Everton fans here in the Tavern are hoping their side can challenge for a European spot next season, as a major overhaul is likely to take place at Goodison Park in the summer.
The Toffees have been extremely inconsistent since Sam Allardyce was appointed back in November, as they currently find themselves floating around mid-table in the Premier League. Although, their last outing at Turf Moor was certainly a game that many of our local Evertonians have tried hard to forget, after seeing a one goal lead turn into a 2-1 defeat against Sean Dyche’s Burnley.
However, Everton welcome Brighton and Hove Albion to Goodison Park for today’s Premier League encounter, in what could turn out to be a second successive defeat for the Toffees. Indeed, the Seagulls are currently on a run of seven games unbeaten in all competitions, as one of the form sides in the top-flight.
Therefore, Sam Allardyce will have to rally his troops in order to get anything out of today’s fixture, after witnessing Brighton’s heroics in a 2-1 victory over Arsenal last weekend. So, here’s a look at TWO players that the Everton chief surely cannot start against the Seagulls today…
Cuco Martina
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKiCIf0QB9c
The former Southampton full-back is still yet to find his feet at Goodison Park so far this season, with his inconsistencies continuing to halt any progress being made by the Everton side.
And, there was no change in last weekend’s game against Burnley, after delivering yet another one of his trademark Cuco Martina performances of all right foot and inconsistent defending. But, the one error that had many of our local residents turning away in disappointment was the hand he played in Chris Wood’s goal, after being involved in a mix-up prior to conceding.
Therefore, Sam Allardyce should look to drop the Dutchman from his side for the visit of Brighton and Hove Albion, as the experienced Leighton Baines should be gifted a starting position.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
The former Sheffield United youth product has shown glimpses of brilliance during his time at Goodison Park, as he goes on in search of a regular place in the Everton side from here on in until the end of the season.
Indeed, he did get the nod in last weekend’s game against Burnley to start out wide for the Toffees as support for Cenk Tosun, but his lack of experience showed in a tight encounter that saw him look a little out of place.
Therefore, Sam Allardyce surely cannot start the youngster after such a poor showing last time out, as the pace and skill of Yannick Bolasie could cause Brighton all sorts of problems having failed to keep a clean sheet in their last eight Premier League fixtures.
