Relegation threatened Everton welcome Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday. The Toffees know they need a result here if they are to keep up in the English top flight. They currently sit 18th in the table, 2 points adrift of safety. Meanwhile, Chelsea will look to get back to winning ways following their 1-1 draw at Old Trafford against Manchester United.
Everton have picked just two wins in their last 7 league games. At this speed, with only 6 games left the Toffees are staring at the Championship. New manager Frank Lampard has not turned the fortunes as well since he has only won 3 games out of 12 in charge of the club. Nonetheless, Lampard will be hoping that Everton turns up well against his former club Chelsea. The manager will be looking for the motivation with which Everton toppled Manchester United in their recent fixture.
Everton Premier League form: L L W D L
Chelsea have had some mixed results in their recent games. The Blues have time and time again failed to secure their third place in the league. Moreover, Chelsea have won only two of their last five league outings. The Blues are lacking clinical finishing as was evident against United where they scored just a goal from their 21 attempts. Chelsea will have to shrug off their struggles in front of the goal or else Everton can prove to be dangerous with their chances.
Chelsea Premier League form: L W L W D
Everton vs Chelsea: Team News
The Toffees’ team news
Lampard has almost a playing eleven out injured or doubtful. Andros Townsend, Cenk Tosun, and Nathan Patterson are out for the season after sustaining ligament tears. Ben Godfrey joins them on the sidelines after picking up a knock in the Merseyside derby. Donny van de Beek and Andre Gomes have been ruled out for this game as well.
Youngster Tom Davies was back in Everton training ahead of this fixture, but should not be available against Chelsea considering his match fitness. However, some positive news for the Toffees as Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Yerry Mina return following their minor knocks. But Lampard could stick to the line-up from the Liverpool game given the injury situation.
Everton possible starting line-up:
Pickford; Coleman, Holgate, Keane, Mykolenko; Doucoure, Allan, Iwobi; Gray, Richarlison, Godfrey
The Blues’ team news
Thomas Tuchel welcomed Reece James and Antonio Rudiger mid-week against United. Reece James’ comeback was quite a vital one as the right-back was arguably the best player on the pitch. However, Andreas Christensen missed the clash through illness and should face a late fitness test.
Callum Hudson-Odoi, Mateo Kovacic and former Everton man Ross Barkley should miss the trip for Chelsea. Tuchel could hand out-of-form striker Lukaku a start here with the hope that he finally puts the ball in the back of the net.
Chelsea possible starting line-up:
Mendy; Azpilicueta, Silva, Rudiger, Reece James, Jorginho, Kante, Alonso; Mount, Lukaku, Werner
Our Prediction
Everton 0-2 Chelsea
Considering their recent results, neither Everton look as if they will score against Chelsea, nor the Blues are in for a goal-fest. However, we expect Chelsea to just get over the line with a couple of strikes. But Everton will definitely make it difficult for the Londoners, as they did it for Liverpool. Thomas Tuchel looked frustrated over the wastefulness of the Blues in their last game and will demand an improved display from his players.
Follow us on Twitter for more football-related news.
