Prediction: Everton vs Newcastle

Prediction: Newcastle win

Best Odds: 8/11

Bookmaker: 888sport

As we continue through to the end of the Premier League season, English football’s top flight is back with a host of fascinating midweek fixtures in the next few days. There are clubs at both ends of the table who have something to prove, with pretty much all of them still fighting for something. Today, we’ll be taking a look at what should be a fascinating clash between two sides with very different ambitions – Everton and Newcastle United.

Everton

Everton have never been relegated from the Premier League although survival is still very much on the cards, Sean Dyche will understand better than anyone that they’re in a tricky position. The club seems to have problems from the top down and that’s been the case for a few years now, which is what has left them in this position. Still, they have some quality in their ranks, which is the only real cause for optimism right now.

Team News

Hoglate is suspended, Onana is a fitness doubt and the following players are injured: Alli, Vinagre, Townsend and Coleman.

Newcastle

Eddie Howe has been working wonders with Newcastle United this season and that isn’t an understatement. The Geordies are flying and after a post-League Cup final wobble, they’re back on track and look set to make an appearance in the Champions League next season – or, at the very least, the Europa League. We all knew they’d start turning in strong results after the takeover, but they’ve jumped out of the gates quicker than anyone could’ve imagined.

Team News

Fraser and Krafth are both out with Saint-Maximin and Schar set to be assessed before kick-off.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in October, Newcastle beat Everton 1-0.
• Everton have won one, drawn three and lost two of their last six games.
• Newcastle have won five and lost one of their last six games.
• Everton have scored five goals and conceded eight in their last six games.
• Newcastle have scored 17 goals and conceded seven in their last six games.

Conclusion

With a passionate Goodison Park behind them, it’s not unthinkable to imagine Everton frustrating Newcastle for long periods of this game. However, that kind of strategy would require confidence – something the Toffees are sorely lacking. We expect the Magpies to come out firing in the wake of their triumph over Tottenham and in the end, they’ll ease to victory after scoring early on.

Prediction: Newcastle win

Best Odds: 8/11

Bookmaker: 888sport