On Thursday, Everton will host Newcastle United at Goodison Park in a game with major significance at both ends of the Premier League standings.
Team Form
Everton
Everton recently played against Crystal Palace, ending in a goalless draw. While it was a welcome break from their recent losing streak, it wasn’t enough to prevent them from slipping into the relegation zone.
At the start of Sean Dyche’s tenure as manager, Everton showed much promise with three wins. However, they have now gone five games without a win, which is a cause for concern.
Everton is in 19th place and is set to play on Thursday. They will be happy to return to their home ground in Merseyside, especially after their latest failure to secure three points away in the capital city. This loss extended their winless streak on the road to 14 games.
Everton PL Form: D D L L D
Newcastle
The recent match between Newcastle and Spurs was unbelievable, with Newcastle scoring five goals in just 21 minutes. This left everyone watching the game in complete disbelief.
Despite suffering a bit of a setback in February, Eddie Howe’s side has regained their form and is likely to secure a top-four spot by the end of the season.
With six wins from their last seven games, they have moved six points clear of Tottenham and still have a game in hand. The only defeat they have suffered during this time was against Aston Villa in their last away game.
It’s worth noting that Newcastle has a pretty good record for away games, having not lost back-to-back away games in a year. However, despite having the best defensive record in the league, they have conceded in their last six away games.
Newcastle PL Form: W W W L W
Squad Report
Everton
Last weekend saw the long-awaited return of Dominic Calvert-Lewin to the starting lineup for Everton after a two-and-a-half-month absence.
Amadou Onana has missed the last two Everton matches due to an injury, but he hopes to return and feature in the centre of midfield.
Unfortunately, Mason Holgate will be unable to play due to a suspension following his red card late in the game during Everton’s 0-0 draw against Palace last Saturday.
Additionally, Seamus Coleman is expected to remain out of action for now.
Newcastle
Newcastle’s Fabian Schar may be in doubt for the upcoming game due to a hamstring injury he sustained during their impressive win over Tottenham last weekend. He will face a late fitness test to determine his availability.
Meanwhile, Allan Saint-Maximin is unlikely to feature in the upcoming fixture as it may come too soon for the Frenchman. Eddie Howe has hinted that he may not yet be fit enough to play.
Everton’s expected starting lineup:
Pickford; Patterson, Keane, Tarkowski, Mykolenko; Iwobi, Onana, Gueye, Doucoure, McNeil; Calvert-Lewin
Newcastle United’s expected starting lineup:
Pope; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Willock, Bruno Guimaraes, Longstaff; Murphy, Wilson, Joelinton
Head to Head
Everton has a good historical record against Newcastle United, having won 75 out of the 181 matches that have been played between the two teams. Newcastle United have recorded 70 victories against Everton.
Time, Date & Venue
Date: Thursday, April 27
Time: 07:45 pm, UK Time
Venue: Goodison Park, Liverpool
Prediction
Despite the return of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Everton have struggled in attack this season. This may prove to be a challenge when facing a strong Newcastle defence.
On the other hand, Newcastle may feel confident going into the match as they are currently in good form and will be eager to showcase their top-four credentials against an out-of-form Everton side.
