We talked to the editor of Read Bournemouth, Jonny Gilder, to get a better idea of this afternoon’s opponents.
What do you make of Everton’s start to the season?
Everton have made an impressive start to the season and it’s nice to see the young talents in Ross Barkley, John Stones and Romelu Lukaku finally show their potential. The 4-0 demolition of Aston Villa and 6-2 thrashing of Sunderland have really shown that Everton mean business yet again this season after a disappointing campaign.
Who is Bournemouth’s current key player?
Matt Ritchie is our key player at the moment, taking into account the injuries we’ve had. There’s a reason why the likes of Man United and West Ham have been after the Scot. He’s got a mean shot and given time and space he can score some great goals and create many chances.
Predicted XI?
I don’t see a change from last weekends impressive performance at Swansea:
Federici, Francis, Cook, Distin, Daniels, Surman, Gosling, Ritchie, Arter, Stanislas, King
What should Everton expect to see from Bournemouth in the form of tactics?
Bournemouth love to pass the ball, similar to Everton really. We will seek to keep possession and build patient attacks. The pace of Josh King has allowed Bournemouth to have a get out clause when the passing play hasn’t worked as well. Knocking it over the defence to King could be key against Everton.
Who do you rate more, Roberto Martinez or Eddie Howe?
I have to say Eddie Howe, although I really highly rate Martinez. Howe has been brilliant for Bournemouth but hasn’t quite found the right formula this season after so many injuries. As for Martinez, he seems a genuine nice guy in the game and I like the way Everton play.
Who is the dangerman for the Cherries?
Apart from Matt Ritchie, King will be dangerous as will Stanislas. Gosling has proved to be dangerous so far this season with two goals arriving from midfield.
Finally, can we have a prediction for Saturday’s match?
2-1 to the Cherries. Goals from King and Ritchie.
