Everton v Nottingham Forest: ‘Fascinating’ verdict shared shortly before kickoff
Everton and Nottingham Forest could play out a very “interesting” encounter at Goodison Park on Sunday amid a statistic shared by Tony Scott.
The Liverpool Echo journalist shared on X [29 December] an intriguing stat that has emerged, illustrating that the Toffees and their visitors share the bottom two places in the Premier League in terms of average possession.
Sean Dyche’s men have averaged just 38 per cent of the ball per game this season, while Forest only marginally see more possession with 40 per cent – promising an unpredictable clash between the sides.
Scott posted with a wry remark: “Everton (38%) v Nottingham Forest (40%) – Two teams with the lowest possession averages in the Premier League.
“Will be fascinating to see which team actually wants to be on the ball today.”
Everton v Nottingham Forest will not be a possession showdown
Everton and Nottingham Forest have been jointly remarkable of late, with both sides priding themselves on their defensive resilience.
Both Dyche and Nuno Espirito Santo have struck a chord against elite opponents in recent weeks; the only major difference is Forest’s ability on the counter-attack all campaign has been absolutely superb, and holds the key to their continued presence in the top four.
As for the Toffees, who sit 15th, the results may have been less glamorous, but when you consider who they have kept at bay in their last three games (Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City – two of those away from home) – then it is certainly food for thought ahead of what will be an equally challenging encounter.
One view is that this is refreshing. Too many teams and too many managers up and down the English pyramid have become obsessed with possession and attempting to make the best out of their technical ability.
Tactics like playing out from the back have been favoured over productivity, and have ended up costing clubs key results, and even places in the top flight. It has cost managers and head coaches their employment.
When you find the way your team excels, the manager should mould to that to a certain extent. Dyche and Nuno have certainly found what gets the most harmonious tune from their squad, and are now reaping the rewards from it.
Forest will approach the game as favourites, but Everton will maintain some confidence of nicking a result, even if the intricate passing football might not be there to entertain the Goodison crowd.
In other Everton news, Newcastle United are set to return with their interest in one Toffees star.
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