Everton’s challenge vs Arsenal just got significantly harder after latest reveal
Everton’s record against Champions League sides is cause for concern.
Everton host Arsenal at the Hill Dickinson Stadium this weekend, with hopes of bouncing back from their latest defeat against Chelsea.
To leave Stamford Bridge empty-handed was a poor enough day as it was for the Toffees, but their weekend got even worse when both Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Jack Grealish suffered injuries.
Whether either can make the squad against the Gunners remains to be seen, but given the task at hand, their absence would be a major blow.
David Moyes must find a way to get Everton competing with the elite
It’s been a solid yet unspectacular campaign for Everton so far, who have only lost two games at home so far this season.
Those defeats were against Tottenham and Newcastle, both of whom are in the Champions League this season.
That is the Toffees’ biggest downfall so far this season, with five of their six defeats of the campaign coming against teams who are in that competition.
Of course, Arsenal are as well, and if Everton are to secure all three points against a side favourite to win the Premier League, they will have to overcome their horrific record against sides in their situation.
Moyes’ side are yet to win a game against a Champions League-level opponent, and this could be their chance to rectify that.
Dwight McNeil milestone could be achieved vs Arsenal
With Iliman Ndiaye on international duty, and Grealish potentially out injured awaiting confirmation, Moyes doesn’t have too many options in the wide areas.
Tyler Dibling could be handed a start, as could Dwight McNeil.
If the latter makes an appearance against the Gunners, he will become the fifth youngest player to reach 100 games for two different clubs, having featured regularly for Burnley before his move to Merseyside.
Emile Heskey is currently the youngest player to have achieved that in the Premier League, with Frank Lampard also among the list.
The 26-year-old is yet to start for the Toffees in the Premier League this season but his chance may come this weekend against the league leaders.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @goodisonnews