In a quest for redemption following a heartbreaking EFL Cup exit, Everton heads south to face Tottenham Hotspur in a pivotal Premier League encounter on Saturday.
Match Preview
Tottenham enters the match on the back of a commanding 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, securing consecutive wins in the top flight.
However, Everton’s dreams of EFL Cup glory were shattered in a penalty-shootout loss to Fulham in the quarter-finals.
Tottenham showcased their dominance in the last outing, defeating Nottingham Forest 2-0 at the City Ground.
Dejan Kulusevski’s precise cross set up Richarlison’s goal, and a defensive error allowed Kulusevski to capitalize, securing victory despite Yves Bissouma’s needless red card.
Currently in fifth place, Tottenham aims to break into the Champions League spots with a win against Everton, as Manchester City competes in the Club World Cup.
The hosts have been prolific at home, scoring in 17 consecutive Premier League matches at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Everton, in 16th place, boasts a remarkable December, winning all four Premier League games. The Toffees defeated Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United, and Chelsea, maintaining a perfect record with both points and clean sheets.
However, Everton faces a quick turnaround from their EFL Cup disappointment, where they lost in a penalty shootout against Fulham. Despite the setback, their impressive form provides a seven-point buffer above the relegation zone.
Tottenham holds a recent unbeaten record against Everton, securing five consecutive victories, including two dominant wins at home with an aggregate score of 7-0. Everton last triumphed at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in September 2020.
Team News:
Tottenham faces the absence of Bissouma due to suspension, along with Destiny Udogie.
Long-term injuries continue to sideline key players, including Alfie Whiteman, Rodrigo Bentancur, Ashley Phillips, James Maddison, Ivan Perisic, Manor Solomon, Micky van de Ven, and Ryan Sessegnon. Giovani Lo Celso is uncertain with a knock.
For Everton, Dele Alli remains sidelined with a groin problem, while Andre Gomes and Abdoulaye Doucoure are doubtful.
Vitaliy Mykolenko is in a similar situation, and the fitness of Ashley Young and Seamus Coleman will be assessed closer to the match.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Tottenham Hotspur: (4-2-3-1)
Vicario;
Porro, Romero, Davies, Royal;
Hojbjerg, Sarr;
Johnson, Kulusevski, Son;
Richarlison
Everton: (4-5-1)
Pickford;
Patterson, Keane, Tarkowski, Branthwaite;
Harrison, Onana, Garner, Gueye, McNeil;
Beto
Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 Everton
Despite Everton’s recent resurgence, Tottenham’s attacking prowess may prove too much for a fatigued Toffees side. While Everton’s form has been impressive, Tottenham’s strength in attack could secure them a victory in this encounter.