The State of Play
Enduring a daunting stretch with no victories in their last five matches across all competitions, Sean Dyche’s squad now faces its most challenging period since the initial three fixtures this season. Their situation is further complicated by their ten-point deduction, once again putting them in the precarious position of avoiding the relegation zone.
In their recent outing, Everton grappled to a 0-0 draw in the FA Cup against Crystal Palace. The match was marked by Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s harsh sending off, a setback that was exacerbated by the noticeable absence of Idrissa Gueye and Abdoulaye Doucoure. This collective struggle underscores the team’s current challenges and heightens the urgency for a turnaround in their fortunes.
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Unai Emery’s squad is currently enjoying a remarkable run of form, with just one defeat in their last 13 games across all competitions. Aston Villa’s noteworthy victories over formidable opponents like Manchester City and Arsenal have propelled them to the status of this season’s surprise package.
In their recent FA Cup clash, Villa successfully advanced to the next round through a hard-fought victory against Championship side Middlesbrough. Despite not delivering their finest performance, Emery’s men once again demonstrated their ability to grind out results against resilient opposition, solidifying their reputation as a determined and formidable side.
Team News
Sean Dyche has affirmed that Abdoulaye Doucoure has rejoined training this week, marking his anticipated return for The Toffees. The influential midfielder’s presence is expected to bolster the team’s performance.
Although Dwight McNeil is highly likely to be unavailable for the upcoming weekend, the injury that initially seemed serious has remarkably “settled down really quick” according to Dyche. McNeil suffered this setback during the FA Cup match against Crystal Palace last week.
In his pre-match press conference, Unai Emery shared positive news about the return of both Pau Torres and Youri Tielemans to first-team training this week. Their availability could be a valuable asset for the trip to Goodison Park.
While goalkeeper Robin Olsen is showing signs of improvement, this weekend might come a bit too soon for the Swede to make a return to the squad. Additionally, left-back Lucas Digne remains unavailable due to injury, leaving a gap to be filled in the defensive lineup.
Expected Line-ups
Everton: Pickford; Patterson, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko; Garner, Onana, Doucoure, Garner, Harrison; Calvert-Lewin
Aston Villa: Martinez; Konsa, Carlos, Lenglet, Moreno; Kamara, Luiz; Bailey, McGinn, Ramsey; Watkins
What they Said
Sean Dyche on the threat of relegation:
“Ever since the 10-point [deduction], we just parked it and thought ‘let’s just crack on’. We’ll just play hard and see where it takes us.”
Unai Emery on whether there might be any signings in January:
“It is difficult. We are not being very focused in the transfer window because we are now second in the table. We are recovering some players who were out for the season until now. I am very happy now with the players. The squad is progressing good and the commitment is very good. We are going to face three competitions and we need players to be ready and have good performances. We have the players here.”
When and How to Watch
This match will be televised live on Sky Sports, and can be streamed on Sky Go.
Prediction
The contrasting form of the two teams adds an intriguing dynamic to the storyline, with Aston Villa’s outstanding season positioning them as clear favourites. While The Toffees have shown improved defensive resilience under Sean Dyche’s management, the prospect of facing Villa’s formidable quality presents a formidable challenge, with an away win expected.
