Prediction: Everton vs Wigan

10th December 2010

Everton showed a real character by coming from behind to earn a draw at Stamford Bridge and the good result against Premier League champions could be just the boost the Toffees need to turn the season around. Wigan twice came from behind to pick up one point from the home game with Stoke and the Latics now face another difficult away game.

Following the impressive finish of last Premiership campaign, Everton were widely tipped to make that next step and maybe even enter the Champions League race this season, but after some disappointing performances, the Toffees sit in 15th place, just two points clear of the relegation zone. David Moyes admits that was not what he had in mind for this season, but there is no point in crying over the spilt milk and the Scotsman now need to find a way out of this situation. A very good performance against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge could be that spark the team need to kick-start their season, with the game against Wigan the perfect opportunity for the Toffees to rediscover their home form. That will not be easy without suspended Mikel Arteta and injured Osman, Saha and Hibbert, but Moyes definitely has a big enough squad to cope with the absentees.

Wigan were always going to have problems this season after they narrowly escaped the drop last term, so I am certainly not surprised to see the Latics in the drop zone. After beating West Bromwich at home, Roberto Martinez’s side have lost three straight games in all competitions and they were close to recording the fourth successive defeat but managed to twice come from behind against Stoke at JJB and earn a valuable point. The players are still low on confidence but they will, nonetheless, try to get something from the Goodison Park, even if that is easier said than done. The return of striker Hugo Rodallega following a three-match ban will be a big boost for the visitors, with misfiring Mauro Boselli set to be dropped. Gary Caldwell and Emerson Boyce are unlikely to make their returns this weekend, while Franco Di Santo, James McCarthy and Victor Moses are definitely out.

Conclusion

It’s been a while since Everton last won at home but the Toffees clearly have what it takes to win this match, after the good result against Chelsea served as a big confidence boost. Wigan are largely struggling at the moment and seeing they lost last five away games in all competitions, they are unlikely to fare much better against Everton.

Verdict: Home win Everton (1)

Best Odds: 1/2

Bookmaker: Paddy Power