As the Premier League season reaches a critical juncture, Everton and Leicester City are set to lock horns in a highly anticipated matchup at Goodison Park on Saturday. Both teams have experienced contrasting fortunes of late, making this encounter all the more intriguing.

Everton, buoyed by their recent resurgence under the guidance of David Moyes, have moved clear of the relegation zone and now find themselves just seven points adrift of the top half of the table.

Their 1-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion last weekend, secured through Iliman Ndiaye’s first-half penalty, marked their first back-to-back league wins since April. This newfound momentum could prove crucial as they look to further distance themselves from the bottom three.

On the other hand, Leicester City, despite their impressive win over Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, remain in a precarious position, sitting just one point above the relegation zone.

Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side will be eager to build on that result and potentially move further away from the drop zone with a positive outcome at Goodison Park.

The recent head-to-head record between these two clubs heavily favors Leicester, with their 2-0 triumph at Goodison in November 2022 being their only victory in the last eight meetings. However, Everton will be determined to avenge that defeat and secure a crucial three points on home soil.

Team News

Everton’s victory over Brighton came at a cost, as both Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Orel Mangala face lengthy spells on the sidelines. This leaves Beto as Everton’s only fit central striker, with Armando Broja and Youssef Chermiti also sidelined.

The absence of Mangala, who is set to miss the remainder of the season due to ACL damage, will be a significant blow for the Toffees.

Leicester, on the other hand, could welcome back goalkeeper Mads Hermansen after a six-week absence, potentially ending Jakub Stolarczyk’s run as the team’s deputy.

Wilfred Ndidi is also nearing a return to action, having made significant progress in his recovery and returning to training this week. However, Ricardo Pereira and Abdul Fatawu remain long-term absentees for the Foxes.

Predicted Lineups

Everton: (4-5-1)

Pickford;

O’Brien, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko;

Lindstrom, Gueye, Garner, Doucoure, Ndiaye;

Beto

Leicester City: (4-2-3-1)

Hermansen;

Justin, Faes, Vestergaard, Kristensen;

Winks, Soumare;

Ayew, El Khannouss, Decordova-Reid;

Vardy

The match promises to be a closely contested affair, with both teams desperate for the points to further their respective objectives. Everton’s newfound resilience and Leicester’s need to capitalize on their recent success could make for an intriguing tactical battle at Goodison Park.