogged, hardworking display from Holgate. He’s not great going forward, which is frustrating at times as he had chances to put a ball into the box and just made a mess of the cross or didn’t attempt it at all. That said he’s a centre back and isn’t there for his attacking exploits, he defended well all game and won his individual battles with Phillips. Distribution let him down at times again when he tried to be more intricate then he needed to, but he generally kept it simple, so a solid performance overall.

Michael Keane - 7

Keane was locked in a physical battle with Diagne for the majority of the game, with the Senegalese proving to be a difficult player to handle. The baggies striker seemed to get the better of him in a lot of the aerial duels early on, but Keane then seemed to drop back and allow him the space before then moving in to make the tackle. He adapted his game part way through and it made a difference in limiting the threat Diagne posed throughout the second half. He lost his man right at the end as West Brom thought they had got the equaliser but ultimately it was offside, so I won’t hold that against him.

Ben Godfrey - 7.5

Godfrey just edges out his centre back partner here as I think he made some vital blocks and recovery tackles at the back when we looked vulnerable. With Diagne almost exclusively going up against Keane, Godfrey didn’t really have a lot to do when the ball was played long. However, there were several occasions in the second half when West Brom looked to have superior numbers, only for Godfrey to win the ball back with some excellent, aggressive tackles and blocks. He doesn’t put a foot wrong and I’d say he was the best of the back four.

Lucas Digne - 6

Digne’s performance was very similar to Holgate’s in many ways, he was solid defensively but often wasteful in the final third when it came to his delivery. However, I’d rate his performance below Holgate’s because we expect so much more of him. When it came to putting the ball into the box he just didn’t deliver and his set pieces were uncharacteristically poor, often failing to beat the first man. I was relieved to see Sigurdsson heading over to take the corner in the lead up to the goal and ultimately it paid dividends as I don’t think Digne would have put in as good a cross. Ultimately though, he played his part in yet another clean sheet so a 6/10 seems about right.

Abdoulaye Doucouré - 5

I think the midfield was Everton’s weak point with just the two of them against West Brom’s midfield three. Doucouré tried as he always does to provide energy and fashion openings but with the lack of cover, he could never commit too far upfield. He also gave the ball away too easily on a number of occasions with some sloppy passing. He’s played an incredible amount of football this season and has been so important for this team. It may be an element of fatigue that’s finally caught up with him. Ancelotti brought him off for Sigurdsson after an hour and it seemed the right call to give him a rest.

André Gomes - 5

Off of the first 50-55 minutes Gomes would have been heading for, at the very most, a 3/10. His passing was incredibly sloppy so often trying to play unnecessary balls and gifting the ball back to West Brom. He wanted too much time in possession and when he wasn’t giving the ball away he was passing backwards. However, he’s never been a player well suited to a midfield two, so when Allan was introduced and he switched to a three in midfield he was much improved. His passing sharpened up and he looked much stronger on the ball to retain possession. He made 16 ball recoveries in the game, granted that most of them came off the back of his own poor passes but it was a decent defensive performance nonetheless.

Alex Iwobi - 4

This genuinely may even be a generous score for Iwobi, if we hadn’t won the game it may well have been a lot harsher but it truly was a really poor performance from Alex in this one. He seems to struggle more the less games he plays as whenever he has started recently he just looks miles off the pace. He spent the majority of this game running down blind alleys, always in two minds as to what he was going to do with the ball and once he reached the final third his end product was incredibly disappointing. He either didn’t beat the first man, blasted it over everyone’s head or he just didn’t put the cross in at all. It wasn’t a memorable night for Iwobi who was taken off in favour of Allan just shy of the hour mark.

Bernard  - 6

The biggest surprise when the lineup was announced was the inclusion of Bernard on the left side of midfield. Making his first Premier League start since New Years Day and it was lively performance from him in this one. Had some nice moments and injected some pace to progress up the pitch when it was needed. Didn’t have a huge impact but a solid return to the team.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin - 6

Struggled to get into the game by a large, he couldn’t find much joy in the air against Bartley and had very little service otherwise, so he wasn’t able to make much of an impact. Had one great chance to make it 1-0 before half time as the ball fell to him in the box but it was a poor finish one on one with the goalkeeper. Often had to resort to dropping deep to get a touch on the ball as he received very little otherwise.

Richarlison - 8 (MOTM)

Always looked to be the biggest threat on goal for this Everton side. Whilst Calvert-Lewin tussled in the air to little effect, Richarlison used his body to hold off the West Brom centre backs and get in behind their defence. Got back well and helped out defensively as he always does and once again stepped up to score the match winning goal. He has to play up front every game from now on because he’s wasted on the left-wing, he looks such so much more of a threat when he plays as a striker.

Subs: 

 Allan - 7

The first of two game changing substitutions by Ancelotti. Allan came into the midfield and instantly the side looked far more organised. He stabilised the side in a spell that West Brom were looking threatening and from the point on we started to get out foot on the ball and take control of the game. Was also very good defensively after going 1-0 up to see the game out.

Gylfi Sigurdsson - 7

The second of Ancelotti’s substitutions and it instantly payed dividends with Sigurdsson setting up the winner within a minute of coming on. With the likes of Digne, Iwobi & Bernard always missing the final ball, the game was crying out for a quality delivery and Sigurdsson provided it. It was the Icelandic Midfielders ninth assist of the campaign and it was another that ultimately set up the match winning goal.

Josh King - 5

Came on in place of Bernard for the final 10 minutes and did a decent enough job. The team were already looking to hold on to the 1-0 by that point which meant that he didn’t have any real chances to get on the ball. Went on a decent run down the right hand side but ultimately only had Calvert-Lewin in the middle amongst a crowd of West Brom defenders.

West Brom vs Everton: Starting XI Prediction

Formation: 4-3-3

Jordan Pickford (GK) - It’s a simple decision to keep Jordan between the sticks, two good performances against Liverpool and Southampton. Hopefully he has another comfortable display in this one.

Seamus Coleman (RB) - I’m gambling that Seamus Coleman will be passed fit for this one as I believe Holgate will play against Chelsea on Monday night. He’s a better attacking outlet and will allow us to throw more at West Brom.

Ben Godfrey (CB) - An absolute no-brainer, Godfrey has cemented himself in this side and will no doubt be tasked with handling the likes of Gallagher, Diagne & Perreira, who can all be dangerous on their day.

Michael Keane (CB) - Another easy decision is Michael Keane’s place in the Everton back four. Diagne is a strong, physical player with good aerial prowess so I expect Keane to go up against him where hopefully he can come out on top.

Lucas Digne (LB) - He will need to get up that left-side frequently when we are attacking to provide one of his trademark deliveries if we are to break down what will be a very resolute West Brom defence.

Abdoulaye Doucouré (CM) - Wasn’t great in Monday’s win over Southampton but he’s still a mainstay of this Everton team. His drive in midfield should hopefully allow the blues to break West Brom down. If he tightens up his passing, I’m sure we’ll see him back to his best.

Tom Davies (CM) - Another player who I’m hoping will be fit for this one as I expect Allan to be rotated after only recently returning from injury. He will provide a vital stability and balance to the side which will allow the likes of Digne and Doucouré to commit themselves higher up the pitch. If he’s not available then I’d expect Gomes or Allan to feature here.

Alex Iwobi (RM) - Moving away from the three central midfielders we’ve seen in recent games, I believe bringing Iwobi in will give us a more direct option as well a greater threat out wide. He’s not had many chances from the start recently so I think he’ll get an opportunity here. 

James Rodríguez (CAM) - Yet another of Everton’s potential casualty list, if James is fit for this one he should play in the number 10 position. It will allow him more space in the middle of the park to get on the ball and find passing lanes to his attackers.

Richarlison (LM) - After scoring five goals in his last five games, Richarlison is Everton’s man in form. Scored the winner against Southampton on Monday and will no doubt be one of the most potent threats to the West Brom goal.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin (ST) - A relatively quite game by way of chances for DCL against Southampton but he still worked incredibly hard. If he can win his aerial battle with the physical West Brom centre-backs it will set Everton on their way to recording a third win in a row.

West Brom vs Everton: Preview

Thursday night will see Everton travel to the Hawthorns to take on 19th placed West Bromwich Albion as they look to make it three wins in a row.

Ancelotti’s men are coming off the back of two moral boosting wins against Southampton and Liverpool, keeping back to back clean sheets for only the second time this season.

Those results have seen the toffees shoot back into contention for the Champions League places, now only two points outside the top 4. 

A win for Everton in this one will move them into fourth place ahead of West Ham, Chelsea and Liverpool. And after results tonight they’ll have the chance to move within 5 points of second placed Manchester United with a game in hand.

It’s safe to say it’s a must-win game if the toffees are to maintain their European ambitions this season.

Former Everton manager Sam Allardyce will be in the opposing dugout and will no doubt be looking to get one over them on Thursday night.

Everton won the reverse fixture in September, beating Slaven Bilić’s Albion 5-2 at Goodison Park. However, I expect a much more difficult game against Allardyce’s low block.

After what was a pretty poor start as baggies boss, Big Sam’s side look to have turned a corner after claiming 5 points from their last 3 games. Not a staggering return by any means but signs that they’re moving in the right direction.

Every game is like a final for West Brom now and Everton are going to have to match their intensity if they are to avoid an upset. 

Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that James Rodríguez, Tom Davies & Seamus Coleman will undergo late fitness tests to determine if they can feature in this game.

If they’re available it will be a big boost for Everton, particularly James whose creativity will no doubt be vital for breaking down what will be a well drilled West Brom team.

Ultimately though, Everton have got more than enough quality to dispatch this West Brom side and, providing they remain focused,  I believe they will claim the three points here. 

Prediction: West Brom 0-2 Everton

Last 5 Meetings (PL):

• Everton 5-2 West Brom

• Everton 1-1 West Brom

• West Brom 0-0 Everton

• Everton 3-0 West Brom 

• West Brom 1-2 Everton

Everton 1-0 Southampton: Player Ratings

Starting XI:

Jordan Pickford - 8

A relatively quiet night for Pickford by a large, Southampton only had one shot on target all night but it fell right at the end of the game and he made a vital save to keep us ahead. His kicking was superb all game, helped the team play out from the back with some great passes. Flapped at a couple of crosses at the end but a good performance overall.

Mason Holgate - 7

Coleman’s “light” injury meant Holgate would start at right back and it was a solid performance from him in this one. Defensively he was sound, kept Redmond quiet all night and won his aerial duels. He also earned several fouls that gave us the chance to put some dangerous free kicks into the box. His distribution wasn’t great and he strayed offside in the lead up to Keane’s disallowed goal when he really didn’t need to. Ultimately, he did what was required of him in a defensive capacity even if he did leave a bit to be desired in an attacking sense. 

Ben Godfrey - 7

Another Everton player who put in a solid performance. Tidied up at the back well, passing was good, won everything in the air and could have even had a goal if he managed to get a better connection on his shot from Keane’s knockdown. Had a scare when he got the wrong side of Adam’s who went down in the penalty box but VAR and the referee rightfully saw nothing wrong with it.

Michael Keane - 7.5

Would have had a goal if not for the offside against Holgate. He defended diligently throughout and actually looked to be our biggest goal threat throughout the game. He had a few dangerous moments from set pieces, had a glancing header fall just wide in the second half and headed a dangerous ball back across which Godfrey ultimately put wide. Kept his composure at the end as Southampton looked to build pressure, won all of his defensive headers in the last 10-15 minutes.

Lucas Digne - 7

A decent defensive performance on the whole, though he did get pulled out of position for Djenepo’s chance that very nearly earned Southampton a point at the death. Wasn’t quite as threatening as he usually is going forward which seemed to limit our chances in the final third, particularly without James. He put a great cross in for Keane’s disallowed goal though.

Abdoulaye Doucouré - 6

This wasn’t one of Doucoure’s best games, he started in very similar fashion to the derby, some poor touches and misplaced passes to surrender possession cheaply. The difference was that he gradually improved on Saturday, which he didn’t really do in this game. That said his energy was valued as always and he put himself about defensively, particularly in the latter stages as we looked to hold on to the 1-0.

Allan - 7

A solid return for Allan after two and a half months out with a hamstring injury. He lost possession easily on a couple of occasions but otherwise it was a sound performance from the Brazilian. He anchored the midfield well, and made a nuisance of himself in defence to win the ball back. A positive sign of things to come from Allan, once he’s back to full fitness. Not too mention his skinhead and predators combo was a highlight of the night.

André Gomes - 8.5 (MOTM)

André was my man of the match tonight. He won all of his battles in the midfield both in possession and defensively. He kept the ball brilliantly, he was strong and held off opponents well. His passing range is superb, I’m more confident in him finding a 35-yard pass than I am of him playing a 5-yard pass at times. It was another encouraging performance from Gomes, hopefully he’s starting to find his way back to his best.

Gylfi Sigurdsson - 7

For large parts of the game Sigurdsson struggled to make an impact. He couldn’t get himself on the ball much, particularly in the second half as the game seemed to pass him by. That said, he provided the killer pass for Richarlison to open the scoring which ultimately won the game. Put in some threatening set pieces as well.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin - 7

Much like the rest of the front three, opportunities were at a premium for DCL, his threat was often limited to set pieces but he never had any significant goal scoring chances in the game. Hold up play was spot on as usual and he was a monster in the air. Salisu did not fancy the tussle with him at all and was hooked by Hasenhüttl after an hour. Had a hand in the goal as it was his header to flick the ball on to Sigurdsson that crated the chance for Richarlison. 

Richarlison  - 8

Scored the match winning goal and he took it brilliantly. Timed his run to perfection and showed great composure to take the ball round Forster before slotting in from a tight angle. Had a decent chance from a free kick that he probably should have tried to head but otherwise another good performance from Richarlison. He looks a player high on confidence at the moment and has regained his goal scoring touch.

Subs: 

Alex Iwobi  - N/A

Josh King - N/A

Everton vs Southampton: Starting XI Prediction

Formation: 4-3-3

Jordan Pickford (GK) - After a really encouraging performance in the Merseyside derby last weekend, it’s now about consistency for Jordan Pickford. He needs to build on performances like this and cut out the mistakes that have cost us this season. He’s nailed down the number one spot since returning from his injury so he’ll start here.

Seamus Coleman (RB) - Another player who’s been heavily criticised that put in a great performance on Saturday. I’ve been hesitant when Coleman has played against the likes of West Ham, Newcastle and Fulham as he’s often left us exposed at right-back given the way he likes to get forward. But I’m gonna go with him here, hoping he too can build on his previous performance.

Ben Godfrey (CB) - Starting to get a run in his more natural position at centre back and he looks more and more comfortable with every game. He’s really started to settle into this Everton side after getting a consistent run in one position. His pace at the back is always an asset and if the likes of Redmond and Djenepo play for Southampton it will be vital once again.

Michael Keane (CB) - Keane was brilliant against Liverpool, he really looked back to his best and let’s hope that continues on Monday night. He’s a real threat in the opposition box and his aerial ability will be a big boost in our own box as well.

Lucas Digne (LB) - This should be a game where Digne can get forward and find a lot of joy. The midfielders in the side should be able to cover for him in the event of a counter attack. But his ability going forward to create chances is so important for us.

Tom Davies (CM) - Tom has been in very good form of late and his performance at Anfield typified that. He’s doing all the basics right now, nothing flashy he just does his job. It is so important for this side to have an anchor in midfield to move the ball and provide cover on the turnover. 

Allan (CM) - Allan has been a part of the matchday squad for two weeks now and is yet to feature. I think that we will finally see him return in this one, he’s such an important player for us because of his tenacity in midfield. With Davies occupying a deeper role it will allow him to play higher, meaning he can put pressure on Southampton’s midfield in more dangerous areas.

Abdoulaye Doucouré (CM) - There are probably none more grateful for a week off than Doucouré, it was another tireless display against Liverpool at the weekend and I expect him to continue here. He’s a machine in the middle of the park and his power will no doubt cause Southampton problems.

James Rodríguez (RW) - Overall he had a very quiet game against Liverpool, but he popped up in the moment that mattered. This is a game where he will have more room to operate, even though I don’t expect Everton to go full tilt at Southampton, James will see a lot more of the ball in this one than he did in the derby. He’ll certainly be a key component in creating opportunities in the game with the way he drifts in from the right wing and picks up pockets of space.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin (ST) - He had a a big impact off the bench at Anfield, he was dominant in the air and won the match clinching penalty. No doubt he’ll come back into the starting XI here, he’ll be up against a strong opponent in Jannik Vestergaard but I’m sure he will relish the battle with him. Hopefully he can get himself back amongst the goals. 

Richarlison (LW) - One of the most difficult tasks when picking a starting XI is where to play Richarlison. So much of the season we’ve seen him struggle on the left wing, but since he’s had a spell up front he’s looked back to his best. Ultimately, he can’t replicate what Calvert-Lewin gives us up top, I expect him to move back on to the left in this one, where hopefully he can continue his form and look to stretch Southampton.

Everton vs Southampton: Preview

On Monday night Everton host Southampton as they look to achieve back to back victories in the Premier League for the first time since their triumphs over Arsenal and Sheffield United in December.

The Blues come into this one off the back of a historic win at Anfield last Saturday as they claimed their first victory away to Liverpool since 1999. It was their first win over their neighbours in any meeting since 2010.

Southampton are the most out of form side in the Premier League and are currently suffering heavily from injuries. So Everton should see this as a real opportunity to get back on track in the race for Europe this season. 

It’s a chance to build some much needed consistency that the side have been lacking over the last month or two. 

On too many occasions this season we’ve seen this team lose at home to weaker opposition, with Newcastle and Fulham being the latest to walk away from Goodison Park with three points.

I expect Everton to sit back somewhat and allow Southampton possession, then to hit on the counter and use the likes of James Rodríguez and Richarlison to create opportunities.

Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Allan are ‘definitely’ fit to start Monday’s clash with Southampton. 

The pair returned from injury in the Merseyside Derby on the weekend. Calvert-Lewin came off the bench for the final 30 minutes, whilst Allan was an unused substitute.

Yerry Mina is still unavailable. The manager revealing that the Colombian will be absent for at least two weeks.

Ancelotti has got the best out of these players against sides who look to control possession, as it allows the team to sit deep and play on the break.

Everton have struggled of late in games where they must take control of the game, often lacking any real cutting edge. However, Southampton’s possession based style should play right into their hands. 

I’d expect the midfield to have big role in the game, the turnover of possession from them will be crucial to getting the creative players on the ball. 

Ultimately, Everton’s quality in the final third should cause a lot of problems for an injury hit Southampton side, where the likes of Calvert-Lewin will find some real joy. 

Prediction - Everton 2-1 Southampton

Last 5 Meetings (PL):

• Southampton 2-0 Everton

• Everton 1-1 Southampton

• Southampton 1-2 Everton

• Southampton 2-1 Everton 

• Everton 2-1 Southampton

Liverpool 0-2 Everton: Player Ratings

Starting XI:

Jordan Pickford - 9

This was easily one of Jordan Pickford’s best performances in an Everton shirt. Exactly what we want to see from our goalkeeper, he was composed at the back and made some important saves when we needed him. He made two brilliant saves in each half to deny Henderson and Salah to secure a clean sheet. I said in the preview that this seemed a game where Pickford could put right some of his previous derby errors and he most certainly did that.

Mason Holgate - 8

I, like many others, have been critical of Holgate in recent weeks but he was back to his best in this one. Didn’t give Mané a sniff all game, he also kept his discipline and composure which has been one of his major issues of late. He was calm at the back and dealt with everything that came at him. He now needs to put in performances like this on a more regular basis.

Michael Keane - 9

The best of the back line in a game where they were all more or less faultless. I said before the game that the low block would allow Michael Keane to get back to his best and that’s exactly what he was. Strong and commanding, won everything in the air and on the ground, his recovery tackle on Mané in the second half was brilliant. He’s incredibly unlucky to just miss out on my Man of the Match.

Ben Godfrey - 8

Another great display from one of Everton’s most consistent players this season, always a physical presence and proved to be great in the air on a number of occasions to head the ball away from danger. He lost Mané once or twice at the start of the second half but overall another commanding performance from Godfrey. He also made an absolutely thunderous slide tackle in the second half on Shaqiri which encapsulated exactly what he’s all about.

Seamus Coleman - 8

I didn’t expect Coleman to play this game but he did and he proved exactly why the manager was right to pick him. He occupied a right-wing-back role and was tireless in his efforts both defensively and offensively. Didn’t look out of place at all when defending against Mané or Robertson. Had a header in the first half that he really should have scored to put us two goals up going into half-time. Nevertheless it was exactly the kind of performance we want to see from the captain and you can see just how much it meant to him to finally break the Anfield hoodoo.

Lucas Digne - 8

Not much else to say here other than it was another high quality display from one of the best left-backs in the league. Digne kept Salah quiet for the majority of the game and did well to cope with Alexander-Arnold’s overlapping runs down Everton’s left side. Put in an absolute beauty of a cross for Coleman’s header that deserved a goal in itself.

Tom Davies - 8

The resurgence of Tom Davies continues as he put in another great performance here. For the first time in his career so far Tom Davies went to Anfield and played the game rather than the occasion. Too times in the past we’ve seen Davies get caught up in the emotion of the derby and make rash decisions. The lack of fans in the ground no doubt helped him but, irrespective of that, he was yet another Everton player who put in a calm and composed performance. He also provided some much needed tenacity in the midfield to win the ball back. Played a pinpoint pass to Richarlison in the lead up to the penalty as well. 

Abdoulaye Doucouré - 7

Doucouré had a very shaky start to this game, his touch let him down on a number of occasions and he misplaced several passes that put us under pressure. However, he tightened up his passing in the second half and improved as the game went on. The energy he provided in the midfield was important to putting the Liverpool midfield under pressure and helping the team win the ball back. Ultimately, it won’t go down as one of his best games, but he certainly had an influence, as he always does.

André Gomes - 6

It was a mixed display from André in this one as he often kept the ball well and helped the team progress through the gears and up the pitch. However, he got caught on a number of occasions where he simply wanted to much time on the ball that Liverpool weren’t willing to allow him. It led to him giving away a number of fouls before ultimately being booked by referee Chris Kavanagh. At the risk of receiving a second yellow, Ancelotti hooked the Portuguese midfield after an hour.

James Rodríguez - 8

James’ performance was a difficult one to rate, it’s not really his type of game as we were looking to sit deep for the majority of the match. This does often mean he can’t impact the game in the way he normally would. Ultimately, though he showed his quality in the one chance he had, playing a perfectly weighted ball though to Richarlison for the first goal. He was also vigilant in defence and got stuck in where he could.

Richarlison - 9.5 (MOTM)

As far as I’m concerned Richarlison was the match winner. He took his goal brilliantly and the fact it was so early in the game gave us something to hold onto. It allowed the team to sit back and soak up Liverpool’s pressure before hitting them on the break. Richarlison terrorised the reds young centre back pairing for the entire game, he held the ball up and stretched their back 4 with some great runs in behind. He also played a huge role in the second goal as well, turning away from Phillips before playing an inch perfect pass to Calvert-Lewin to earn the penalty. He definitely looks back to his best of late and he’s my man of the match. 

Subs:

Gylfi Sigurdsson - 8

Came on for the last half an hour in place of Gomes. Kept things neat and tidy, retained possession well and was disciplined in defence to help the side keep their shape. It was a solid display from Gylfi but then he steps up with an ice cool moment to slot past Alisson from the penalty spot. He took one step and just rolled it past the keeper into the bottom left corner. It was a composed penalty in what was a high pressure moment. Ultimately, it made what could have been a very nervous final 10 minutes a comfortable task for the blues to see out the game.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin - 8

Another player who came on for the last half an hour and had a big impact on the game. After taking the lead, there were doubts as to whether DCL would be introduced at all but Ancelotti decided to bring him on alongside Richarlison and it paid dividends. He absolutely dominated the aerial battle with Kabak and Phillips from the minute he stepped on the pitch, serving as a great outlet when the ball was played long. Then to cap it off he charged upfield to get on the end of Richarlison’s pass before being brought down by Alexander-Arnold to earn the penalty that put Everton two goals to the good.

Alex Iwobi - N/A

Liverpool vs Everton: Starting XI Prediction

Formation: 4-3-3

Jordan Pickford (GK) - Probably one of the most contentious choices in this starting XI, with the majority of Evertonians being pretty evenly split between him and Robin Olsen. Though, given his recent return to the starting lineup (all be it in not especially convincing fashion) and Olsen’s tricky spell between the sticks that saw him concede 9 goals in three games. I’d expect Pickford to keep his place in this one. It’s a game that he should really have a point to prove considering the events of the last derby game where he didn’t exactly cover himself in glory. 

Mason Holgate (RB) - Another of the potentially controversial selections in this side, with many fans suggesting the Seamus Coleman could start this game. Holgate has certainly struggled of late, he has looked increasingly uncomfortable at right back which of course isn’t  his natural position. However, I’m going to stick with him in this one because I believe that, despite his frailties as a right back and occasional issues with temperament, he will make the team a more solid defensive unit in the low block we will no doubt look to play. A role that is less suited to the more attack minded Coleman.

Ben Godfrey (CB) - A permanent fixture of the Everton starting XI now, Godfrey has to be a part of this side whether it’s in either fullback position or in the centre of defence. Given Mina’s absence I think Godfrey will move into his place, there is an argument to suggest the Holgate could play centre back and Godfrey at right back but I’m going to go with Godfrey here because he is simply a more solid defender and I have no issues with him starting in the middle on Saturday. His pace will no doubt be key to keeping the likes of Mané and Salah quiet.

Michael Keane (CB) - He’s our first choice centre half, he’s definitely going to play. Suited more to a low block so I think we’ll see the best of him in this game. He’s had a couple of pretty disappointing displays over the last month but he’s still had a brilliant season this year and has cemented himself in our back line. Scored against Liverpool in October and will no doubt be a threat from set pieces.

Lucas Digne (LB) - One of the best left-backs in the Premier League and will get to test himself against one of his closest competitors in Andy Robertson. His crossing ability and creativity will again be vital if we are to get anything from this game. He got an Assist for Calvert-Lewin’s equaliser in October and will need to serve up more of the same this weekend.

Tom Davies (CM) - If you’d have told me two months ago that I’d be predicting Tom Davies to start away at Anfield when Everton have a near fully fit squad available I’d have laughed you out of the room. But, Davies has earned his place in the absence of Allan, and since that day he hasn’t looked back. He certainly hasn’t been perfect but he’s been exactly what we needed him to be, calm and solid sitting in front of the back four to provide some defensive solidity. Let’s hope for more of the same.

Allan (CM) - Set to return after two months out with a hamstring injury, the Brazilian will be a welcome sight back in that Everton midfield. With Tom Davies occupying the defensive midfield role, this could free up Allan to play slightly higher where he can use his tenacity and energy to pressure the Liverpool midfield higher up the pitch.

Abdoulaye Doucoure (CM) - Probably the player who will prove most important in this game is Abdoulaye Doucoure, his pace and power will be absolutely vital to the way the side transitions from defence to attack. It will be his responsibility to get up and support the attacks of the front three in his typical box to box role. If he isn’t able to link up with the front 3, we won’t cause Liverpool many problems at all but if he can then we’ll certainly be a threat on the break.

James Rodríguez (RW) - James is always a difficult player to consider when picking a starting XI, on the one hand he does have a tendency to switch off and vacate his defensive responsibilities but on the other he just has so much quality on the ball that he can create a goal out of nowhere. I’m going to say he starts though as I believe we’ve got enough defensive minded players on the pitch to compensate for the occasions he may leave us exposed. Because he is such a creative outlet for us that he just absolutely has to play.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin (ST) - DCL goes straight back in, absolutely no doubts about it. If he’s fit, he starts. Our best goal scorer by a mile, he’s got that clinical edge that a lot of our players seem to struggle with, he only needs one chance to score a goal. And in a game where chances on goal will most likely be at a premium, he will need to bring that clinical edge he’s shown this season.

Richarlison (LW) - After playing up front for the last two games in the absence of DCL, I’m going to move Richarlison back out to the wing. He’s struggled for a large part of the season but looks to be slowly finding his way back to his best, the goals he’s scored against Tottenham and Manchester City will hopefully give him the boost in confidence he needs to kick on and get back to the high standards we know he can produce. He’ll certainly need to reach them if we’re to get a result at Anfield.

Liverpool vs Everton: Preview

This Saturday Everton travel to Anfield, once again hoping to end their wretched run of results away to their local rivals, having not won across Stanley Park for 21 years.

Now, what can the Blues do to try and claim their first victory away to Liverpool since Kevin Campbell’s strike in that 1-0 victory all the way back in 1999?

For the majority of this season, Everton have played for points not plaudits. Ancelotti has built a resilience and strong defensive unit amongst this Everton team that has made them so difficult to break down. 

However, they’ve also retained a clinical edge up top to make the most of the limited chances they have and secure vital results. 

This is thanks greatly in part to the form of striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, whose current 18 goal campaign is the best of his career to date.

Ancelotti has confirmed that Calvert-Lewin should be fit to start after missing Everton’s last two home defeats to Fulham (0-2) and Manchester City (1-3). 

The manager has also confirmed that Allan, who hasn’t played since the 2-0 victory over Leicester in mid-December, is also in contention to start. 

Yerry Mina will miss out however, after picking up an injury in Wednesday’s defeat to run away leaders Manchester City.

Nonetheless, the return of these two will be a huge boost to the side. Calvert-Lewin provides a huge goal threat that side lack when he isn’t there, whilst Allan will return with some much needed energy and tenacity in the midfield.

Everton will no doubt set up in a low block and hit Liverpool on the counter as they so often have in games against opposition that will look to control the ball. Especially given the way Liverpool have struggled against sides who play a low block this season, Everton will no doubt look to exploit this as the likes of Burnley & Brighton have. 

The team will have to keep their shape and defensive discipline for the entire 90 minutes if they are to keep Liverpool out. 

The pace of Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin on the counter attack will be vital as will the explosive running of Abdoulaye Doucoure from midfield to transition from defence to attack. 

Everton will have to get the balance right if they are to leave Anfield with the 3 points and it’s a challenge they’ll certainly have to be up for to avoid a third defeat in a row.

Prediction - Liverpool 1-1 Everton 

Last 5 Meetings (PL):

• Everton 2-2 Liverpool

• Everton 0-0 Liverpool

• Liverpool 5-2 Everton

• Everton 0-0 Liverpool

• Liverpool 1-0 Everton