Royal Blue Mersey: All Posts by Trent NelsonIt's a grand old team to supporthttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52544/royal_fav.png2024-03-09T06:46:28+00:00https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/authors/trent-nelson/rss2024-03-09T06:46:28+00:002024-03-09T06:46:28+00:00Everton at Man Utd: The Opposition View | Red Devils confident about continuing streak at Old Trafford
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<img alt="Everton FC v Manchester United - Premier League" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/yJ-CWRMtPCr6wVQHaUtI4eGH5ZY=/0x0:3906x2604/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73193579/1831045836.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>NOVEMBER 26: Victor Lindelof of Manchester United and Dwight McNeil of Everton in action during the Premier League match | Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>With three points hard to come by once again, the Toffees will look to do just that versus an inconsistent bunch of Red Devils</p> <p id="32ISHm"><a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com">Everton</a> has played quite well across large swaths of the matches they have played throughout the 2024 calendar year thus far. Yet have not taken three points from any Premier League encounter since the middle of December 2023. </p>
<p id="P8YpNo">While a reduction of points taken because of sanctions has propped the team up into a more favorable table position, dropping points against Brighton in the dying moments was followed by a demoralizing defeat to David Moyes and West Ham - after the Blues had played very good football for much of the match.</p>
<p id="kAFyWq"><a href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com">Manchester United</a>, meanwhile, is as inconsistent as ever. After winning six of seven matches coming of the break - across all competitions - losses to Fulham and <a href="https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com">Manchester City</a> have got the fans and media asking questions concerning Erik Ten Hag’s job moving forward.</p>
<p id="DqavZS">Both sides, to put it plainly, could use a victory, then. But just what the final result will be? Only time can tell.</p>
<p id="7HcMxN">Ahead of Saturday’s match at Old Trafford, we spoke to <a href="https://x.com/pkwestel?s=21&t=naiYuLGompl6Pgtqnu6yUw"><strong>Pauly Kwestel</strong></a>, co-host of The Fergie Fledglings Podcast and writer for <a href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/"><strong>SB Nation’s United site</strong></a>, <a href="https://x.com/thebusbybabe?s=21&t=naiYuLGompl6Pgtqnu6yUw"><strong>The Busby Babe</strong></a>:</p>
<p id="cjcpet"><strong>RBM: Firstly, with Manchester United on the edge of the various European competitions for next year, but quite a ways off from the title race and top three for this year, what is the energy like around the training grounds and Old Trafford?</strong></p>
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<p id="otk4WV"><strong>PK: </strong>The training ground? God only knows.</p>
<p id="5w74jy">We know Erik Ten Hag likes high-intensity training sessions. There have been reports here and there about how the players don’t like this and are feeling burnt out. Leaving the behind the scenes things out and just looking at what’s out there in public, this does not look like a team that’s particularly enjoying themselves at the moment. </p>
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<p id="wmGotn"><strong>RBM: What is the state of this Manchester United? Some weeks it sounds as though the supporters and club are content to go through the rebuild with Erik ten Hag, and other times, it sounds like he’s nearly out of time already: what should we make of it all?</strong></p>
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<p id="4Qt3fP"><strong>PK: </strong>A few weeks ago, I would have said Ten Hag is managing for his job. By now, I think INEOS have already made a decision on him. It’s almost impossible to see him still being in charge next season. He’s dealt with a lot this season, and there have been some excuses. The most prominent excuse is the injuries, though his lack of squad rotation through a 60-game season last year, playing players who aren’t fully fit (Martinez), overworking players with injury histories (Shaw), the high-intensity training sessions (Mount, Hojlund) suggest there is some level of culpability in that. Injuries aside, he’s getting out-coached on an almost weekly basis, and every match seems to have a 15-20-minute period where the opposition manager makes an adjustment, and Ten Hag is completely befuddled by it. </p>
<p id="wcqzKu">At this point, the most prominent argument for keeping him is that United have kept sacking managers, and that hasn’t worked, so why would sacking another work? If that’s the only reason for keeping you in a job, you’re already finished.</p>
<p id="CJRiHz">I’ve said before that there was nothing about Ten Hag’s resume that said he was guaranteed to be a success in England, but he absolutely had a good enough resume for a club like Manchester United to take a chance on him. When you’re trying to find the up-and-coming guy, you’re going to swing and miss sometimes. You just gotta cut your losses. </p>
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<img alt="Manchester United v Olympique Lyonnais" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/j1-ZrEuaAW_Fytj59nM4k51IDdE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25326463/1541720187.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Ross Parker/SNS Group via Getty Images</cite>
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<p id="fv6lN7"><strong>RBM: Is the inconsistency of this side simply down to a sort of changing of the guard as new players push their way past older ones, or is there blame for the staff and administrators to bear?</strong></p>
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<p id="OrUC7z"><strong>PK: </strong>There’s a lot of issues. Many of which were pretty easy to see coming. </p>
<p id="T8wVL6">For starters, it’s just a horribly built squad. United “rebuilt” their midfield last season by signing two midfielders over the age of 30. Casemiro has been awful this year and Eriksen has hardly featured. Antony might be the worst player in the league. Bear in mind, United borrowed from future transfer budgets to sign Antony and Casemiro last year. </p>
<p id="Jx2pFd">Marcus Rashford had a career high 17 Premier League goals last year. Repeating that feat was never likely as he moved from being the focal point of the attack to being someone whose job is to provide service to your new number 9. </p>
<p id="AW8MYp">A lot of it is on Ten Hag. The fact that United are 6th in the league is indicative of how <a href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2024/2/21/24078237/tactical-analysis-you-can-win-on-talent-alone">much talent they have in the squad</a>. They’ve been winning in spite of him. Week after week their opponents know exactly how to thwart United’s tactics. They conceded 100 shots in their five matches heading into the Manchester Derby - 17 of which came against League Two side Newport County. Newport have only had 17 shots in four of their 35 League Two matches. </p>
<p id="8aNiDM">Every week Ten Hag is asked if the performance, or the injuries/player availability may require him to change things up. Every week Ten Hag says no the principles remain the same no matter what. Hard to expect anything to change. </p>
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<p id="nHqxht"><strong>RBM: Let’s talk about Sir Jim Ratcliffe once again; what will change over the next several months, into the summer window, and beyond now that he and his people will be running the club’s footballing operations?</strong></p>
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<p id="E5dYDA"><strong>PK: </strong>Hopefully a lot. According to what they say there’s going to be an actual structure in place. There will be a clear hierarchy of who reports to who. They’re going to actually have a long term plan and stick to it. Most importantly, it sounds like they’ll have the autonomy to make decisions, rather than everything having to ultimately go through Joel Glazer. </p>
<p id="MJBcQy">I don’t actually think they’re going to make a big splash this summer. Bear in mind, the people who will be in charge of things haven’t even been hired yet. Once they’re hired, they’re going to have to build out the teams underneath them. These things take time. Most importantly, United are in financial hell right now. No European football the second half of the season really hurts them, and the Premier League is showing that they’re taking P&S laws seriously (which United is in favor of). </p>
<p id="0vLh3j">Given the financial situation and the need to let the books rest, I wouldn’t be surprised if they have a relatively quiet summer and really aim to get things going in 2025.</p>
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<p id="5cDr6u"><strong>RBM: While it seems like United have a good trio of attacking players up front for the future, clearly there are areas to improve upon; what are they and who might be pipped to replace older, more familiar names this summer? </strong></p>
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<p id="Q2G5kd"><strong>PK: </strong>What’s that David Moyes quote? United to improve in a few areas such as attacking, defending, and midfield?</p>
<p id="QgE7Xg">They don’t necessarily need better defenders; they need younger and more durable defenders. The rest of the defending comes with a better midfield and better structure.</p>
<p id="GLhrfM">They need some midfielders who can play alongside Kobbie Mainoo and they badly need depth for whenever someone gets hurt.</p>
<p id="Fn2Gfi">Up front, things are interesting. They’ve got decisions to make. You have to figure out a way to get Rashford and Hojlund to coexist on the same side. There have been some positive signs lately, but the bottom line is that Rashford’s best seasons are when he’s the focal point of the attack; he isn’t anymore, which is also problematic because of that new contract he got. </p>
<p id="Nq4Pjg">As I mentioned before, I don’t think they’re going to make huge signings this summer. That’ll give Garnacho another year to show if he can do it or not, but he’s going to need to make a big leap. For as exciting as Garnacho is, he’s only scored five goals in the league this year and only in three different games. He takes a ton of shots and has one of the worst shots-on-target percentages in Europe. He’s fun, he’s promising, but you gotta make more of an impact than that if you want to be a starter for Manchester United.</p>
<p id="RRSOlH">Lastly, no one is going to come in and try to sign Jadon Sancho. With a presumably a new manager in charge next season I would not be surprised to see them <a href="https://kwestthoughts.substack.com/p/is-sending-jadon-sancho-on-loan-backing">try to work him back into the team</a>.</p>
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<img alt="Everton v Manchester United - Premier League - Goodison Park" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/AU287wQmV_5lR1W9CZIEm3lqYdg=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25326465/1803445770.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Peter Byrne/PA Images via Getty Images</cite>
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<img alt="Everton v Manchester United - Premier League - Goodison Park" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Xz3jT-s1IMMNc7fOHQfm8gF7-Rk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25326464/1803445770.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Peter Byrne/PA Images via Getty Images</cite>
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<p id="QcxeFo"><strong>RBM: What are the ambitions of this side across the rest of the campaign?</strong></p>
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<p id="qDBVtK"><strong>PK: </strong>They’d obviously love to win the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/fa-cup">FA Cup</a>. Drawing <a href="https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/">Liverpool</a> in the next round is the most difficult cup draw Ten Hag has gotten in his time at Old Trafford.</p>
<p id="pVPMHr">After the Derby, Ten Hag said qualification for the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/champions-league">Champions League</a> was still possible, and United had to go for it. Technically, he’s not wrong, but even fifth place is far beyond United’s reach (plus, England is not helping themselves get a strong enough coefficient to get fifth place a UCL spot).</p>
<p id="44pd2Q"><a href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com">Aston Villa</a> are currently on pace for 77 points, Spurs are on pace for 73. They both have difficult schedules remaining so even if we anticipate their form dropping a bit, United have already lost to five of the 11 teams they have left to face, plus they were trailing after 90 minutes to Brentford. And that list doesn’t even include Liverpool. </p>
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<p id="u6pgjp"><strong>RBM: How do you expect United to set up on Saturday and where could Everton cause United the most problems?</strong></p>
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<p id="NuyPWg"><strong>PK: </strong>If Hojlund can’t play then I’d expect pretty much the same thing we saw last Saturday. He gets the nod (probably over McTominay) if he’s fit.</p>
<p id="3zJ42g">Where can Everton cause problems? The same places every single team every week causes problems: be organized, attack quickly, counterattack, and, of course, set pieces. Everton played really well against United at Goodison Park, and it’s truly bizarre that United won 3-0. They were plagued by not finishing their chances. Be a little more efficient and score an early goal, and United will have problems. </p>
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<p id="7I6Vwh"><strong>RBM: Finally, what’s your prediction for Saturday’s affair?</strong></p>
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<p id="u8BsrW"><strong>PK: </strong>Teams have been coming to Old Trafford this year and doing one of two things:</p>
<p id="eHY4K3">1. Being intimidated by Old Trafford and the name Manchester United and playing scared. These teams lose.</p>
<p id="jtJ1OI">2. Recognizing United are vulnerable and having a go at them. These teams have had success. </p>
<p id="1Zi8n7">Part of me thinks Everton might fall into the trap of the former camp. Then again, last season, Everton showed up and played a suicidal high line that was their undoing. Everton struggle to score goals and I can see either of those scenarios happening again.</p>
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<p id="bJeBAN">I’m going 2-0 United. </p>
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<p id="iFzZfV"><em>Our thanks to Pauly for his time, as always</em></p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2024/3/9/24094962/manchester-united-vs-everton-match-preview-opposition-view-red-devils-confident-streak-old-traffordTrent Nelson2024-02-24T14:33:51+00:002024-02-24T14:33:51+00:00Brighton vs Everton: The Opposition View | Hosts favoured to win
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<img alt="Everton FC v Brighton &amp; Hove Albion - Premier League" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/f3Otumm0xoBTC6jvMkd1X4H80To=/0x154:4897x3419/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73161479/1790972568.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>NOVEMBER 4: Simon Adingra of Brighton & Hove Albion and Dwight McNeil of Everton in action | Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Blues need a win while Brighton looks to continue their hot form recently</p> <p id="0rs3hB"><a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com">Everton</a> need three points. They needed three points last week too, and could have used them in the prior matches as well. Three have not been acquired from a single match in the Premier League since December against Burnley, and that must change sooner than later.</p>
<p id="caeuSh">The Blues continue to live dangerously close to relegation once again, with their position only secure as of now because of the unfortunate run of matches that Luton Town have had to play recently; the Toffees know they have to take matters into their own hands once again - point deduction reduction or not.</p>
<p id="GKIoNw">But Roberto De Zerbi and Brighton continue to perform like a serious side, albeit an inconsistent one on occasion. On the south coast on Saturday, the team will look to keep European pressure on the likes of <a href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com">Manchester United</a> and the like, but Everton will be no easy go to be sure.</p>
<p id="MpC9jy">So just who will win? Only time will tell.</p>
<p id="Fy2qg0">Prior to Saturday’s game, we spoke to <a href="https://twitter.com/jeremysmith98"><strong>Jeremy Smith</strong></a>, Brighton fan and football writer and podcaster at <a href="https://twitter.com/FrenchFtWeekly"><strong>French Football Weekly</strong></a>:</p>
<p id="201srn"><strong>RBM: To begin with, Brighton have been positive but inconsistent this season; what is the mood like around the AmEx and the south of the country right now?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="6Oe1BF"><strong>JS: </strong>Generally very good. There is a little bit of frustration at the lack of consistency, but that comes with juggling Europe for the first time in our history and the ridiculous number of injuries we’ve had. We’re seventh, we topped our Europa League group and are into the last 16, we’re still in the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/fa-cup">FA Cup</a> - and we’ve done that with barely any fit full-backs or wingers for most of the season, so in many ways, we’re doing better than we have any right to be.</p></blockquote>
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<p id="Ugz1qq"><strong>RBM: What is this team doing well this year, and what is it struggling with?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="fymCX2"><strong>JS: </strong>Early in the season, we were scoring very well, but recently there have been a couple of matches where we’ve missed too many chances and thrown points away. Weirdly, I think we’ve defended well this season, even though we’ve only kept a couple of clean sheets. I think what we - or de Zerbi - have done best is constantly adapt our style of play to accommodate who is fit and available. We lost our two world-class central midfielders in the summer and arguably haven’t replaced one of them; we have had to play at times with no width. Yet RDZ always seems to find a way for us to be competitive. Credit also goes to the way that we are able to bring in young, inexperienced players - even those playing out of position - and give them the support and confidence to perform brilliantly from the start.</p></blockquote>
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<p id="Y8WrUQ"><strong>RBM: Talk to us about the consistency of the team; is it a matter of the team becoming younger and having to learn certain lessons, or is it more up to fixtures and execution than personnel?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="N27OwI"><strong>JS: </strong>See all of the above - I think the main factors are the additional fixtures and travel that come with being in Europe and the injuries - which have meant bringing in youngsters and changing tactics. March is out for the season, Enciso hasn’t been able to play, yet this season, Fati, Adingra, and Mitoma have both been out for periods, Estupinan has for a long time, and we’ve had no full-time right back for pretty much the whole campaign and Lallana/Welbeck/Milner inevitably keep needing breaks. Thank goodness for Pascal Gross, who has played pretty much every position except goalkeeper this year!</p></blockquote>
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<img alt="Everton FC v Brighton &amp; Hove Albion - Premier League" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/pSruAIA3hdjTylLJmzRQIUqHHX8=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25302416/1763965452.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Jess Hornby/Getty Images</cite>
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<p id="K8klU7"><strong>RBM: Will Roberto De Zerbi be with the side next year? If not, then who might be a suitable replacement? Surely it will be difficult to strike gold three times in a row?</strong></p>
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<p id="94gWgT"><strong>JS: </strong>That’s the worry! I think there’s a good chance he’ll leave in the summer. He’s ambitious, he generally doesn’t stay anywhere for very long, and he was clearly unhappy that we didn’t do the transfer business that he wanted in January, and there are going to be some very big jobs available. </p>
<p id="bk1yba">We’re realistic that he’ll go sooner rather than later and are enjoying the ride in the meantime, but the worry is exactly that - can we find another great replacement? No reason to doubt our recruitment team after getting it right so often, but there are only so many great, available coaches around. As a French football pundit, I would be happy to see us go for Franck Haise or even maybe take a punt on Will Still (who this week publicly said that he wants to coach in England).</p>
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<p id="010XLB"><strong>RBM: What are the side’s ambitions at this point in the season? What are the aims for the rest of the campaign regarding finish and the like?</strong></p>
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<p id="qYRDTA"><strong>JS:</strong> I’m not sure whether it’s realistic to talk in terms of trophies - we can beat anyone on our day, but obviously, there are so many strong teams left in the FA Cup and Europa League, and so much depends on the luck of the draw. But I think deep runs and lots more great experiences in those two competitions would be great (beating Ajax home and away, coming back from 0-2 down at the Velodrome, last-minute winner at home to Marseille - these are the greatest moments in our history!). </p>
<p id="OfKu8V">In terms of the league - I think matching sixth place was always going to be tough, and although publicly, we keep talking about the top 10, somehow qualifying for Europe for a second straight year would send out such a strong message that we’re not a flash in the pan - and it might be the difference between de Zerbi staying and going!</p>
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<p id="yZln14"><strong>RBM: How do you expect Brighton to set up on Saturday and which players do you think might be able to cause </strong><a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com"><strong>Everton</strong></a><strong> the most problems on the south coast?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="YAVFpZ"><strong>JS: </strong>Subject to fitness/injuries, I would expect a 4-2-3-1 again, which worked so well at Sheffield United. Mitoma was knackered, so his injury was probably a blessing in disguise to give him a rest - he looked back to his best last weekend. And Adingra is full of confidence after setting up both goals in the AFCON final. They’re the dangermen, I think.</p></blockquote>
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<p id="3Yo0ph"><strong>RBM: Finally, what’s your prediction for Saturday’s affair?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="A1pT9u"><strong>JS: </strong>Our matches always seem to come up with something surprising - a couple of epic 3-2s last season when we smashed you at Goodison, but then you returned the compliment at the Amex - so it’s hard to predict. We haven’t won two straight league matches since September, but with players now coming back from injury and hopefully an extra buzz at the ground after today’s Europa draw, I’m going for us to squeak a 2-1 win.</p></blockquote>
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<p id="ERIMY4"><em>Our thanks, as always, to Jeremy for his time.</em></p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2024/2/24/24081917/brighton-vs-everton-the-opposition-view-hosts-favoured-to-win-de-zerbi-adingraTrent Nelson2024-02-19T09:00:00+00:002024-02-19T09:00:00+00:00Everton vs Crystal Palace: The Opposition View | Weary Eagles hoping to derail Blues
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<img alt="Everton v Crystal Palace - Emirates FA Cup Third Round Replay" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Ie4gXSwf8okT7n8loygNp7j7p8A=/0x0:5114x3409/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73149215/1933428402.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>JANUARY 17: Nathan Patterson of Everton and Tyrick Mitchell of Crystal Palace during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round Replay match | Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Blues need three points against a depleted Crystal Palace</p> <p id="BSNqit"><a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com">Everton</a> have been positive in recent weeks, yet have certainly stalled some since catching a bit of a hot streak from mid-September to mid-December; three points would push them out of relegation territory ahead of Luton Town, but it will not be simple. Against Crystal Palace, they face a side for a fourth time this season; yet they can’t be said to be in as good a condition as in the other three.</p>
<p id="vD1F2V">The side recently took a 1-0 victory against the Eagles, and will be looking to go back-to-back against a side in some disarray as of now.</p>
<p id="UO6lIR">Reports suggest that Roy Hodgson is on the way out of Palace, yet nothing has been solidified yet. The side is sliding and if the Toffees can take three from a team that has had the best of them this year, they will be only two points off of them in the race to stay away from relegation territory.</p>
<p id="lcqmdN">But between an out-of-form side, and one scrapping and clawing, who will win on Monday night? Only time will ultimately tell. </p>
<p id="SQUhcP">Ahead of Monday night’s big game, we spoke to Jon Hanna from Palace site <a href="https://theeaglesbeak.com/"><strong>The Eagles Beak</strong></a>:</p>
<p id="c9ZC4y"><strong>RBM: First off Jon, how has the season gone? It’s been an inconsistent year for sure, so how are the supporters and the side handling the year?</strong></p>
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<p id="GEris2"><strong>JH: </strong>The season has been underwhelming, really. Given the positive and even exuberant end to last season, this season has effectively stalled from the off. Probably running it back with Roy, when he was only ever going to be a stop-gap, inevitably has led to a sense of treading water. </p>
<p id="uXdkiW">Add to that significant injuries to three of our four most prominent players (Eze, Doucoure, Olise)...</p>
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<p id="eqNADu"><strong>RBM: Tell us about the relationship the supporters have right now with Roy; how and why has it soured?</strong></p>
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<p id="lsAwwe"><strong>JH: </strong>So a couple of things - firstly, I think there is a pragmatism to Roy that works well when you pick up points/win games. But if you are losing most games, there is a sense of what the point is in playing essentially negative football, giving little excitement to the match-going fan while also not getting the points.</p>
<p id="Zahmdu">Added to that he has made several strange comments to the media, which have betrayed a mistrust of our younger players and some have seemed to be quite targeted at the fans for ‘not knowing how good we’ve got it’ </p>
<p id="fvd6FX">I don’t know a single Palace fan who thinks we are entitled to anything, but we do want to see our team giving it their best, at least trying to play positive, assertive football. Of late, we haven’t looked close to that. </p>
<p id="jlUQfY">Lastly, Roy has definite favorites whose continued selection has mystified the fanbase, as well as his stubbornness about changing things via subs. </p>
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<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Crystal Palace v Everton - Emirates FA Cup Third Round" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/0jzjCspIhitWvEZHNirSib8GEXU=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25293714/1909500333.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Vince Mignott/MB Media/Getty Images</cite>
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<p id="XsHrok"><strong>RBM: What does this side need to do - other than staying healthy - to make a more consistent team moving forward?</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p id="2u96Jy"><strong>JH: </strong>Staying healthy is a critical one! Aside from that, I’m very positive about our 2 January recruits; both Wharton and Munoz have already demonstrated lots of promise and will only get better. </p>
<p id="ArFphs">The big question is how well our squad can take to the (almost definite) new manager’s approach. </p>
</blockquote>
<p id="Dt1TQT"></p>
<p id="hky8MB"><strong>RBM: </strong>would be changed to ask what the new boss, caretaker manager or prospective candidate would bring in juxtaposition to Roy and Patrick Vieira before him.</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="S0HON2"><strong>JH: </strong>So I think more than anything, we just need a change, a different voice, a different approach. I think with any manager, there is a risk that things run dry or lose their effect. But also, our team just doesn’t look like they know how to win games at the moment. </p>
<p id="3fS6dD">So a confident approach where Glasner (or someone) can instill a way of playing, a football philosophy if you will, which can instill a belief that this is how we are going to play, and if you do these things, it will lead to chances/goals/wins rather than basing our approach around staying in games and allowing for individual moments of class to be the difference. </p>
</blockquote>
<p id="LriwGV"><strong>RBM: Who is an underrated dangerman for the Palace team that people do not recognize as readily as they should?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="olVCxt"><strong>JH: </strong>I think Mateta has quietly had a really effective season. </p></blockquote>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="FBL-ENG-PR-CRYSTAL PALACE-CHELSEA" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/iajDZ2yS8i6SJtzjeaAa8jg3VjQ=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25293715/1998834515.jpg">
<cite>Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="m5E3Mq"><strong>RBM: How do you expect Palace to set up on Monday, and which of Palace’s players do you think can cause </strong><a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/"><strong>Everton</strong></a><strong> the most issues in the game itself?</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p id="aBhzOT"><strong>JH: </strong>It is still a bit murky, but I think it's looking like it might still be Roy for this final game (which is a bit of a strange approach if everyone knows he’s leaving after that - making it feel a bit like a testimonial, when in fact it's a massively important six pointer!)</p>
<p id="Ao1RdP">If it's Roy, I expect him to stick to his 4-2-3-1; if it’s Glasner, who knows, but I think we could see a first outing of the 3- 4 -2 -1 and expect Munoz to be given license to become an extra attacker from nominal right wing-back.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="xdQUf0"> </p>
<p id="24ekjU"><strong>RBM: Finally, what’s your prediction for Monday’s affair?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="JvF11g"><strong>JH: </strong>I think a blood and thunder 2-2 feels about right. </p></blockquote>
<p id="tmrRwo"></p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2024/2/19/24076905/everton-vs-crystal-palace-the-opposition-view-eagles-manager-hodgson-glasner-eze-olise-doucoureTrent Nelson2024-02-09T18:17:20+00:002024-02-09T18:17:20+00:00The Opposition View: Everton at Manchester City | Surging champs exude confidence
<figure>
<img alt="Everton FC v Manchester City - Premier League" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/BR2o2IMxQEqv_iNQPIL6mCWb_pk=/0x0:2222x1481/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73126376/1880768853.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>DECEMBER 27: Jack Grealish of Manchester City and Nathan Patterson of Everton during the Premier League match | Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Getting anything at the Etihad remains a herculean task</p> <p id="L9MIxt">Coming off of a last-minute stunner of a draw against <a href="https://cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com">Tottenham Hotspur</a>, <a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com">Everton</a> will be looking to take at least a point from another top-table side - but this one is always a bit more difficult than all the others.</p>
<p id="X0fqhZ"><a href="https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com">Manchester City</a> is a juggernaut once again, and getting a healthy Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne is bad news for every side across England and Europe - not simply the Toffees. But it is, after all, the Blues who play the Citizens next, and so it is Everton who are now pressed to solve one of the most difficult equations in all of football.</p>
<p id="p1brKb">Luckily, Sean Dyche knows how to take points from Pep and company, and this side has the ability to challenge Manchester City with physical football, tight organization, counterattacking when circumstances allow, and proper finishing; whether we get all of those tenants together, however, only time will tell.</p>
<p id="4eNNsp">And who will win in this match in Manchester? In the final analysis, we will have to watch to find out. </p>
<p id="vjTj8d">Prior to Saturday’s affair, we spoke to <a href="https://twitter.com/saul_434"><strong>Saul Garcia</strong></a>, City fan and writer for their dedicated SB Nation page, <a href="https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com/"><strong>Bitter and Blue</strong></a>:</p>
<p id="ud4X3Y"><strong>RBM: Straight off, City have been in brilliant form as per usual; what are the feelings like around the training ground, the supporters, and side in general?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="519Bcy"><strong>SG: </strong>Yes, it seems an annual tradition now: rip off several straight to start the Spring. Around the club, everyone is buzzing; rightfully so, as the club finally has everyone healthy and is in a fabulous run of results. Supporters, most of them, are keen that this City can get a title or two, and with the players we have, why not dream of it all?</p></blockquote>
<p id="pXJfEv"></p>
<p id="g37P94"><strong>RBM: With Manchester in prime position to overtake </strong><a href="https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/"><strong>Liverpool</strong></a><strong> on points this week, tell us about how the team has persevered without KDB and Haaland for large swaths of the season?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="Y6YJAl"><strong>SG: </strong>It’s been down to resilience by Pep Guardiola and his players. Contrary to popular belief, City have a very thin squad, and Pep has experimented with Julian Alvarez and Phil Foden, who, along with Bernardo Silva, have performed admirably well in big spots and sometimes not at their customary positions. Add a return to form for Ruben Dias, and City has successfully navigated the injuries of two key players.</p></blockquote>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Manchester City v Everton FC - Premier League" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-7OCFj7HvGI38Q1FY97Csogkzfk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25277022/1453509201.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Joe Prior/Visionhaus via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="907pHX"><strong>RBM: What has the return of Kevin De Bruyne meant to this side, and what does he provide that is lacking during his absences?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="N51E9X"><strong>SG: </strong>It means so much, given he is the soul of the side. His being out there translates a calmness to the rest of the squad, and they will no doubt be up for continuing this stream of wins.</p></blockquote>
<p id="QjENyz"></p>
<p id="Juk1z0"><strong>RBM: What are the team’s expectations across all their remaining competitions going forward?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="sQfVZ2"><strong>SG: </strong>Win it all. City is City, after all, and the expectations are sky high, with Pep Guardiola leading them, of course, so it will be about playing every game like the last and ensuring enough strength to fight for the remaining three titles.</p></blockquote>
<p id="Y5cA23"></p>
<p id="JilZTX"><strong>RBM: How do you expect City to set up this Saturday, and who do you think could cause Everton the most problems?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="7yRQp3"><strong>SG: </strong>I expect a similar lineup to midweek that includes a hungry Erling Haaland, who is back after over a month on the shelf. This could be where he gets his return goal. <br>Lineup: Ederson: Gvardiol, Ake, Dias, Walker: Rodri, KDB, Foden: Bernardo, Haaland and Alvarez.</p></blockquote>
<p id="1NbDNS"></p>
<p id="EAfW7U"><strong>RBM: Finally, what’s your prediction for this Premier League showdow</strong>n?</p>
<blockquote><p id="Usexlh"><strong>SG: </strong>At home, I fancy a City win with everyone being healthy. 3-1 Manchester City</p></blockquote>
<p id="I2Zu2J"></p>
<p id="PDPJnk"><em>Our thanks to Saul for his time.</em></p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2024/2/9/24064258/manchester-city-everton-opposition-view-surging-champs-exude-confidence-guardiola-dycheTrent Nelson2024-01-30T16:27:50+00:002024-01-30T16:27:50+00:00The Opposition View: Everton at Fulham | Cottagers test for the Toffees
<figure>
<img alt="Everton v Fulham - Carabao Cup Quarter Final" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/aKxZ47wFDCAsLxoC0AGDwc7_F8A=/0x0:3810x2540/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73096937/1869654384.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>DECEMBER 19: Rodrigo Muniz of Fulham is challenged by James Tarkowski of Everton during the Carabao Cup Quarter Final match | Photo by Joe Prior/Visionhaus via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Stuttering Fulham looking to bounce back after dual cup exits</p> <p id="2wRVle">While January has been a slow month as it concerns transfers as well as matches, <a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com">Everton</a> can end the month on a positive note with three points in London - but they’ll have to do it against a side that has had their number this season thus far.</p>
<p id="kYiA2d">Fulham has been inconsistent this season otherwise, but against Everton, has found success. A tough opening year loss was followed by a difficult loss thanks to penalty kicks at the end of the quarterfinals of the EFL Cup, but in a world where the next game is largely all that matters, a victory and three points against the old Blues boss as February looms would prove massive for the standing and confidence of this team of Toffees.</p>
<p id="izTddC">Yet, who will ultimately win? Of course, only time will tell, but in the meantime, we have some insight concerning the Cottagers.</p>
<p id="psPXWc">Ahead of Tuesday’s Premier League match between <a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/"><strong>Everton</strong></a> and Fulham, we spoke with <a href="https://twitter.com/russ_goldman?s=21&t=naiYuLGompl6Pgtqnu6yUw"><strong>Russ Goldman</strong></a> of SBN’s dedicated Fulham site <a href="https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/"><strong>Cottagers Confidential</strong></a> and the <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cottagetalk"><strong>Cottage Talk</strong></a> podcast<strong>:</strong></p>
<p id="kfMBed"><strong>RBM: First off, tell us what Fulham have been going through in the Premier League and otherwise since last we spoke before the EFL Cup match? </strong></p>
<p id="dwLkee"><strong>RG: </strong>Well, it has been an up-and-down time since then for Fulham. There have been a few disappointing losses to Burnley and Bournemouth, but they beat Arsenal at home, which was amazing. Unfortunately, they followed it up with the two recent cup losses. </p>
<p id="NtUlUL"></p>
<p id="8uN9h4"><strong>RBM: Who has been shining for the club recently? Offensively and defensively? </strong></p>
<p id="h2EMfy"><strong>RG: </strong>Defensively, I would go with Calvin Bassey, but he is currently away at the African Cup of Nations. Going forward, I would say that Willian is still very dangerous, and he is a serious threat on the left-hand side. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Everton v Fulham - Carabao Cup Quarter Final" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ukDrno5rZbWYf3mqcUBL23rgzMk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25256605/1869654381.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Joe Prior/Visionhaus via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="Li6Ldo"><strong>RBM: How has Everton’s old friend Alex Iwobi done in a Fulham shirt since making his move back to London to play for Marco Silva? </strong></p>
<p id="WFfeTb"><strong>RG: </strong>Besides Palhinha, he has been Fulham’s best player, and they miss him dearly as he is also away at the African Cup Of Nations. </p>
<p id="9zjtQZ"></p>
<p id="btKLD2"><strong>RBM: Will Fulham be looking to add any players in the final days of January? I know at last check, we spoke about positions of need, but any specific names? </strong></p>
<p id="DPTViK"><strong>RG: </strong>I would hope they would bring in a striker and possibly a central midfielder, but at this point, Fulham look unlikely to get much done. </p>
<p id="ilwAvu"></p>
<p id="BAJT3P"></p>
<p id="cgz8kl"><strong>RBM: You predicted not too long ago a seventh place finish on the league table; are we sticking with this, and if so, why? </strong></p>
<p id="V6VGoY"><strong>RG: </strong>Well, my prediction is not going to happen, but I will own my prediction and not change it. The Summer <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/transfer-rumors">Transfer Window</a> was a serious letdown and I was predicting that position based on Mitrovic not leaving, They really did not replace him so I got this one wrong.</p>
<p id="5tN7gY"></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Fulham FC v Chelsea FC - Premier League" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/rF2tC5aJBggTUIGtXEXUMOc1Awo=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25256610/1246191203.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="Pajv6f"></p>
<p id="QDUP78"><strong>RBM: How do you expect Fulham to set up on Tuesday?</strong> <strong>Which of Fulham’s players do you think could cause Everton the most issues in the match? </strong></p>
<p id="YzX4Sa"><strong>RG: </strong>Willian and Antonee Robinson, I think, will give you all kinds of problems on the left-hand side. I expect Fulham to set up in a 4-2-3-1</p>
<p id="trkXxX"></p>
<p id="LZH4R0"></p>
<p id="OZDEcD"><strong>RBM: Finally, what’s your prediction for the game? </strong></p>
<p id="zeztrz"><strong>RG: </strong>I am going for a 2-1 Fulham victory, but it won’t be easy at all. </p>
<p id="YL8K45"></p>
<p id="UM9xav"><em>Our thanks to Russ for his time.</em></p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2024/1/30/24055408/everton-at-fulham-the-opposition-view-premier-league-match-preview-marco-silvaTrent Nelson2024-01-27T14:13:42+00:002024-01-27T14:13:42+00:00Everton vs Luton Town: The Opposition View | Hatters confident in second visit to Goodison this season
<figure>
<img alt="Everton FC v Luton Town - Premier League" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/OW9tiIWsT32e6l1wNoLeo2WHTIo=/0x0:5568x3712/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73089623/1709880200.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The two sides mired in the relegation zone will duel in the FA Cup Fourth Round today</p> <p id="replybody1">With January nearing its end, and Luton Town standing in the way of these Toffees in the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/fa-cup">FA Cup</a>, there is simply no time to wait; <a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com">Everton</a> must win - in the Premier League, and in the FA Cup as well.</p>
<p id="jXNGes">The Hatters have struggled since promotion this season to the Premier League, but domestic cup competitions are always opportunities to build momentum and strive for silverware. </p>
<p id="NRcoYu">But who will win in today’s match? Only time will ultimately tell.</p>
<p id="8DvWHz">Ahead of Sunday’s game, we spoke to <a href="https://x.com/kevshat?s=21&t=naiYuLGompl6Pgtqnu6yUw"><strong>Kevin Harper</strong></a>, freelancer, podcaster, and Luton Town Supporter Trust Media Officer:</p>
<p id="wW2tLn"><strong>RBM:</strong> Straight off, with Luton Town struggling in their first return to the top of English football in some thirty years, what is the feeling like around the club and supporters - even as the year has been difficult thus far? </p>
<blockquote>
<p id="niE5Tw">It has been no more difficult than anyone expected it to be. If anything, we have been more competitive than expected so the feeling around the club and supporters is extremely positive. </p>
<p id="tqYYwy">We were more hopeful of staying up rather expecting to do it so I think if you had offered us the position of one point from safety with a game in hand deep into January we would have taken it. We’re just loving the Premier League experience and the fact that we are competitive at the same time is making it even more exciting.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="nZ7LOu"> </p>
<p id="v6cZIN"><strong>RBM:</strong> For those of our readers who do not know football history so thoroughly, please tell us about the history of this team, and what last year’s promotion meant to the side?</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="i9T9WB">10 years ago Luton were trying to make our way out of the National League having gone through all sorts of financial trouble which forced us out of the Football League. Step by step we have improved every season since then to the point that five years later we were embarking on Championship football. That was the level most people thought was our ceiling but then Rob Edwards came along and took us to the Promised Land. </p>
<p id="iCL1RO">Luton haven’t been in the top flight since 1992 so for most match going fans this is their first taste of watching Luton taking on the elite every week which was huge but the biggest thing about the promotion is that it means we have the funds for our new ground which is going to bring stability to the club and ensure its long-term future. Whatever happens from here on in, nothing will be more important than that. </p>
</blockquote>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Everton FC v Luton Town - Premier League" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/I7lMt39WGYDibQD-8RhN_7wvsOQ=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25251521/1700475542.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Mike Morese/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="Xh4sxz"> </p>
<p id="H0OgO8"><strong>RBM:</strong> Now, with that done and dusted, tell us about this particular team, players, boss and all; what did this team do well to get here, and where are they at their best on the pitch when they’re at their best?</p>
<blockquote><p id="XrukHc">We’re already a different team to the one which got promoted. Back in the Championship we were very direct into two physical strikers but now we are able to keep possession and transition up the pitch with shorter passes. Our strengths are still set pieces (as we showed in the league game) and getting the ball out wide and into the box for the attackers to attack but when you have quality like Ross Barkley in the team then you are able to play in many different ways. Barkley is the best player in this team but the likes of Alfie Doughty, Andros Townsend and Albert Sambi Lokonga all play big parts while Gabe Osho and Teden Mengi are having excellent seasons in defence. When Barkley is on it, as he has been in pretty much every game for us, then we are a match for anyone as we’ve shown by giving <a href="https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/">Liverpool</a>, Arsenal and Man City a scare this season already. </p></blockquote>
<p id="oPaC03"> </p>
<p id="qQaMFQ"> <strong>RBM:</strong> What are the weaknesses that have been divined over the first months of the long slog of a Premier League campaign?</p>
<blockquote><p id="hLsgKo">I think the weaknesses we did have in the main have been ironed out. We were a bit naive defensively at the start of the season but from the third game in we have been competitive in nearly every game we have played and we are a much better team now than when we started out in this league. Our weaknesses are definitely not as obvious these days. </p></blockquote>
<p id="yhiy4A"> </p>
<p id="zrCdxJ"><strong>RBM:</strong> Are there any winter window prospects to help the side before the window closes?</p>
<blockquote><p id="i56vtC"> We always tend to come out of transfer windows stronger than when we went into it and I’ve no reason to believe this one will be any different. We tend to do our business quietly and out of the spotlight so I’m sure one or two gems are being lined up to come in before the window closes.</p></blockquote>
<p id="gfhCdC"></p>
<p id="4Ljm16"><strong>RBM:</strong> Can this side remain up, what will it take to do so? Additionally, is that the expectation for the rest of the season?</p>
<blockquote><p id="rMtF3Z">Absolutely it can. If we continue to improve at the rate we have done so far then we can definitely stay up. If we stay up home results will be the key and four of the top five have already been to Kenilworth Road so we have lesser teams to play at home who we can beat. If we get wins in the games we have every chance in then there is absolutely no reason why we can’t stay in the division despite the opinion of the outside world. No Luton fan expects us to stay up. We hope we do but nobody truly expects it. The only expectation is that everyone gives it 100% in every game and give us the best chance and we know that is guaranteed to happen so whether we’re good enough or not we’ll be fine with it. </p></blockquote>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Burnley FC v Luton Town - Premier League" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/hUoH19fdXoBDPD7zXStRkTVz3CE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25251523/1920703365.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Richard Callis/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Ross Barkley has had a new lease of life in his career with the Hatters</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="R36vr3"><strong>RBM:</strong> How do you expect Luton Town to set up this Saturday, and who do you think could cause Everton the most problems in the affair?</p>
<blockquote><p id="5iMfZN"> Same as we did in the league game only we have more quality in our ranks now. We’ll look to press high up and win the ball back and get it into the box for the attackers to go after and we’ll look to make the most of set plays. The day is all set up for Ross Barkley to do his thing isn’t it and remind everyone inside the ground just how good he is. His quality and the delightful left foot of Alfie Doughty are weapons we can use in the game.</p></blockquote>
<p id="myaOhL"></p>
<p id="DBXDYQ"><strong>RBM:</strong> Finally, what’s your prediction for this FA Cup tie? </p>
<blockquote><p id="z1x5j5">3-1 Luton.</p></blockquote>
<p id="xq57rZ"></p>
<p id="doSri7"><em>Our thanks to Kevin for his time.</em></p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2024/1/27/24052609/everton-vs-luton-town-fa-cup-match-preview-the-opposition-view-hatters-confident-edwards-dycheTrent Nelson2024-01-14T13:32:45+00:002024-01-14T13:32:45+00:00Everton vs. Aston Villa: The Opposition View | Visitors confident of a win
<figure>
<img alt="Aston Villa v Everton - Carabao Cup - Third Round - Villa Park" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/FctkGuKWZXt2C1mYQXufP1yV0Iw=/0x0:4125x2750/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73053808/1693712331.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Aston Villa's Douglas Luiz shoots towards goal during the Carabao Cup third round match at Villa Park, Birmingham. | Photo by Nick Potts/PA Images via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Toffees lost their first of the season against Emery’s men, before a wonderful Carabao Cup victory in late September</p> <p id="QEFieV"><a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com">Everton</a> have been going through another difficult stretch of schedule over the last month as 2023 was turning to 2024, the team was doing its best to overcome injuries and tough opposition - and the new year is not much different than the old one.</p>
<p id="xQ3JoE">Teams like Spurs, <a href="https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com">Manchester City</a>, and <a href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com">Aston Villa</a> are rough outs this year, but they must be faced all the same. Wolves have also been a different force this season, having suffered for years since Nuno last had them pushing up the league table. </p>
<p id="C7PBrO">The Toffees know they can beat this side - they’ve done it already this year - although they know they can be beaten as well. Sunday’s match is about a certain conviction of spirit as much as talent and execution.</p>
<p id="FufW0H">But can the Blues take three points from one of the top sides in England while stopping a winless skid at five in a row? Only time will tell, after all.</p>
<p id="wjlrxs">Ahead of Sunday’s game, we spoke to <a href="https://twitter.com/PBVogel"><strong>Phil Vogel</strong></a>, from SB Nation’s dedicated Villa blog, <a href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/"><strong>7500 to Holte</strong></a>:</p>
<p id="B48yam"><strong>RBM: First off, with Aston Villa in absolutely fabulous form thus far this year, what is the mood around Villa Park and supporters right now?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="Wt1zIy"><strong>PV: </strong>The spirits are high at Villa Park, just as the team is at the table. It hasn’t been perfect... but pretty close! There is a giant swell of support for everything on the pitch. I also think there is a bit of shock. No one expected to be discussed among title contenders. The Villa fan base is split in one funny way, some want more media attention for the success of the club, the other half want no one to mention us so we can just keep quietly doing our thing. Internally, I think I speak for most Villa supporters when I say I’m fighting between expecting the bottom to fall out (like happened every March under Martin O’Niell) and daring to dream.</p></blockquote>
<p id="kFLHfJ"><strong>RBM: How has this team taken their game to the next level? Who can be pointed to as why, and why?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="AxTpIn"><strong>PV: </strong>begins and ends with Unai Emery. He has taken a team that was underperforming under the previous manager to near the top of the table with a few additions of his own. It is largely the same squad but he had coached and planned his way to success. He works with every player and his video breakdown meetings are legendary in terms of depth and length. Every player has improved. And every player has bought into the plan. Can it continue at this level ... I don’t know, but I’m hoping so.</p></blockquote>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Aston Villa Training and Press Conference" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/EyhCTjCK91ZpVzl12ZQW-q6lGyA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25225222/1909657652.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Neville Williams/Aston Villa FC via Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>JANUARY 05: Unai Emery head coach of Aston Villa talks to the press during a press conference at Bodymoor Heath training ground</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="XK8AfG"><strong>RBM: To build upon the previous question a bit, what has Unai Emery done to this side to turn it into this formidable side so quickly during his short tenure?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="tFoa0t"><strong>PV: </strong>improving every player... Unai Emery has also taught the supporters to be more accepting of his plans by delivering success. A year ago in the early days of Emery you could feel/hear/see the concerns when the defenders would play out of tight spaces, now the entire club is behind the system. It really is remarkable. There is one big concern right now, can Villa break down a low block. Personally, I think it is one of the most difficult things to do in football and I’m not certain Villa have the ability to do it regularly... but only about five teams in Europe do. </p></blockquote>
<p id="LHgS8M"><strong>RBM: How is the side appraising its European chances after winning Group E of the UECL, and what are the expectations for the rest of the year like across all competitions?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="wnJDA9"><strong>PV: </strong>have the ability to win the competition. We don’t know our round of 16 opponents yet, but I’m very glad to have dodged the round against Europa League dropouts. Villa struggled traveling in Europe so it is by no means a guarantee. Emery is also going to have to be careful with managing minutes because I think the Premier League is the priority (no one has said that publicly, and nor should they). It will take a little luck and maybe some Emi Martinez shootout shenanigans, but supporters are expecting to give it a go. </p></blockquote>
<p id="aR2EwY"><strong>RBM: Will Villa be busy this winter to reinforce their position for the long haul?</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p id="oRMEnn"><strong>PV: </strong>No, I actually don’t expect Villa to make a move unless there is an outgoing player. At the end of December, I could see the very tired legs. We had something like 9 games in 35 days and it was largely the same team (or at least the same 16ish players). Hopefully, a calm start to January has helped some of the recovery, and it looks like Youri Tielemans and Pau Torres are back from their injuries for the Everton clash. </p>
<p id="gGChuN">It is no secret that Emery wants some more depth, but the club isn’t desperate for it. If the right deal is there, the club will make the move. Every supporter knows an injury to Emi Martinez or Ollie Watkins would have the potential to sink the season. But no top-class player is going to come to Villa to sit behind either one of them. </p>
</blockquote>
<p id="Rqrske"><strong>RBM: How do you expect Villa to set up on Sunday, and which of those names do you think might cause the Toffee real harm?</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p id="91X7GJ"><strong>PV: </strong>Martinez, Cash, Konsa, Torres, Alex Moreno, Kamara, McGinn, Luiz, Ramsey, Bailey, Watkins. </p>
<p id="JexCwn">I think we will go back to four in the back. It could easily be Konsa and right back and Diego Carlos partnering with Torres. The midfield of Kamara, McGinn, Luiz is set and playing out of their minds when together. Ramsey has struggled some coming back from a foot injury. Bailey is the danger man right now as Everton know well. His confidence is sky-high... I’ve described him as playing like someone holding down the skill button on FIFA. He is just having fun out there ... but he can turn the ball over in dangerous spots while playing with it. </p>
</blockquote>
<p id="kL0bNz"></p>
<p id="FYFNks"><strong>RBM: Finally, what’s your prediction for Sunday’s Premier League tie?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="8PFeku"><strong>PV: </strong>I’ll say 1-2 to the Villa.</p></blockquote>
<p id="F8EMBC"></p>
<p id="uUZLWA"><em>Our thanks to Phil for his time.</em></p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2024/1/14/24037795/everton-vs-aston-villa-the-opposition-view-visitors-confident-of-a-win-emery-dycheTrent Nelson2024-01-04T17:13:25+00:002024-01-04T17:13:25+00:00The Opposition View: Everton at Crystal Palace | Eagles confident of FA Cup progress
<figure>
<img alt="Everton v Crystal Palace - Premier League" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/oku71qfCU5ltTv0uGZ6SqWeAS1k=/0x0:3668x2445/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73022848/1240772566.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>MAY 19: Jordan Ayew of Palace and Vitalii Mykolenko of Everton during the Premier League match | Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Toffees looks to begin the new year better than they ended the old one</p> <p id="kmQg7v">The Toffees did not end 2023 as well as supporters and the team alike would have wished for, but a new year means new opportunities for <a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com">Everton</a>, while Crystal Palace will be looking to start 2024 just like they ended it.</p>
<p id="LtIjPD">Injuries, bad fortune, and a difficult schedule can be blamed for the Blues recent run of results, but there is hardly any rest in the Premier League, and certainly no pity from any other side; the team could use the momentum a win in the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/fa-cup">FA Cup</a> could give the side, and an eventual trophy remains the main objective outside of staying in the Premier League each year.</p>
<p id="fBzTKF">Standing in there way, however, remains Crystal Palace. Who will win in this midweek affair? Only time will tell.</p>
<p id="22Zd2b">Ahead of Thursday’s FA Cup match, we spoke to Jon from Palace site <a href="https://theeaglesbeak.com/"><strong>The Eagles Beak</strong></a>.</p>
<p id="egF5oz"><strong>RBM: Straight off, Palace bounced back the other day to snag three points after a down stretch for Roy Hodgson and company; what are the feelings like around the training ground, the supporters and team?</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p id="4R7LYR"><strong>JH: </strong>I think the supporters were in a bad place prior to the Brentford game. There was a sense that we were not playing well or getting results. To a degree, we’ve been unlucky with injuries, and I understand Michael Olise will miss this match and be out for ‘an unspecified period’ with a hamstring injury. Having said that, some of that poor luck has come from a combination of Hodgson’s reluctance to rotate as well as a lack of new recruits in the last 2 windows, despite a number of players moving on (most notably Zaha moving to Turkey and McArthur retiring) which is placed as the responsibility of the chairman and director of football. </p>
<p id="Heu94a">I think the fans responded really well at the Brentford game, as did the players. The hope is we don’t lose that momentum by playing an overly weakened team on Thursday. </p>
<p id="UCAMPi">In terms of the team, there does seem to be positivity and there are certainly no rumors of dissatisfaction from the players or anything like that - but it is very noticeable that at the end of the summer 3 of the most experienced leaders (on and off the pitch) moved on - Zaha, Mcarthur and Luka Milivojevic - and while we still have a number of ‘older’ players (e.g. Ayew and Ward) there is maybe a sense that we don’t have the same on the field leadership as the last couple of seasons.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="cF0cxc"></p>
<p id="u1S4O4"><strong>RBM: Tell us about Palace with Roy; does he have much time left with the side or will he be replaced if results don’t improve in general?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="1jLW6F"><strong>JH: </strong>I think unless we are at genuine risk of relegation he is with us until the summer. The chairman/board wanted the time to make the right long-term choice and felt that Roy could give that security blanket. But I don’t think it is likely that he will stay beyond this season. The one other scenario that could change things is if their preferred candidate is available/is about to take another role - but I see that as quite unlikely as I think they will have probably identified a number of possible candidates.</p></blockquote>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Crystal Palace v Everton FC - Premier League" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7qiFPRQ6INxgX5tEkRNrW3vuaDw=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25203474/1252079723.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="f4C8jV"><strong>RBM: Where is the team strong this year and where can it improve upon?</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p id="HxlOid"><strong>JH: </strong>We have two areas of strength - the first everyone knows about is based on the creativity of Eze and Olise - especially when they can play in tandem. We saw at the end of last season and in brief moments so far this year what they can create especially when playing together. </p>
<p id="G6NqIO">The second is our centre-backs. They are genuinely excellent - both individually and as a complementary pair. Guehi gets a lot of plaudits partly because he is young and English - but Anderson is also a class act - and maybe brings a bit of toughness we can sometimes lack.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="Ps01Wr"></p>
<p id="qIJwOs"><strong>RBM: Are there any winter window prospects now that the window is open?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="N0tiIC"><strong>JH: </strong>In all probability, loan deals - that’s what Chairman Steve Parish has suggested is the focus. It’s been suggested we will look to reinforce our left-hand side - both in attack and defence and an experienced addition in central midfield. </p></blockquote>
<p id="0v8In0"></p>
<p id="OWmVIt"><strong>RBM: What are the team’s expectations in this competition and the Premier League?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="I8G07d"><strong>JH: </strong>Realistically to stay in the Palace zone of 11th - 14th - sadly it’s likely a year of stasis and avoiding getting sucked too deeply into the relegation fight. </p></blockquote>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Crystal Palace v Everton FC - Premier League" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7RZKs6IE5kVQztCuwsLqw6UgDhU=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25203479/1790382648.jpg">
<cite>Photo Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="6eIWmu"><strong>RBM: How do you expect Crystal Palace to set up this Thursday, and who do you think could cause Everton the most problems in the match?</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p id="VuJeU6"><strong>JH: </strong> A variable 4 -3 - 3 and 4 - 2 - 3- 1</p>
<p id="2JqJsX">Olise is out and Ayew is heading to AFCON, so it’s down to Cup / Cult (delete as appropriate) hero Jean Philippe Mateta and Eze to do the damage. </p>
</blockquote>
<p id="MBS9jO"></p>
<p id="thbulH"><strong>RBM: Finally, what’s your prediction for the weekday FA Cup game?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="bXEiy6"><strong>JH: </strong>Got to be optimistic and go for a 2-1 home win! </p></blockquote>
<p id="dFXayS"></p>
<p id="LSr4o1"><em>Our thanks to Jay for his time.</em></p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2024/1/4/24024999/the-opposition-view-everton-at-crystal-palace-eagles-confident-of-fa-cup-progressTrent Nelson2023-12-30T06:30:55+00:002023-12-30T06:30:55+00:00The Opposition View: Everton at Wolves | Hosts in fine fettle ahead of 2023 finale
<figure>
<img alt="Everton FC v Wolverhampton Wanderers - Premier League" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/O_xGw4xPqNtxJK2j4kThRdLvEN8=/0x89:3978x2741/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73009007/1660951500.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>AUGUST 26: Mario Lemina of Wolverhampton Wanderers and Idrissa Gueye of Everton in action during the Premier League match | Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Wolves have been playing quite well recently, but so have the Toffees</p> <p id="3kMLpQ"><a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com">Everton</a> are back at it before the New Year is upon us all, and a proper match against Gary O’Neil and Wolverhampton is set to test a side that has passed plenty over the last several months.</p>
<p id="GQmo2z">Even with difficult defeats to <a href="https://cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com">Tottenham</a> and the three-time defending Premier League champions <a href="https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com">Manchester City</a>, the Toffees’ year has been fruitful; yet three points against a midtable Wolves side that are playing quite well right now would be a pleasant holiday gift for Blues across the world. It would help the side climb back up towards the middle of the table themselves as well.</p>
<p id="pCMVae">But who will ultimately win? Only time will tell.</p>
<p id="ueoxRT">Prior to Saturday’s match, we spoke to <a href="https://twitter.com/thomasbaugh?s=21&t=cBnLWzoRkrzfOb7U6CHKpg"><strong>Thomas Baugh</strong></a> of <a href="https://www.wolvesblog.com/"><strong>Wolves Blog</strong></a>:</p>
<p id="geO1Kc"><strong>RBM: Straight off, Wolves have bounced back from a difficult start to a place of positive form at the end of December; tell us about the feelings around the club and its supporters please.</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="7ptDuf"><strong>TB: </strong>Compared to where we were at the start of the season, it’s all very upbeat. We sold £150m worth of players and swapped a big-name coach for a much less experienced one, so expectations were modest at best. But the squad has shaped up nicely, and Gary O’Neil has done a great job. His remit was survival, so we’re overachieving in our current position. Lots of positivity going into 2024.</p></blockquote>
<p id="0LdQBD"></p>
<p id="0Mq5aa"><strong>RBM: How has Gary O’Neil changed this team from past bosses? It feels the most comfortable side since Nuno’s departure some time ago.</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="Xx4S6f"><strong>TB: </strong>It feels like we’ve caught up with how Premier League football should be played. Nuno, Bruno Lage and Lopetegui - to an extent - set up defensively, low block, and hardly any pressing. It’s much more front foot under O’Neil. We’ve got pace and energy in the team, so we can close spaces, win the ball higher up, and create more chances.</p></blockquote>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Brentford FC v Wolverhampton Wanderers - Premier League" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5AqsziNRVne0gcrXQ5sxOcRc5VA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25193830/1889192826.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="XGBeao"><strong>RBM: Talk to us about the team’s injuries and names that should be better known by those outside of the fan base.</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p id="krHYf8"><strong>TB: </strong>We’ve done relatively well on the injuries. Losing Pedro Neto for a few months was a blow because he was arguably the league’s form player at the time. But he’s coming back, and other than a few niggles with Dawson and Hwang that could rule them out of this game, we’re well set.</p>
<p id="08Rf9O">One player I would point out is João Gomes. He gets around the pitch very well and makes a lot of tackles. It wouldn’t surprise me if the vultures were circling in the summer.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="WPxRby"></p>
<p id="GCzKNR"><strong>RBM: Where does this team do well on the pitch, and where can play be improved across the side?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="vgQGV4"><strong>TB: </strong>We’re strong in those pockets of space between the opposition’s midfield and defence. If we can collect the ball in those areas, we have players who make good runs and can move intelligently. I think we’re weak defensively in full-back areas, and high balls to the far post are always a concern. </p></blockquote>
<p id="JzFLtH"></p>
<p id="qjezvQ"><strong>RBM: What are the expectations for this side moving forward this season and in the short term beyond that?</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p id="pYcf31"><strong>TB: </strong>At the start of the season, it was just about staying up, but now I think midtable is a realistic ambition. If we want to get into the top half we have to either become more ruthless in attack or stronger at the back. We have spells of promise in both areas but can fall apart at times too - classic midtable side. </p>
<p id="hJH3kN">In the longer term, it’s just about upgrading different areas of the pitch and trying to get back into European contention, but the completion makes that incredibly difficult.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="zNQvm0"></p>
<p id="D0VbEf"><strong>RBM: Where will Gary O’Neil and company turn to this January to beef the team up further for the rest of the year?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="tTCZrU"><strong>TB: </strong>He’s said he wants a number 9 and another winger. Hopefully, we can get that business done.</p></blockquote>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Wolverhampton Wanderers v Everton FC - Premier League" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/LDAhq55imNAinWyYkKHfi9r8Xws=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25193832/1256515493.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Gustavo Pantano/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="0L0U6R"><strong>RBM: How do you expect Wolves to set up this weekend, and who do you think could cause Everton the most problems in the match?</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p id="r858F4"><strong>TB: </strong>It will be a 3-4-3-type shape. Likely team if players are fit - Sa, Semedo, Dawson, Kilman, Toti, Ait-Nouri, Gomes, Lemina, Sarabia, Cunha, Hwang.</p>
<p id="HhcYKR">Cunha is a key player for us. If we get him into the game, it opens everything up in attack. He’s a powerful runner and a creative force. Definitely one to fear if he’s heavily involved.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="ovK0Rx"></p>
<p id="FVA6ka"><strong>RBM: Finally, what’s your prediction for Saturday’s game?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="iFYiZp"><strong>TB: </strong>I’ll go for an entertaining 2-2. If you hadn’t had that penalty, you’d be right next to us in the table, so I don’t think there’s much to choose between the sides. </p></blockquote>
<p id="0FXaN9"></p>
<p id="yxUMaE"><em>We thank Tom for his time as always!</em></p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2023/12/30/24019295/the-opposition-view-everton-at-wolves-hosts-in-fine-fettle-ahead-of-2023-finaleTrent Nelson2023-12-27T12:59:32+00:002023-12-27T12:59:32+00:00The Opposition View: Everton vs Man City | World Club Champions visit
<figure>
<img alt="Manchester City v Everton FC - Premier League" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/deF4PrSgLPCGu0hnyUtElYv_4zA=/0x71:2828x1956/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73000832/1453872076.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>DECEMBER 31: Manuel Akanji and Ilkay Gundogan of Manchester City look dejected while Vitaliy Mykolenko and Conor Coady of Everton celebrate | Photo by Joe Prior/Visionhaus via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Victory won’t be easy against the defending champs; is it ever though?</p> <p id="IbjwW7"><a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com">Everton</a>, after jettisoning out of danger post-FFP points deduction since November, have recently fallen upon some rotten luck as it comes to results concerning them and around them in the Premier League as well. </p>
<p id="wxMeuQ">Losing to Fulham was just terrible, and we will not be blaming anyone in particular for the result other than that capricious mistress Lady Luck. <a href="https://cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com">Tottenham</a>, on the other hand, was a poor start, mixed with some poor reffing, with a splash of misfortune sprinkled for taste; the results have left a bitter taste in the mouths of the Blues of Merseyside.</p>
<p id="bhpDeJ">Yet this next match is perhaps the most difficult for Everton to play in each year. Against Pep Guardiola and <a href="https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com">Manchester City</a>, Sean Dyche will have to boss a near-perfect affair for the Toffees to stand a chance against a side suffering a down spell of its own - relatively speaking, of course; City will look to firmly jump back into the title race in a strong, midweek tilt against a side that needs once more to create a bit of space between the teams below them and those sharing space with the side on the table currently.</p>
<p id="QwOFac">Who will win? Well, only time will tell - and it’s not telling quite yet either. </p>
<p id="VEFybb">Prior to Wednesday’s post-Boxing Day match, we spoke to <a href="https://twitter.com/saul_434"><strong>Saul Garcia</strong></a>, City fan and writer for their dedicated SB Nation page, <a href="https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com/"><strong>Bitter and Blue</strong></a>:</p>
<p id="RZsyvm"><strong>RBM: Straight off, Manchester City appears to be in a real fight for Premier League prominence this season; what can you tell us about feelings around the club and supporters right now?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="q9WB1q"><strong>SG: </strong>It has improved after the stellar Club World Cup performance and many feel that the lads just needed some sun after a string of bad results in the league. Now that means completing this holiday spell with wins, and if they do that the whole campaign is wide open to win some trophies.</p></blockquote>
<p id="X1qt6p"></p>
<p id="dRypiz"><strong>RBM: Why is this side in the state it finds itself in at this stage of the various campaigns?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="rB3X0S"><strong>SG: </strong>It is a combination of a few variables, injuries - namely De Bruyne’s - small squad size, and now more matches have all done a number on the squad. But they have proved resilient, and the second half of the season could be a typical City run of wins that leads to a title or two.</p></blockquote>
<p id="Krcftf"></p>
<p id="mwhYTM"><strong>RBM: What is this side doing better and worse than previous squad iterations?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="F2DqIJ"><strong>SG: </strong>Better has definitely the squad rotation, though not as much as some supporters want, Pep has shown he will trust others and that is needed as City are in so many competitions. For worse has been the injury luck and stubbornness Pep has shown in increasing the squad size as he still relies on a smaller than most one.</p></blockquote>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Everton FC v Manchester City - Premier League" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/mZdbG3Pq9t3Arof7HkDYYr43E5E=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25188056/1490074010.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="yJ2JJL"><strong>RBM: Are supporters at all concerned that the Everton punishment could be a glimpse into the futures of sides who are found guilty of FFP rule breaches?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="c1RGc5"><strong>SG: </strong>Surprisingly, not at all, the supporters, for the most part, have a deep trust with management, and that extends here, especially after already beating cases vs UEFA and proving themselves in CAS. There has been no real hand-wringing about those charges as of now.</p></blockquote>
<p id="axzQTJ"></p>
<p id="uGkKEt"><strong>RBM: What are the expectations for this treble-winning side for the rest of the season?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="wiO02B"><strong>SG: </strong>It is going to be to compete for everything again. They are still alive in the UCL, PL, and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/fa-cup">FA Cup</a>, so going as far as possible will be the goal. Though I do think most would be content with either the PL or UCl, it will be grand to earn either.</p></blockquote>
<p id="xSIegz"></p>
<p id="mNzagh"><strong>RBM: Is this a matter of winter signings or just getting everyone already on the side healthy and into the flow of the year in the second half of the season?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="rvOiWX"><strong>SG: </strong>Winter signings have been ruled out, and so now it becomes a waiting game as De Bruyne and Haaland are expected back as soon as this weekend, and that will make for a much stronger team. With that would come results as City will need some help to win the PL this time around.</p></blockquote>
<p id="0H4Jos"></p>
<p id="B47IKa"><strong>RBM: How do you expect City to set up this Wednesday, and who do you think could cause Everton the most problems in the game?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="4WgnQR"><strong>SG: </strong>I do think they run back the Club World Cup final lineup that saw Phil Foden play more of a ’10’ role with Julian Alvarez at striker. Those two would cause the most trouble and I’d be remiss not to mention Bernardo Silva, who has had a really good campaign and does not seem to be letting up.</p></blockquote>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Manchester City v Everton FC - Premier League" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/QY09DghwFVT5x04ThSwsL26V_7M=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25188057/1245919381.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Daniel Chesterton/Offside/Offside via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="4Ux1Rx"><strong>RBM: Finally, what’s your prediction for Wednesday’s match?</strong></p>
<blockquote><p id="Yehvm0"><strong>SG: </strong>Away matches are tricky, and this one is no different, but I think the quality of the three I mentioned can be enough to secure a tight win. 2-1 City win.</p></blockquote>
<p id="xKKIHz"></p>
<p id="ahn1LX"><em>Our thanks to Saul for his time.</em></p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2023/12/27/24016098/the-opposition-view-everton-vs-manchester-city-world-club-champions-visit-pep-haalandTrent Nelson