Everton’s unsung hero could hold key vs Tottenham after Premier League reveal
Tottenham travel to Merseyside to face Everton this weekend, and one man in particular will be crucial for the Toffees.
Everton’s 2-0 defeat to Man City last time out means that they have won just one of their last six games across all competitions.
With a clash against Tottenham up next, things aren’t getting much easier for the Toffees, who certainly need to find a way to get themselves out of this run of form.
While it may seem difficult on paper, Everton have one player in particular who could play a crucial role in their chances of getting a result, and it is not who you think.
James Tarkowski could be Everton’s difference-maker
Let’s face it, Jack Grealish has been the name on everyone’s lips this season, and rightfully so.
Since joining on loan from Man City, Grealish has been immense for Everton, and after just a handful of games, he has already been the cause of shouts for him to return to the England squad.
Grealish’s stats this season
- Seven appearances
- One goal
- Four assists
- 17 chances created
While he will be needed against Spurs, James Tarkowski is set to play an even more crucial role at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Via BBC Sport, only Arsenal have scored more goals from corners in the Premier League than Tottenham over the last two years, with 13 scored for Thomas Frank’s side.
Defending them will be key to the Toffees’ chances of winning the game, and as per Sofascore, Tarkowski has shown his ability to do that this season with a 70 per cent aerial duel win rate.
The Englishman averages 4.4 aerial duel wins per 90, with 67.6 per cent of those in total (including ground duels), resulting in him winning possession.
Tarkowski has been one of the most consistent performers at Everton over the years, but has very rarely emerged with as much praise as he has perhaps deserved.
Of course, David Moyes will need his attacking outlets to be at their best, but surviving these set pieces has to be the number one priority.
Everton must address woeful record vs Spurs
Everton have won just one of their last 12 encounters at home to Tottenham.
That isn’t a good look for Moyes‘ side, though they are also unbeaten against Spurs in their last six.
Everton’s all-time record against Tottenham.
- Everton wins – 58
- Draws – 60
- Tottenham wins – 72
The most recent meeting was back in January, when goals from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Iliman Ndiaye and an own goal from Archie Gray saw the Toffees win 3-2.
It was Everton’s first win under Moyes since he returned to Merseyside, who will be looking to repeat that success this weekend.
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