Everton Seek to Build Momentum as In-Form Newcastle Visit Goodison Park
Everton will look to secure back-to-back Premier League wins for the first time this season as they welcome high-flying Newcastle United to Goodison Park on Saturday. With Everton finally off the mark and Newcastle aiming to maintain their strong start, this fixture promises to be a tightly contested battle.
Match Preview
After a tough start to the campaign, Everton secured their first Premier League win of the season last weekend with a come-from-behind 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace. Dwight McNeil’s two quick goals in the second half made the difference after a disappointing first-half display from Sean Dyche’s side. The return of defender Jarrad Branthwaite, who helped shore up the defense, played a crucial role in their success.
With that vital win under their belts, Everton now find themselves outside the relegation zone for the first time this season. However, with an impending club takeover and the pressure still on Dyche, another positive result at Goodison Park will be key as they aim to build momentum heading into the international break. Goodison has been somewhat of a fortress for the Toffees, with six wins from their last eight matches at home.
Newcastle United, on the other hand, are enjoying their best start to a Premier League campaign in over a decade. Eddie Howe’s side are level on points with sixth-placed Fulham after taking 11 points from their first six matches. Their performance last weekend—a 1-1 draw with Manchester City—highlighted their ability to compete with the league’s best, even without key forward Alexander Isak.
Newcastle’s away form in 2024 has been impressive, winning 10 of their last 17 away games across all competitions. After a forgettable EFL Cup win over AFC Wimbledon in midweek, Howe will be keen to see his side back to their best as they push for a top-five finish and a return to European competition.
Team News
Everton will be without defender Jarrad Branthwaite once again due to a quad injury, with Michael Keane likely to step back into the starting lineup. Sean Dyche may also replace underperforming winger Jesper Lindstrom with Jack Harrison, while Dwight McNeil is expected to retain his place after his stellar performance against Crystal Palace.
Newcastle’s attack will be weakened by the absence of Alexander Isak, who is sidelined with a broken toe, while former Everton player Anthony Gordon is set to lead the line in his place. Eddie Howe will also be missing Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles, and Callum Wilson, but Kieran Trippier is expected to return after missing the midweek cup match.
Possible Lineups
Everton: Pickford; Young, Tarkowski, Keane, Mykolenko; Mangala, Doucoure; Harrison, McNeil, Ndiaye; Calvert-Lewin
Newcastle: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Burn, Hall; Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton; Murphy, Gordon, Barnes
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