Sky Sports expert predicts result of Everton clash v Brighton
Everton will be hoping to start the New Year on a positive note when they take on Brighton in the Premier League clash at Goodison Park on Sunday.
Both clubs are struggling at the moment, but Everton camp should be in great spirit following a much-needed (albeit due to Covid reasons) break from football.
The break has helped them regroup and re-strategise their plans, and Sky Sports expert, Lewis Jones has predicted a 2-1 victory for Rafa Benitez’s side.
Several key players are set to return to action, including Dominic Calvert-Lewin who has played only three matches thus far, scoring three goals.
“I can’t have Brighton in this one….especially if Dominic Calvert-Lewin is fit to play,” wrote Jones for Sky Sports.
“He can be the difference-maker on his return bringing with him a 50 per cent win rate when he plays against 21 per cent when he’s missing.
“Brighton don’t have someone of his ruthlessness or power in the final third which will continue to hold them back at putting together consistent winning runs.”
No excuse
Benitez has given full backing by the club despite a dismal run of form, where they picked up just one win from their last 11 games.
The Spaniard was really unlucky with the injuries, but his real test begins now.
Already Everton have confirmed their first signing – Vitaliy Mykolenko from Dynamo Kiev – of the January transfer, and one or two are likely to follow this month.
It’s time to deliver on the pitch.
Brighton were superb against Chelsea in their previous match, but they are very inconsistent this season under Graham Potter.
They have picked up just one win in their last 14 games in all competitions, and there’s no reason to believe why the Toffees can’t win this game.
It will be a tight affair but the Toffees should have enough quality to secure all three points.
In other Everton news, club ‘seeking to convince’ South American star about January transfer.