Everton confirmed XI v Newcastle United: Key player makes first home start since February
Everton have confirmed their starting XI for their Premier League match against Newcastle United tonight (27 April), with the clash live on BT Sport 2.
Sean Dyche has named his side with three changes to the team following the 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace on Saturday at Selhurst Park.
Amadou Onana, Abdoulaye Doucoure and Ben Godfrey are the trio to return as the Toffees strive to get points on the board.
Onana has recovered from the groin injury which kept him out recently whilst Doucoure is available again after suspension.
Godfrey comes in to replace the suspended Mason Holgate, who was sent off against Palace at the weekend. Dominic Calvert-Lewin makes his first Goodison start since the 1-0 win against Arsenal, back in February.
Fight to the end
This game will be as difficult as it is crucial, against a formidable opponent.
Dyche’s men will be much more organised and resolute against the Magpies compared to their Spurs walkover on Sunday but it was further evidence of the quality and confidence that Newcastle possess at present.
The Toffees will need to take any chances that come along but the focus has to be keeping things tight at the other end, providing a basis to stay in the game and go on to secure a result.
Having Calvert-Lewin available again made a big difference against Crystal Palace, although it still did not translate to goals and three points in the end.
The striker will be rusty, of course, but if chances come his way, he is going to need to start taking them sooner rather than later if the Toffees want to stay up.
There were incredible scenes as the players arrived at Goodison with the fans making it a real battleground once again with flares and non-stop chanting, that battle is now needed on the pitch.
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