Swansea are currently sitting in 17th place in the league table, a mere point above both Newcastle and the relegation zone. It has been a vexatious season for the South Wales club, with only five wins coming from their 22 league fixtures. Despite their struggles, new manager Francesco Guidolin will be looking to kick start his Swansea managerial career with an upset at Goodison Park. With this in mind, what players should Roberto Martinez and Everton keep an eye on?
Andre Ayew
Swansea’s Ghanaian forward is currently their leading goalscorer with seven league goals, and will be Swansea’s most dangerous asset. A gifted player whose name was made whilst plying his trade in the white of Marseille, Ayew has been the jewel in Swansea’s dilapidated crown this season. After turning down a tempting transfer fee from Sunderland for the former African Player of the Year last week, Swansea will be hoping their number 10 is firing on all cylinders against the Toffees.
Jefferson Montero
Last season, Montero terrorised Everton during the Swans’ visit to Goodison Park, and should certainly be earmarked as one man to watch closely this time around. Blessed with lightening pace, the Ecuadorian winger has failed to net this season so far, however that doesn’t mean he will be any less of a thorn in Everton’s side, especially considering his usual opponent Seamus Coleman is not around to keep him quiet.
Gylfi Sigurdsson
Signed in the summer of 2014, Gylfi Sigurdsson’s return to the Liberty Stadium has seen him shine in a number 10 role. The Icelandic midfielder’s return from Tottenham was applauded by Swansea supporters, a move in the right direction for the club in many people’s eyes. With exceptionally ball-playing ability, including being a dead ball specialist, Sigurdsson will no doubt be a threat throughout the fixture.
This doesn’t represent one of Everton’s most difficult fixtures to come in the following months, however Martinez’s men will have to remain focused and not become complacent to avoid handing Swansea a shock victory.
