In an upcoming Premier League clash, Everton and Bournemouth, both struggling in the early stages of the 2023-24 season, are set to face off at Goodison Park on Saturday.
With just one win each in their seven games so far, both teams are desperate to improve their form.
Match Preview
Everton’s recent success was short-lived as they suffered a 2-1 defeat against Luton Town in their previous match. On the other hand, Bournemouth faced a 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Arsenal.
Everton had a taste of victory before the Luton Town game, securing a 3-1 win against Brentford, followed by a spectacular 2-1 triumph over Aston Villa in the EFL Cup third round.
However, their defensive vulnerabilities were exposed once again as Luton Town took advantage of their shortcomings.
Currently, Everton sits in 16th place in the standings, with only goal difference keeping them above Luton Town and Burnley.
A poor result in this match could potentially push them into the relegation zone.
Bournemouth, known for their attractive style of play under Andoni Iraola, have struggled to find success in the 2023-24 season.
Their only wins so far came in the EFL Cup against Swansea City and Stoke City. However, they suffered a heavy defeat against Arsenal in their last outing.
Bournemouth currently finds themselves in 19th place, without a single win in the Premier League campaign. They have conceded at least two goals in each of their away games so far this season.
Despite their recent struggles, Bournemouth has had the upper hand over Everton in their previous meetings.
The Toffees have failed to score more than one goal in their last five encounters with the Cherries.
Both teams have had inconsistent form in the Premier League:
Everton: L L D L W L
Bournemouth: L L D D L L
Team news
Everton will still be without Dele Alli, Seamus Coleman, and Andre Gomes due to injuries.
Idrissa Gueye was withdrawn in the last match but it was a tactical decision. Jack Harrison, on loan from Leeds United, could make his Premier League debut for Everton.
Nathan Patterson may also feature in the starting lineup.
Bournemouth, on the other hand, has several players sidelined due to injuries, including Tyler Adams, Emiliano Marcondes, Alex Scott, Lloyd Kelly, Ryan Fredericks, and Chris Mepham.
Possible starting lineups
Everton:
Pickford;
Patterson, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko;
Harrison, Onana, Doucoure, McNeil;
Beto, Calvert-Lewin
Bournemouth:
Neto;
Aarons, Zabarnyi, Senesi, Kerkez;
Cook, Rothwell;
Tavernier, Billing, Sinisterra;
Solanke
Prediction:
This match is expected to be a closely contested battle between two struggling teams.
Everton has shown some improvement in their attacking play, but their defensive weaknesses persist.
Bournemouth, despite their winless streak, is likely to put up a fight and earn a hard-fought point.
The outcome of the match may depend on Everton’s ability to convert their chances.
- We predict: Everton 1-1 Bournemouth