Everton starting to fear for top flight status
Everton fans seem already resigned to their fate, despite the Toffees having three games in hand on some of their relegation rivals. Frank Lampard's appointment has not precipitated even a short-term revival of fortunes, and they must welcome Newcastle United to Goodison Park on Thursday in the Premier League in the knowledge that the Toon Army are very much in the ascendancy. Read our preview here:
Be not afeared, little Calvert
The list of unavailable players for this vital game was added to after Jonjoe Kenny's needless dismissal during their costly 1-0 home loss to Wolves at the weekend. This could mean a reversion back to a 4-2-3-1, with January signing Dele Alli handed his first start in blue since making the switch from Tottenham Hotspur. Up top will be Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has failed to find the net this year. Few would question his ability, but he needs to lead the line as he did in August before his injury if his side are to get out of their funk.
Fire, water, Dan Burn
Eddie Howe has a significant number of potential absentees, too. As well as long-termers Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson, Jonjo Shelvey and Joe Willock (the latter of whom has had a revival of fortunes as of late) could be missing from the midfield. However, Joelinton should be back, and the tireless running and interceptions he can make will be vital to mop up possession in between the lines. Dan Burn, who was incensed that Kai Havertz's challenge in the 1-0 loss to Chelsea went unpunished, has been a reliable presence at the back since joining from Brighton & Hove Albion, and he must continue in the same vein, regardless of whether Calvert-Lewin is off-colour.
Betting tip
bet365 have odds of 3.10 for a Newcastle win that, whilst it won't immediately plunge Everton into the relegation zone, will only increase the hope the likes of Watford, Burnley, and even Norwich City might hold of escaping.
