With a trip to Manchester United just around the corner, Everton will have it all to do if they are to finally claim that elusive first Premier League win of 2024.
It has not been an easy season for Sean Dyche’s men, who have had to tackle takeover uncertainty, points deductions, appeals and woeful form, and yet still somehow remain adrift of the relegation zone.
However, their recent winless run is indicative of a side ready to slip back into the bottom three, given their last league win came nearly three months ago now.
Something has got to change, and with a clear preference for being on the road, Saturday could mark that opportunity.
Especially with the hosts set to be without a star man…
Which Manchester United star is set to be injured?
Well, there are plenty of Manchester United players set to be out injured this weekend, but there is one standout who Sean Dyche will likely not want to have to face: Rasmus Hojlund.
After all, the £64m man had seemingly found his feet in the Premier League after early ridicule, having scored seven in his last six matches before injury.
However, his inability to play in the last three matches is indicative of something more serious than a minor knock, and his latest admission only reinforces that.
After all, when asked by fans if he had been in training, he revealed that he still had not been deemed fit enough. Then quizzed about whether he would make it to feature against Everton, he simply replied: ‘We’ll see’.
Other absentees for Erik ten Hag should include Lisandro Martinez, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Anthony Martial, to name a few.
Everton have a great chance of winning at Old Trafford
Given the long list of injuries that United have to contend with, there should be at least a shred of confidence coming from the Everton camp.
That is, despite the Toffees seldom playing as if they have any.
On the road however, this side usually develops a newfound freedom, likely unburdened by the pressures of an expectant home crowd.
Perhaps they could use this to capitalise, and with the knowledge of Ten Hag’s blunted attack, push forward a bit more to take additional risks.
After all, Hojlund’s absence could allow them to get away with giving up a few more chances, in order to forge some of their own.
Given their profligacy this campaign, they will certainly need as many as they can get.
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