Back page Everton host Arsenal at Goodison Park on Sunday as Premier League action resumes following an international break.
The Toffees’ troubles from last season’s close call with relegation have not eased in a troubling start to the new campaign. Arsenal are fighting at the other end of the Premier League table after another strong beginning to the 2023/24 season.
Both sides have plenty to play for at Goodison Park on Sunday and you can find some of the best odds for this fixture at Boylesports after signing up with the Boylesports promo code.
Tricky start for Everton
A decent pre-season of four wins from five friendly matches has given way to a poor start for Sean Dyche’s Everton. The Toffees lost their first three Premier League matches without scoring and conceding six.
Things were more promising just before the international break. Everton bounced back from a goal down to defeat League Two Doncaster 2-1 in the EFL Cup before an entertaining 2-2 draw at Sheffield United in the league. The result moved Everton up to 18th.
Getting off the mark with goals and a point will give confidence to Dyche and his Everton side. The Toffees’ results have not always reflected their performances and chances have come for the Liverpool-based side.
However, more consistency in front of goals will be crucial to whether Everton can push on. Moreover, the expected return of Dominic Calvert-Lewin for the Arsenal clash could be pivotal and provide a huge attacking boost to Dyche.
Arsenal on the title charge again?
Arsenal have shown no signs of carrying their title disappointment from last season into the new season. In 2022/23, the Gunners led Man City in the title race with a five-point lead before eventually finishing second.
Mike Arteta’s side have won three of their opening four matches which began with an opening day 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest at home. Another professional victory at Crystal Palace (1-0) followed before the Gunners dropped two points from a winning position in a 2-2 home draw against ten-man Fulham.
Ahead of the international break, Arsenal then bounced back with a strong 3-1 home win against Man United, with two injury-time goals from Declan Rice and Gabriel Jesus confirming the win.
The United win is the type of result that could give Arteta’s side a massive boost heading into the next stages of the season. Also, Jesus’ return against United, marked with a crucial goal, might spark a strong run of form from the Brazilian.
Verdict
Everton’s home form could be vital in their quest to push up the table. In addition, despite losing five of their last six league game at Goodison, Everton have won their last three home games against the Gunners, including a 1-0 victory in Sean Dyche’s first game in charge last season.
A win for Everton over Arsenal would provide big momentum for the Toffees. However, they will need to overcome an Arsenal side that has won four of their last five matches in the Premier League. Although, just two away league wins in six might give Everton a window to strike.
A cagey match is anticipated and Everton will be hard to beat. It will be another stern test of the Gunners’ resolve and as the North London side are back to near full strength, they could notch another win to start 2023/24.
