BT Sport pundit Joleon Lescott predicts Everton response in second trip to Bournemouth
Joleon Lescott believes Everton will be far better in their second meeting with Bournemouth, after losing 4-1 in the Carabao Cup this week.
Frank Lampard was furious with his players when his fully-changed line up produced a limp display in getting knocked out of the cup on Tuesday (8 November), so is sure to revert to his usual starters as he looks to gain a much-needed win before the World Cup break.
BT Sport pundit Lescott is aware from his own career how often a quick-fire double-header doesn’t go the same way the second time round, but isn’t sure it will be enough of a swing to see the Toffees come out on top and has gone for a 1-1 draw.
In his weekly Live Score predictions he said: “These two met in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday with Bournemouth getting an impressive win, although both sides weren’t quite at full strength.
“I remember a few occurrences of coming up against a side twice in quick succession during my playing days. And if you’ve lost that first meeting, you’re really determined to put things right.
“I expect Everton to be much better but whether they’ve got enough to win, I’m not sure.”
Redemption
While both line ups are sure to change significantly from the cup game, the immediate opportunity to rectify the mistakes of the first encounter needs to motivate this squad.
It is going to need a much-improved attacking display, as the return of the usual defensive unit should bring a major improvement at the back.
The strong win over Crystal Palace aside (22 October), it has been going forward where there has been a lot lacking, and with Dominic Calvert-Lewin again injured changes have been forced.
Neal Maupay could do with reminding Everton why they bought him, and homegrown star Anthony Gordon hasn’t shown enough of what made Chelsea come knocking with their millions during the transfer window for some time.
The set up that Lampard has favoured for weeks now relies on forcing mistakes from the opposition to fashion a few important chances.
In the defeats at Tottenham and at home to Leicester last week the Toffees created two golden opportunities each, but didn’t take any.
So while they need to create more in general, it is just as important for them to remember how to take advantage if they do manage to do so, as a win in the final game before the international break would make a major difference to morale around the club.