Everton takes on an in-form Newcastle United side in a must-win game for the Toffees.
Frank Lampard’s blues will be praying to get a result in the bag, with fears of relegation increasing day by day.
A tale of two clubs going in the opposite direction, can the Toffees redeem themselves and turn the tide?
The battle of the Mindset
Everton is a club starved of confidence. The club is in complete disarray over the ever-growing threat of relegation and is crying out for a result. The Toffees have suffered 5 losses in their last 6 games and need to turn that corner sooner rather than later.
If there was ever a time for Frank Lampard to get his boys in blue raring and ready to go, now is that time. Frank Lampard must show the Everton faithful his resilience, as should the rest of the players, and grind out a result.
Comparatively, Eddie Howe’s Newcastle side come into this match sky-high in confidence. With the Magpies unbeaten in 8 (before losing to Chelsea) as well as securing a 3-1 win last time over Everton, the Toon will be hoping to do the double over the Toffees.
But Newcastle’s team look slightly diminished with a few of their key players out injured. Two of Newcastle’s main men, Joelinton and Shelvey, are rumoured to be missing this Thursday’s clash. With the two players both contributing to Newcastle’s revitalised season, now could be the time for Everton to pounce on the injury-stricken Newcastle.
With a rivalry seemingly born out of nothing, there’s a bit of pride on the line for both sets of fans. Newcastle beat the blues handsomely last time out, so it’s time for Everton to step up and get a result.
Fix the Defence
If there’s one thing worth reiterating, it’s that Everton’s defence is the main contributor to our dismal season.
It’s hard to pick out a single player at the back who’s had an average game, never mind a good game in the last 8 matches.
Implosion at the back time and again against Wolves last Sunday showcased how “Championship level” our defence has become.
And the Championship is where we’ll be heading if Lampard does not find a way to tighten up the back four or five.
Players to Watch
Demarai Gray
A relatively poor comeback performance last week shouldn’t stop fans from recognising Demarai Gray’s talent.
The Birmingham born winger should look to capitalise on Newcastle’s second in command full back, Manquillo, who is currently filling in for the leading man, Kieran Trippier. With Trippier still out injured, the Everton faithful will hopefully be treated to a stand-out performance by the number 11.
Chris Wood
the Kiwi is a devastating force in the air and up against our current defence, looks to be a formidable threat.
The ex-Burnley man could be the danger man that hurts us when it matters.
With only 1 goal to his name so far for the Toon, Newcastle’s number 20 will undoubtedly be looking to get his tally up.
Final Thoughts
This game represents a big moment for both Everton and Frank Lampard. After another dismal display against Wolves on Sunday, it all points to Lampard’s ability to motivate his team to get something from this match.
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