Everton vs Southampton: Match Preview and Predictions
The Toffees and the Saints Face Off in a Crucial Premier League Clash
Everton and Southampton will lock horns at Goodison Park on Saturday in a crucial Premier League encounter. Both teams are in desperate need of points, with Everton hovering just above the relegation zone and Southampton languishing in the bottom three.
Everton have endured a difficult start to the season, winning just three of their opening 12 matches. They have also conceded a league-high 27 goals, which highlights their defensive frailties.
Southampton have fared even worse, with only one victory to their name so far this campaign. They have also struggled to score goals, finding the net just nine times in their 12 league outings.
Team News
Everton will be without the suspended Idrissa Gueye and the injured Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Yerry Mina is also a doubt due to a calf problem.
Southampton have no fresh injury concerns, but they will still be without the long-term absentees Valentino Livramento and Alex McCarthy.
Predicted Lineups
Everton: Pickford; Coleman, Coady, Tarkowski, Mykolenko; Onana, Doucoure; Gordon, Iwobi, McNeil; Maupay
Southampton: Bazunu; Walker-Peters, Bella-Kotchap, Salisu, Perraud; Ward-Prowse, Lavia; Elyounoussi, Armstrong, Djenepo; Adams
Match Preview
This is a must-win game for both Everton and Southampton. Everton need to start climbing the table if they want to avoid being dragged into a relegation battle, while Southampton need to start picking up points if they want to avoid being cut adrift at the bottom.
Everton will be confident of victory at Goodison Park, where they have a strong record against Southampton. The Toffees have won their last three home games against the Saints, scoring eight goals in the process.
However, Southampton will be buoyed by their recent performances. They have drawn their last two games against Manchester City and Arsenal, and they will be confident of causing Everton problems on Saturday.
Prediction
This is a difficult game to predict, as both teams are in poor form. However, Everton's home record against Southampton and their desperate need for points should give them the edge.
Prediction: Everton 2-1 Southampton