Premier League preview: Everton v Birmingham

Festive goodwill may be in short supply when struggling Birmingham travel to Everton in the English Premier League on Sunday.

Birmingham are just two points and two places clear of the relegation zone heading into the match at Goodison Park, while hosts Everton are just three points better off in 14th.

Everton were unlucky not to beat Chelsea after being largely the better side during a 1-1 draw away to the champions on December 4.

They prevented Manchester City from going top with a dogged 2-1 win at Eastland in their last match, despite going down to 10 men.

Birmingham, meanwhile, have won only three league matches all season, with a lack of firepower the major concern for manager Alex McLeish.

They drew another blank in a 1-0 defeat away to local rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers in their last league fixture, with a subsequent home match against Newcastle United postponed due to bad weather.

Birmingham continue to miss the creative presence of Scotland’s James McFadden, who is indefinitely sidelined with a knee injury.

Alexander Hleb has returned to training after missing four weeks with a hamstring problem, but Sunday’s match may come too soon for the Belarus international to play any part.

Everton will be without the suspended Victor Anichebe after the forward was sent off in the win over City.

They will also be short at the back, with Phil Jagielka and Johnny Heitinga both injured.

Midfielder Steve Pienaar missed the City game with a groin injury and remains in doubt.

Louis Saha or Yakubu Ayegbeni will be called upon to lead the line for the hosts, but Australia international Tim Cahill – who has nine goals to his name already this season – is likely to be the danger man.