Everton – Crystal Palace
Goodison Park
Saturday, 4:00 PM
Everton are still below the relegation line, but optimism is now fully restored among players, management, and fans. On Saturday, they earned their first point of the season in an away match against Leicester. On Sunday, defensive stalwart Jarrad Branthwaite returned to the pitch for the first time this season, playing for the youth team. Then, on Monday, it was reported that a bid from reliable American owners had been accepted by the current ownership. Nathan Patterson, Armando Broja, and Seamus Coleman are injured, but Vitalii Mykolenko and Idrissa Gueye are back.
Palace, like Everton, have not won this season. Their last three matches have all ended in draws, the most recent being a goalless home game against Manchester United on Saturday evening, despite numerous chances for both teams. Palace haven’t won any of their last seven games against Everton. They are through to the next round of the League Cup, where they will face an away match against Villa. Cheick Doucoure, Matheus Franca, and Rob Holding are injured. Trevoh Chalobah is doubtful but expected to make his debut following his summer loan move from Chelsea. Palace are the only club yet to lead a Premier League game this season.
Prediction
Everton have only lost one of their last 19 games against Palace, and we believe the Toffees will celebrate their first Premier League win of the season on Saturday. Home win at Goodison.
