Michael Ball shares ‘Nightmare’ Everton verdict ahead of Burnley showdown
Michael Ball has suggested that Everton will be able to avoid a “nightmare scenario” when they face Burnley, after the latest suspension news from Goodison Park.
The Toffees made it three wins from three with an excellent 2-0 victory over Chelsea on Sunday 10 December, but bookings for both Jarrad Branthwaite and Idrissa Gueye ensured that they would be suspended for the clash with Burnley.
While losing both players is a huge blow to Sean Dyche ahead of their trip to Turf Moor, Ball believes that Everton now have enough strength in depth to be able to rotate their side and continue to pick up important results.
Writing in the Liverpool Echo (12 December) he said: “The way Dyche sets up, it can be very physically and mentally draining and you question whether they can keep doing it week after week and if players are missing, is it going to be a nightmare scenario?
“They’ve proven they can keep doing it though. Everton have had injuries but we’re still getting results and that’s testament to the players who have been on the periphery and have stepped up.
“If it had happened a month ago I’d be really concerned but now I’m believing in the squad mentality and whoever steps up, it’s a huge opportunity and they know what the level is.”
Chance to move away
Everton’s win over Chelsea has helped the Toffees put some distance between them and the relegation zone, but three points against Burnley would be a huge boost to Dyche’s side as it would stop Vincent Kompany’s side from closing the gap as well.
It is too early in the season to be talking about relegation six-pointers, but these are the sort of matches that can define your season when you’re in a fight at the bottom of the table. Everton have shown they’re a midtable side when everybody is fit, now they have to navigate that without some of their stars.
Branthwaite has been superb since breaking into Dyche’s first team and not having him at Turf Moor will be a huge blow, but players are waiting for their opportunity on the bench such as Ben Godfrey or Micahel Keane when fit.
No matter what has been thrown at them, Everton have found a way to pick up wins in recent weeks. This time it is suspension rather than injuries or a point deduction harming their chances, but the nightmare scenario must be avoided again.
In other Everton news, Richard Keys has tipped Sean Dyche to become a “legend” at Goodison if he keeps the Toffees up