This weekend Everton face a visit of Manchester City, a team whom they have had recent good form against especially at Goodison Park. Both teams go into the game on the back of resounding 3-0 wins and still unbeaten in the league, although only two game weeks have been played. Everton’s task does look very difficult as Man City have been really impressive early on in the season. Therefore Everton must perfect their tactics and formation to get the result they are after as well as needing their main men to perform to their maximum.
Firstly, it is imperative that the two centre halves of Phil Jagielka and John Stones produce a strong display similar to the performance at Southampton last weekend, especially as City look more dominant than ever in the attacking third. City have already demonstrated their attacking prowess by scoring six goals in two games so Jagielka and Stones must concentrate for the full ninety minutes and close the ball down quickly- so far city have scored two goals from corners and two from long-range efforts. If the two England centre-backs perform to level we all know they can then hopefully Everton can pick up all three points.
Additionally, James McCarthy must continue his usual box to box none stop style of play to break down City attacks early and help Everton put together the type of quick, incisive counter attacks that we saw on the south coast. McCarthy has shown in recent times that when he is on top of his game he really can be the difference, with the best example of this being during Everton’s 3-0 win over Manchester United last season.
Finally, Romelu Lukaku and Ross Barkley must both match their standards from last week for Everton to have any chance of winning this game as they will be the main outlets to relieve pressure off of the defence, but with City likely to be applying most of the pressure Barkley and Lukaku will revel in the space provided allowing them to run at the away side’s defence. Lukaku, in particular, must be clinical as chances will most probably be at a premium.
No matter how the players perform, Sunday’s game will be very difficult. But good performances from the highlighted players may just give Everton the edge in the pursuit of victory.
@rosscummins98
