In an exciting Premier League clash, Everton will face off against Aston Villa at Goodison Park. Everton, currently struggling at the bottom of the table, will be looking to avoid their sixth consecutive winless game in all competitions.
On the other hand, Aston Villa, title contenders, will aim to continue their impressive form and secure three points.
Match Preview:
Everton’s recent cup tie against Crystal Palace ended in a goalless draw, with little goalmouth action to report.
However, the match was marred by a controversial red card given to Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Fortunately for Everton, the red card has been overturned on appeal, providing a boost to the team’s morale.
Despite their recent struggles, Everton managed to break their four-game losing streak with the draw against Palace. They will now look to build on this result and climb out of the relegation zone.
Aston Villa, meanwhile, started the year with a 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough in the FA Cup.
Although they had a tough time breaking down their opponents, a late deflected strike secured their spot in the next round.
Currently sitting in second place in the Premier League, Aston Villa is just three points behind league leaders Liverpool. With a game in hand, victory against Everton could potentially see them take over the top spot.
Team News:
Everton will be without Dwight McNeil, who suffered an ankle injury in the previous match. However, manager Sean Dyche has confirmed that the injury is not serious.
Ashley Young, Idrissa Gueye, and Dele Alli are also unavailable due to injury and other commitments.
On a positive note, Abdoulaye Doucoure has returned to training and could be available for selection. The potential absence of McNeil may deter any plans of selling Arnaut Danjuma in the transfer window.
Aston Villa has only lost Bertrand Traore to the Africa Cup of Nations, while Emiliano Buendia and Tyrone Mings remain sidelined with knee injuries.
Lucas Digne is also unavailable due to a thigh problem. However, Pau Torres and Youri Tielemans have resumed training and are expected to be fit for the match.
Possible Lineups:
Everton: (4-5-1)
Pickford;
Coleman, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko;
Harrison, Doucoure, Onana, Garner, Danjuma;
Calvert-Lewin
Aston Villa: (4-4-2)
Martinez;
Cash, Konsa, Torres, Moreno;
McGinn, Luiz, Kamara, Bailey;
Diaby, Watkins
Prediction: Everton 1-2 Aston Villa
Villa has been in excellent form, winning their last five matches against Everton. They possess a strong attacking lineup and will be determined to maintain their winning streak.
While a nine-goal victory to top the table seems unlikely, Aston Villa has the quality to secure three points against Everton.