After the international break, Premier League football is back and it doesn’t get any easier for Everton. The Blues face off against Manchester United on Saturday and are looking to continue their fine form of late with another three points that could see them move into the top four, if other results go their way.
The Merseysiders standout qualities this season have come from the back, with a defence well in form and currently sitting as the sixth best back line in the league, having conceded 8 goals in 8 games. That is also a defence that has not occupied John Stones and Seamus Coleman in past weeks, with both on course to return to the side this weekend.
As well as them, Leighton Baines is nearing fitness and has been praised by Roberto Martinez over his current situation. He explained that the full-back could provide him with a welcome selection crisis. That could spell the end of first-team football for youngster Brendan Galloway, who has gripped his opportunity with both hands.
Up the other end of the pitch, both Romelu Lukaku and Ross Barkley have reached the form that is expected of them. Ross has reaped the rewards of his new lease of life at the club, not only has he begun to play with confidence, he is also staking his claim for a regular spot in the national team. The Wavertree born attacker scored against Lithuania on Monday.
Rom is also playing with confidence, having found the net seven times in ten appearances for the Blues this season. A goal in the Merseyside derby will have the Belgian motivated to increase his goal tally, and will be pivotal if Everton are to win.
Manchester United’s form this season had lead to them being considered contenders for the title, but they’re far from favourites when compared to their rivals.The Red Devils were dismantled by a ruthless Arsenal in their previous outing, in which a 20 minute demolition was enough to see them score three goals and win 3-0.
Although United’s players did not show up on that particular day, their quality cannot be underestimated. Their star man of late is no doubt Martial, the £36million man has solved the clubs problems up front, as Wayne Rooney continues to struggle for form. Martial has four goals in seven appearances while Wayne only has one Premier League goal this season. We all know that means he is likely to score against us come Saturday.
United have conceded an equal amount to the Blues, eight in the eight games that they have played, and have only had two games in which they have not been able to find the net. Everton have had three in their eight games for comparison.
What can be expected is two teams that are in similar form, and looking to push further up the table with a win this weekend. The clubs have had some incredible thrillers over the past five years, most notably games such as the Old Trafford 4-4, the 3-3 at Goodison and the Oviedo goal only two years ago.
Although their ambitions are different, both teams have a point to prove to the league. Judging by previous meetings, we could be in for an unpredictable game but what we know for certain is that the atmosphere will be tense, aggressive and loud. Just how it should be. Up the Toffees.
