Everton face uphill battle v Aston Villa as double statistical blow emerges
Everton certainly haven’t been at their best lately, with Sean Dyche’s men slipping back down the Premier League table.
After a strong run following their points deduction, the Toffees have now lost their last three league games. And things aren’t going to get any easier for the Merseyside club, with high-flying Aston Villa up next.
Unai Emery’s men travel to Goodison Park on Sunday (14 December) in fine form, and they will be keen to leave with all three points.
And unfortunately for the hosts, history is not on their side, with Everton failing to win any of their nine Premier League fixtures against teams who started the day in the top six since beating Arsenal in February, losing each of the last seven [official Premier League website, 12 January].
In another blow, the Toffees have conceded six goals from corners this season, the second most in the competition, with Villa dangerous in that area [official Premier League website, 12 January].
Everton will certainly need to be at the very top of their game if they are to come out on top or even clinch a point, which would definitely be a positive outcome for Dyche and his players.
Worryingly for the Toffees, Premier League relegation is now once again a real threat, although they can take some comfort from the struggles of the likes of Sheffield United, Burnley and Luton Town.
The newly promoted clubs are finding it hard at the top level of English football, and that may just save Everton from the drop this season.