Chris Sutton predicts outcome of Everton clash v Aston Villa in Premier League
Chris Sutton believes Everton won’t have it all their own way in their Premier League clash against Aston Villa on Saturday (25 February) and has predicted the two teams will share the spoils at Goodison Park.
Sean Dyche has recorded a blemish-free record at home since becoming manager on Merseyside, with wins over league-leaders Arsenal and fellow strugglers Leeds helping propel the club above the relegation zone.
Making his Premier League predictions for the BBC Sport website (23 February), Sutton admitted the Goodison Park faithful would play a big role in helping claim a result against Unai Emery’s side, but eventually predicted a 1-1 draw for Dyche’s men.
He said: “At home is where it is happening for Sean Dyche, who has won both his games at Goodison Park since taking charge at Everton. It’s clear the backing they get there will play a big part if his side are going to stay up.
“I don’t think Everton will have it all their own way on Saturday, however. Aston Villa certainly had their moments against Arsenal last time out and can count themselves unlucky to lose that game as late as they did.
“We know Everton will give everything they have got but Villa carry a threat and I definitely see them scoring. On that basis, I am going for a draw.”
Confidence
A few weeks ago, Everton fans would have been dreading the prospect of playing any team who sat comfortably above them in the Premier League, but Dyche has instilled a feel-good factor on Merseyside.
It really hasn’t been rocket science from the Englishman, but boy, has it been effective in the early stages.
Dyche has simply got his side going back to the basics of football and building a platform through a stable defence. Once you know you won’t concede multiple goals every game, the attacking side of your play can start to flourish.
With James Tarkowski and Conor Coady in defence, Dyche has two experienced veterans who can stick to the brief and give the likes of Onana and Abdoulaye Doucoure more license to operate in the final third.
With Calvert-Lewin still out injured and few other options to call upon in attack, Dyche will need every ounce of his managerial nous to get his team to score enough goals to continue their fine form.