Everton will be looking to get back to winning ways when they host Aston Villa at Goodison Park on Saturday afternoon. Everton's last fixture was a 2-0 defeat to Liverpool in the Merseyside derby before the international break, while Villa managed to pick up an important 1-0 victory over Leicester City.
Both teams have had contrasting starts to the 2021-22 season so far. Everton have failed to win any of their last three Premier League matches after starting strongly, while Villa have begun to pick up results under new manager Dean Smith following two defeats in their opening three games. 🤔 Everton currently sit eighth in the table with 10 points from their opening six games, while Villa are 12th with 7 points from their 6 matches so far this campaign.
Rafael Benitez will understand the importance of getting back to winning ways against Villa. The pressure will increase on the Everton manager if they fail to pick up three points at home, given the criticism of some Everton fans towards his style of play. Benitez is likely to name an attacking lineup with the potentially returning Richarlison, hoping for an improved performance in the final third than what was shown at Anfield. ⚽⚽
Everton have a positive head to head record recently against Villa, winning three of the last five meetings between the sides. However, these games are usually very tight affairs with few goals. Dean Smith will believe his well drilled Villa side can build on their Leicester win by adopting a hardworking approach and being resilient in defence. 💪 Ollie Watkins leading the line could test the Everton back four with his tireless workrate.
All eyes will be on Goodison Park on Saturday for what promises to be a hard fought encounter between two teams looking to improve their league position. 👀 The atmosphere should be crackling as Everton chase that elusive win. With both sides possessing threats going forward, a draw may be the most likely outcome. But one team could take the three points if they're able to execute their gameplan to perfection under the pressure of needing the win. - https://mbscore.tv/match/criciuma-vs-botafogo-sp-18791932