Both sides are similar in terms of passing accuracy; Everton with 76% compared to West Brom’s 77%. The main difference is in the location of passes made with West Brom attempting 420 passes more than Everton. Despite that, Everton have made more passes in the opposition half and in the final third. This suggests that Everton’s style is more progressive with the emphasis on going forward whilst Roy Hodgson’s side adopt a more patient and cautious approach.
Everton can recall Steven Pienaar (cup-tied) and Royston Drenthe could return (compassionate leave). Seamus Coleman (thigh) and Jack Rodwell (hamstring) look set to miss out once more. Darron Gibson will hope to remain Everton’s lucky charm with the midfielder unbeaten in his nine Everton appearances. Overall, the Ireland midfielder is unbeaten is his last 22 Premier League games. Leighton Baines is due to play his 109th consecutive match for Everton, testament to his ability and fitness.
The visitors look set to welcome a number of players into the squad. Graham Dorrans (hamstring), Chris Brunt (illness) and Jerome Thomas (hamstring) are due to return after recent injuries. Steven Reid (ankle) and Zoltan Gera (knee) remain long-term absentees. The Baggies’ most creative midfielder, James Morrison, has also joined the injury list after picking up a severe knee injury against Newcastle.
James Morrison’s absence will surely have an impact on West Brom’s football with the midfielder in fine form of late. The Scottish midfielder is vital to the Baggies and, statistically, he is their most creative player. The table below only serves to highlight this with Morrison ranking highest in several important categories.
Everton will look to continue their recent good form against a West Brom side missing their most creative player. However, with West Brom travelling well, this fixture is by no means a home banker. Everton’s recent home form is impressive but conquering the so-called lesser sides remains Everton’s biggest problem. Everton struggle against defensive visitors but flourish against passing sides and West Brom fall into this category; this should play into Everton’s hands.
Match Facts
- Tim Cahill has scored on West Brom’s last 2 visits to Goodison Park
- There have been 3 red cards in the last 3 meetings
- If Tony Hibbert features, he will be playing exactly 11 years, to the day, since his Everton début
- West Brom have kept one clean sheet in 15 away games
- Marouane Fellaini has played 99 Premier League games for Everton
