Everton will be looking to find some form at the end of a disappointing season in a clash with European football candidates Southampton this weekend.
Roberto Martinez’ side has been distinctly lacking in their overachieving underdog status that has earned them a reputation as ‘the people’s club’. Boasting possibly the strongest looking Toffees lineup in recent history, the group have fallen well short of expected levels.
Throughout the squad individuals have performed impressively, but as a whole Everton has lacked a winning mentality and have let slip points in several key situations. Too often they have seen themselves lose or draw games from winning positions.
Southampton, on the other hand, have established themselves as top-half mainstays over the past few seasons. Having finished eighth, then seventh, in the last two campaigns and now on track to achieve the same again or better, the South Coast club are showing themselves as real contenders for continuous European qualification.
With Europa League still a real possibility, the Saints are not in a position to take their foot off the pedal. Three, and two points, behind Manchester United and West Ham United respectively – though having played a game more – Ronald Koeman’s team have to aim for maximum rewards from every match, with Everton one of the less threatening in terms of position that they face.
Key Battle – Leighton Baines vs Shane Long
Leighton Baines is regarded as one of the best left-backs in the league over recent times and although having had an injury interrupted past two years, he still can show flairs of inspiration that show why he earned such a reputation. Known more for his attacking presence through his expert and pinpoint distribution of the ball, the Englishman really adds a lot to the Toffees’ attack.
Not as defensively dominant, the Everton No.3 will have his hands full stifling the influence of Shane Long should they lineup on the same side of the park. Long has blistering pace and has demonstrated superb dribbling ability several times throughout the season.
The Republic of Ireland international returned to the Saints’ squad last week and was the best on the park, scoring a terrific goal and exerting great influence on the play. He may have the measure of Baines in this one and will certainly look to exploit the space in behind the fullback as he pushes forwards.
Team News
Martinez will have a tough time in this match with captain Phil Jagielka and Tom Cleverley both ruled out through injury, on top of James McCarthy’s mandatory suspension after being dismissed in the game against Crystal Palace. To add to his woes the Spanish manager is assessing the availability of Baines, Ross Barkley, Romelu Lukaku and Aaron Lennon, who could all potentially not be fit for selection.
Koeman will again be without Charlie Austin after the striker injured himself in last week’s warmup against Newcastle United. The manager will be pleased though with the return of midfield mainstay Steven Davis, however, who will drop from the last setup is unclear should he be inserted straight away again.
Head-to-Head
The Toffees hold a definite edge over the South Coast team having won 39 times in 77 meetings, while Southampton have only grabbed maximum points on 22 occasions with the remaining 16 as draws.
Previous Meeting
The last clash between these teams ended in a 3-0 victory for Everton at St. Mary’s Stadium, with a brace to Lukaku capped-off by a late goal from Barkley.
Prediction
With some high-profile names missing from the Everton team sheet already and with the potential for even more to be ruled out before kick-off, it seems that this game is Southampton’s to lose. The Toffees have nothing left to play for in the Premier League whilst the Saints are battling for qualification position.
Everton 1 Southampton 3
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