In the fourth round of the English Premier League, Everton will take on Aston Villa. The match is set for Saturday, 13 September, in Liverpool, with kick-off at 16:00 Central European Time. It could be worth betting on the attacking output in this game.
Match preview
Key players to watch include Jack Grealish, who is on loan from Manchester City, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, a new signing from Chelsea. Additionally, Everton has signed Southampton prospect Tyler Dibling.
However, Everton has its challenges. The team continues to struggle in away games, which could affect their season. With new players and a stable coaching staff, the club aims to steer clear of the relegation battles that have troubled them in the past.
The season started poorly for Everton, losing to Leeds in the first match, but they bounced back with two wins against Brighton and Wolverhampton, much to the satisfaction of their supporters.
Aston Villa has been facing financial issues, which limited their activity in the transfer window. They had to sell talented academy product Jacob Ramsey to Newcastle United and had a quiet summer overall.
Manager Unai Emery acquired Nice forward Evann Guessand, signed Victor Lindelof on a free transfer, loaned Harvey Elliott from Liverpool, and secured Jadon Sancho from Manchester United, particularly on transfer deadline day.
These challenges have affected Villa’s early-season performances. They managed only a home draw with Newcastle, followed by losses to Brentford and Crystal Palace.
Although the team is creating chances, they have struggled to finish. Aston Villa is currently the only Premier League team yet to score a goal this season.
Match facts
- Everton has won three matches in a row.
- The Toffees have kept clean sheets in their last three home games.
- Aston Villa has not scored in four consecutive matches.
- Villa has won only one of their last five away games.
- Everton averages 1.7 goals per home game, while Aston Villa averages 0.5 goals per away game.
Probable line-ups
- Everton: Pickford, Mykolenko, Keane, Tarkowski, O’Brien, Gueye, Garner, Ndiaye, Grealish, Dewsbury-Hall, Beto.
- Aston Villa: Martinez, Cash, Konsa, Mings, Digne, Tielemans, Buendia, McGinn, Rogers, Malen, Watkins.
H2H
- The last two encounters between these teams were won by Aston Villa.
- Everton has not beaten Villa at home since 2015.
Prediction
Everton has started the season well, unlike Aston Villa, who are facing some difficulties. Emery’s team will be eager for a positive outcome. As Everton has yet to lose at their new stadium, a tense match is likely. My prediction: total goals over 2.