Royal Blue Mersey - Everton vs Aston Villa: Premier League Matchday 8It's a grand old team to supporthttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52544/royal_fav.png2014-10-21T17:11:08+01:00http://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/rss/stream/67382902014-10-21T17:11:08+01:002014-10-21T17:11:08+01:00New Attacking Midfield Trio Shines
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<img alt="Ross Barkley and co. helped Romelu Lukaku have one of his best performances of the season." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jo54csQ6InEyEqfvI-GS5lenR2Y=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/42377848/457429200.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Ross Barkley and co. helped Romelu Lukaku have one of his best performances of the season. | Jan Kruger</figcaption>
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<p>With the club's wingers injured, out of form, or both, Roberto Martinez opted to go with precisely zero natural wingers against Aston Villa this week. </p> <p> </p>
<p>When fans saw <a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Everton's</a> lineup for the weekend match-up against <a href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Aston Villa</a>, surely the first thing that jumped out was the lack of wide players. No Aiden McGeady. No Cristian Atsu. No <span>Steven Pienaar</span>. No Kevin Mirallas.</p>
<p>The lack of wide options that injuries and poor form have left Martinez with are not new news. Romelu Lukaku and Sameul Eto'o at times have been forced from their central attacking positions out to wing to accommodate this lack of outside players, but both struggled with the shift.</p>
<p>Finally (and mercifully), that experiment seems to have ended, with Martinez trying out a new solution.</p>
<p>This week, the attacking midfield three consisted of Ross Barkley (hooray!), <span>Leon Osman</span>, and <span>Steven Naismith</span>, with, on paper anyway, Barkley and Osman shifting between left and middle, and Naismith on the right.</p>
<p>In reality though, these three players had a tremendously fluid understanding, which involved all three drifting left, central, and right at times. To see exactly how this played out, let's take a look at the influence of the three players in question, courtesy of fourfourtwo.com.</p>
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<p>Osman has certainly struggled at times this season, but arguably put in his best performance of the campaign this weekend. He completed 49 of 53 passes and drew four fouls, but perhaps what jumps out from this graphic most is how spread across the pitch the lifetime Evertonian was, with approximately half of his passes coming from each side of the pitch. This is a trend we see continue when looking at <span>Ross Barkley's</span> day.</p>
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<p>Barkley had a wonderful day at the office after a long injury layoff. He completed 31 of 38 passes, including three created chances, one of which led to <span>Romelu Lukaku's</span> goal. The budding superstar spent most of the match operating from the left and middle channels, playing the majority of his forward balls down the right, which brings us to Steven Naismith.</p>
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<p>Naismith missed more passes than his English companions in the midfield, but given that the Scot is not a particularly good distributor of the ball, 32 of 43 is nothing to be disappointed with. Naismith's play was more concentrated to one wing, the right, than Osman's or Barkley's, but there is clearly still some action from him down the left as well. To get a sense of exactly how involved Naismith was though, take a look at his passes received.</p>
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<p>Naismith was on the receiving end of two created chances, as well as constantly involved in attacks down the right.</p>
<h4>Effects on other players</h4>
<p>Putting Osman, Barkley, and Naismith together in the midfield helped get the best out of each of the three, but also provided a boost to other players.</p>
<p>First, and most directly, Romelu Lukaku was the beneficiary of this change. The big Belgian was allowed to play centrally, as a lone striker, with several playmakers behind him. These were the keys to his success last season, and led to success for him against Aston Villa as well.</p>
<p>With the team comfortably in possession and three attacking midfielders playing well together, Big Rom was able to focus on making runs behind the defense and getting into attacking positions, rather than trying to be a hold-up, back-to-goal striker.</p>
<p>The result? A goal. Albeit, the finish was less than spectacular, but the buildup surrounding the attack played perfectly to Lukaku's strengths, and given more opportunities of that variety, he will score more goals.</p>
<p>Second, the full-backs benefited greatly from the presence of 'wingers' that were not attached to staying particularly wide. All three of Barkley, Osman, and Naismith are prone to pulling centrally when starting from a wide position, which opened up space for <span>Leighton Baines</span> and <span>Seamus Coleman</span> to get into the attack.</p>
<p>Coleman completed 49 out of 56 passes as a result, as well as 10 of 13 passes in the attacking third, with one created chance. Obviously, he also contributed a goal.</p>
<p>Baines completed 54 out of 65 passes, with 16 of 24 in the attacking third. He created six (!) chances, two of which led to goals.</p>
<p>Of course, we must acknowledge that Steven Pienaar came on for Barkley in the last 25 minutes, but Pienaar has had so much success with this club for the exact reasons that Barkley, Osman, and Naismith did on Saturday. The South African is happy to drift to the right or center, and leaves plenty of space for Baines to make overlapping runs down the left.</p>
<p>With no Mirallas or Pienaar (at least as a starter), Baines and Coleman are the best playmakers in the wide parts of the pitch, and the numbers from the Villa match clearly show how effective they can be.</p>
<p>The attack needs playmakers beyond just those two though. Barkley, we know, is just that. Osman, when utilized properly, is as well. Naismith, though at times not exactly pretty to watch, makes things happen in the attacking third. And as previously noted, Coleman and Baines can, have, and will win matches for Everton Football Club.</p>
<p>To get all of these, Martinez needs to be sure to send out Osman, Barkley, and Naismith until Pienaar is absolutely 100%.</p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2014/10/21/7024971/martinezs-new-midfield-three-barkley-naismith-and-osman-help-evertonAdam.Braun2014-10-20T12:21:10+01:002014-10-20T12:21:10+01:00Lukaku and his 'brother ' Barkley
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<figcaption>Jan Kruger</figcaption>
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<p>Rom is full of praise for his teammate after a successful return to the side against Aston Villa on Saturday.</p> <p><span>Romelu Lukaku</span> believes <span>Ross Barkley</span> can prove to be a catalyst for success for both Everton and England following his return from injury.</p>
<p>Barkley was thrust straight into the starting line-up against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/">Aston Villa</a> on Saturday after recovering from a knee ligament injury suffered on the eve of the new campaign in August.</p>
<p>The 20-year-old has only been in full training for a couple of weeks but showed little signs of rustiness, putting in a typically dynamic display.</p>
<p>As manager <span>Roberto Martinez</span> said after the game: Barkley was "born to play football".</p>
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<p>Barkley's presence seemed to give everyone a lift, both in the crowd and on the pitch. It is perhaps little surprise then that the players put in their most convincing performance of the season so far, winning for the first time in the league at home and keeping just their second clean sheet.</p>
<p>Barkley was involved in much of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/">Everton's</a> good attacking play, including laying the ball off for Lukaku to score the decisive second goal just after half-time.</p>
<p>Lukaku is one of a number of players who have under-performed this season but he has always played better when Barkley has been on the field. It seems no coincidence that he is back scoring and Everton are back winning now Ross is fit again.</p>
<p>Their renewed partnership could well be the key to Everton's success this season, with the Belgian's latest comments also revealing they have struck up a friendship off the field.</p>
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<p class="p1">"He is like a friend and brother to me off the pitch. I am very happy that he is back on it because he brings something that the whole team needs.</p>
<p class="p2">"He has that rawness, that skill, that power. He is a perfect partner for me to play up front with and I am very happy that he is back.</p>
<p class="p2">"There are loads of players who can help me, but he has something that none of us have. I can’t explain it. He is the best player in our team."</p>
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<p>Lukaku believes Barkley can also make an impact with the England side, playing in the number 10 role to help get the best out of captain <span>Wayne Rooney</span>, before eventually replacing him.</p>
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<p>"He will be somebody that the England team will rely on. At the moment, they rely on Wayne Rooney but I think that will be Ross in the future.</p>
<p>"There are a lot of players who want to play No.10 for England and when he is 100 per cent fit I think he is the one who can play there.</p>
<p>"If Rooney is playing up front because he is the captain, then I think Ross will be England’s No.10 definitely."</p>
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https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2014/10/20/7013267/romelu-lukaku-ross-barkley-next-wayne-rooneyTom Mallows2014-10-18T19:02:41+01:002014-10-18T19:02:41+01:00Everton answered some questions against Villa
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<figcaption>Jan Kruger</figcaption>
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<p>The questions surrounding Everton were answered on Saturday at Goodison Park.</p> <p>Coming out of the international break there were a number of questions asked of Everton after the slow start to the season. The team responded with a resounding 3-0 win over <a href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Aston Villa</a> at home. Here is what we learned:</p>
<p><b>Can Ross Barkley return and have an impact?</b></p>
<p>Surprisingly, Barkley started the game. His presence made an instant impact, and it was easy to see the difference with him in the team. Barkley managed a few shots on goal and had the assist on <span>Romelu Lukaku's</span> goal. The 20-year-old played 66 minutes and Evertonians will be relieved to see him back and playing well.</p>
<p><b>How will the defense hold up with so many injuries?</b></p>
<p><a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Everton's</a> defense and injury woes were the two main contributing factors to the slow start. <span>Seamus Coleman</span>, <span>Sylvain Distin</span>, and <span>John Stones</span> have all gone down to injury this season.</p>
<p>Everton really put things right on defense today. <span>Tim Howard</span> kept a clean sheet and won the battle of American goalkeepers. Two defenders scored, with <span>Phil Jagielka</span> opening things up and Coleman putting them out of reach. Antolin Alcaraz started and had a key header to shut down an Aston Villa scoring chance. <span>James McCarthy</span> had an excellent tackle to keep the Villans away from goal. Distin didn't make the team, but the starters played well in his absence.</p>
<p><b>When will the Romelu Lukaku of old show up?</b></p>
<p>Today. Lukaku put in the performance that everyone was waiting for. He won the ball numerous times, showed his strength, and held the ball up. While his goal wasn't one for the highlight reels, and <span>Brad Guzan</span> probably should have stopped it, he did well to control the ball and get the shot off. This is encouraging news for Everton supporters.</p>
<p><b>Can Everton get a lead and keep it?</b></p>
<p>Too many times this season Everton has impressed early in the match, only to give up a devastating late equalizer or game-winner. Today was a different story. Finally, the Blues put in a complete performance. The defense was strong and the team continued to attack throughout the game.</p>
<p>Now that Everton have those first three points in the Premier League at home they will go on the road for the next two matches. Europa League starts back up on Thursday at Lille and the team travels to <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/epl/teams/burnley-fc" class="sbn-auto-link">Burnley</a> next Sunday.</p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2014/10/18/6999267/everton-aston-villa-reaction-premier-leagueSean Yancy2014-10-18T14:18:04+01:002014-10-18T14:18:04+01:00Gamethread: Everton in must-win game against Villa
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<figcaption>Barkley and Coleman both in starting eleven | Richard Heathcote</figcaption>
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<p>Blues in must-win situation at home.</p> <p>We're back to Premier League football after the international break, and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/">Everton</a> remain in dire straits in the table. There is a good chance that we could see quite a few players return to the squad from injury, providing <span>Roberto Martinez</span> some much needed relief across the pitch.</p>
<p>Lineups and team info -</p>
<p>Everton XI: Howard, Coleman, Baines, Jagielka, Alcaraz, Barry, McCarthy, Barkley, Naismith, Osman, Lukaku.</p>
<p>Subs: Robles, Hibbert, Gibson, Besic, Pienaar, McGeady, Eto'o.</p>
<p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/">Aston Villa</a> XI: Guzan; Hutton, Vlaar, Baker, Cissokho; N'Zogbia, Cleverley, Westwood, Richardson; Agbonlahor, Benteke.</p>
<p>Subs: Given, Clark, Weimann, Cole, Bent, Sanchez, Lowton.</p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2014/10/18/6998087/everton-vs-aston-villa-live-gamethreadCalvin2014-10-17T22:57:23+01:002014-10-17T22:57:23+01:00Everton v Aston Villa - Fan Q&A
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<figcaption>Alex Livesey</figcaption>
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<p>We speak with our friend Alex Carson of @7500toHolte about this weekend's game at Goodison park.</p> <p><b>RBM- <a href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Aston Villa</a> Appear to be starting to set some solid foundations again. After a transition year or two and avoiding relegation the Villa look to be on their way back. What do you think the reason is for such a turn around?</b></p>
<p>AC- <span>Early on, they were very, very good defensively but more importantly, started to get the kind of results required of teams finishing in that 8th - 10th position. Winning at Stoke, beating Hull at home — these are the things that separate those comfortable teams from the relegation fodder. So in a certain way, just getting those couple of results coupled with the great win at <a href="https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Liverpool</a>. In reality though, they <i>should</i> (at least when fully healthy) be getting back to having a solid side. Guzan, Vlaar, Delph, and Benteke make a backbone better than most of the division and the rest of the lot isn't necessarily all <i>that </i>horrible. Tactics haven't been great in the past but for the first time in Lambert's time here, he's actually got a full, capable squad. Tactically, he can do what he wants now — that's a large part of it. But there's also a bit of luck — Villa have created 14 fewer chances than the 19th-best team in the league, Swansea. They've been very stout defensively and for the most part, have forced teams to beat them from outside of the box. Guys like Yaya Touré have that ability and you've just gotta tip your cap. The hope is that most teams can't.</span></p>
<p><span></span><b>RBM- A lot has been said about Roy Keane, your assistant coach, in the last week or two. Mainly due many people reacting to reading his new autobiography. He said in his book that he regretted joining Celtic over Everton during his career. What impact has Keane had on your squad?</b></p>
<p>AC- <span>Above anything else, Keane's brought a certain level of confidence to Villa that's been very evident from the get-go. Part of the reason for the quick start in many ways I think has been that confidence. He's helped shore up the defence — at least early on — and it's turned out to be quite fun from a supporters' point of view. Be it tracking his beard, the Mourinho mini-spat, or just simply letting the referee have it, it's nice to see something out of Villa that's a little more fun than usual.</span></p>
<p><b>RBM- Aston Villa vs Everton is one of the oldest match ups in English football, this will be represented with our club 'going back in time' to the old school Everton days. Match programmes, Pre-game entertainment and evenour Toffee lady have received a old day make over! But the two sides have always given the other a good game and I don't expect anything different this weekend. My heart says a 3-2 Everton win. What is your match prediction? </b></p>
<p>AC- <span>Considering Villa haven't scored since that 1-0 win over Liverpool five weeks ago, it's hard to say we're going to get into a track meet. However, the track record of these matches would seem to indicate otherwise. It should be a really interesting tactical battle — I'll presume that Lambert sets Villa up to counter like he typically does against the top sides and it'll be up to you guys to force the action. Ultimately, I think you'll probably get it done so I'll go 2-1 to Everton — but then again, at 11/2, I'd still consider putting a fiver on Villa. It's the type of match that there's absolutely a possibility to take something from but we'll just have to see.</span></p>
<p><b>RBM- Andreas Weimann is a player that I like a lot. His work rate is brilliant and he has a natural finishing touch. He is someone that I would enjoy watching if he was in an Everton shirt. But who out of <a href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Everton's</a> current squad would you have playing at Villa and why?</b></p>
<p>AC- <span>It'd maybe be expected to say <span>Romelu Lukaku</span> or one of the other young guys or <span>Tim Howard</span> (because America) but for me, it'd definitely be Leighton Baines. In recent memory, Villa have consistently had poor play from the fullbacks and it's been even worse on the left side than on the right. I've always rated Baines very highly and as one of the division's best fullbacks and the fact that he's already contributed to seven goals for you guys further reinforces that — especially considering the fact that Villa have just four goals this year. I think Benteke would do wonders having delivery from Baines and it'd give us someone a little better than <span>Aly Cissokho</span> who, compared to what we've had in the past at left back, is a demigod.</span></p>
<p><b>RBM- Come the end of the season Everton will be expected by our own fans to replicate if not beat last season's finish, but with our worryingly slow start that is looking bleak. What will Aston Villa be aiming for come the end of the season and where will your fans be expecting to finish?</b></p>
<p>AC- <span>I kind of talked a little bit about the quiet confidence with Keane and Lambert earlier but I've long suspected that the <i>team's</i> goal for this year is more than just survival — I think they're targeting top-half. We'll see a little bit more whether or not that will happen once we get past this weekend — QPR kicks off a stretch of 13 matches that really only see Villa have to go up against Spurs, United, and <a href="https://stmarysmusings.sbnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Southampton</a> — but I think they're well within their bounds to do so.</span></p>
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<div><span>As for a supporters' point of view? For many, survival. Personally I've been targeting the top-half for a while but I certainly know that isn't the case. If you're of the view that Villa are going to be sold sometime soon, you're probably just gunning for survival. I don't think that's what's going to happen though so to me, the club needs to kick on this year, play a little more attractively, and secure that top-half finish to get on that road back up. As we saw with Shahid Khan's purchase of Fulham last year, even a club that seems pretty safe can go down — Villa have to get back towards the ballpark of Everton and Spurs if they're going to have someone come in, buy the team, and spend some money. A top-half finish would be great for that.</span></div>
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<div><b>RBM- Finally, enjoy the game on Saturday and hopefully Weimann doesn't play as well as i've seen him play before now! Haha. If Aston Villa were to get a result I'd say it would be someone like Weimann or Agbonlahor would get the man of the match. But, if Everton were to win it who would you say our man of the match would be? I'll be having a pound on your prediction so no pressure!</b></div>
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<div>AC- <span>- I could've mentioned this earlier but I think one of the funniest things about supporting Villa is how <i>everyone</i> else seems to rate Weimann when a majority of Villa fans don't. Personally, I rate him (though I wish he'd play off Benteke in a formation with two strikers) because he can finish and if he's on his game, he's really good, but it seems more often than not nowadays, he's not that involved in the match. Then again, if he pops up with a goal, that's all he needs to do.</span>
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<div><span>Back to the actual question at hand though, I've just got this horror image in my head of <span>Gareth Barry</span> being the guy that changes the game for Everton. It's a thing that seems to happen all too often with us — if <span>Steve Sidwell</span> scores against Villa again, I will kill somebody — but especially considering some people thought he'd come back to us in the summer (was never happening but whatever), I think he'll pop up with a goal somewhere that changes things.</span></div>
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<div>Many thanks again to Alex Carson for his superb, detailed responses to our questions this week.</div>
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https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2014/10/17/6995075/everton-v-aston-villa-premier-league-q-and-aAlex.Fitz.EFC2014-10-17T14:54:17+01:002014-10-17T14:54:17+01:00Aston Villa at Everton: Match Preview
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<figcaption>The two managers in early 2014 | Malcolm Couzens</figcaption>
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<p>Everton come back from the international break and face Aston Villa at Goodison Park.</p> <p>The international break has nearly come to an end. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/">Everton</a> will try to put behind them the beginning of the season that has seen only one win in seven games, players not living up to expectations, and a host of injuries to key personnel. The first step on the path to retribution is a must-win match at home against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/">Aston Villa</a>.</p>
<p><b>Team News</b></p>
<p>The story of Everton's 2014-15 season has been the fitness of the team. <span>Ross Barkley</span>, <span>Seamus Coleman</span>, <span>Sylvain Distin</span>, <span>Romelu Lukaku</span>, <span>Kevin Mirallas</span>, <span>Steven Pienaar</span>, and <span>John Stones</span> have all sustained, or are still recovering from injuries. Thursday brought <a href="http://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2014/10/16/6987625/everton-injury-report-aston-villa-ross-barkley-return" target="_blank">good news</a> that Barkley could return as early as Saturday. Distin is back and ready to take over for Stones, who won't play until early 2015. Seamus Coleman, <span>James McCarthy</span>, and Steven Pienaar will be evaluated again before taking the field on Saturday.</p>
<p><b>The Opponent</b></p>
<p>Manager Paul Lambert leads Aston Villa into Goodison Park. He'll bring his assistant, and Everton <a href="http://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2014/10/9/6952289/roy-keane-why-i-wish-i-hadnt-turned-down-a-move-to-everton" target="_blank">admirer</a>, Roy Keane. The Lions occupy tenth place on the Premier League table with three wins, one draw, and three losses. They are a dangerous and fearless opponent, already having defeated <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/">Liverpool</a> at Anfield this season.</p>
<p>The threats to <span>Tim Howard's</span> goal come in the form of Gabriel Agbonlahor and the recently-returned from injury <span>Christian Benteke</span>.</p>
<p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/">Manchester United</a> loanee <span>Tom Cleverley</span> holds down the midfield while <span>Ron Vlaar</span> should be fit to lead the defense against the Toffees.</p>
<p>Aston Villa have their own American goalkeeper, <span>Brad Guzan</span>.</p>
<p><b>What to Watch For</b></p>
<p>Everton come into the match trying to forget about the beginning of a season filled with should-be wins erased by late equalizers, defensive woes, and underperforming or injured stars. Adding to those problems is the pressure of putting all of that behind them and winning a "must-win" game.</p>
<p>Though Villa have already won twice on the road, they come in reeling from three straight, goalless losses to top-flight opponents <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://theshortfuse.sbnation.com/">Arsenal</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/">Chelsea</a>, and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com/">Manchester City</a>. There is pressure on the team from Birmingham to get a result as well.</p>
<p>There will be two notable battles of national team teammates, both at the same position. Brad Guzan and Tim Howard are United States Men's National Team goalkeepers, and Christian Benteke and Romelu Lukaku line up at striker for the Belgian national team.</p>
<p>The key to the match for both teams will be bouncing back from recent poor form. Evertonians will hope that Romelu Lukaku can turn it on, while players like Seamus Coleman and Steven Pienaar can come back from injury and contribute. Aston Villa fans will hope that their team will score a goal, which they haven't managed to do in their last three matches.</p>
<p>Roberto Martinez <a target="_blank" href="http://www.evertonfc.com/news/2014/10/16/martinez-villa-dangerous-away-from-home">thinks</a> that Paul Lambert won't hold back, and will allow his team to attack. Martinez talked about his respect for Lambert's side on the Everton website:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Last year at Goodison we had a really exciting, close game against them and we know we'll have to be at our best to win."</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Times and TV Listings</b></p>
<p>UK - 3pm, no TV</p>
<p>US - 10am NBC Live Extra</p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2014/10/17/6991641/everton-aston-villa-match-preview-premier-leagueSean Yancy2014-10-16T15:41:53+01:002014-10-16T15:41:53+01:00Injury Report: Ross Barkley could return Saturday
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Xb5jvi3zh-gPZeOzlIxcK9RzO6M=/0x10:4000x2677/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/42015464/452890072.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Chris Brunskill</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Ross Barkley to return soon, Distin back with the team, and more injury news ahead of Saturday's clash with Aston Villa.</p> <p><span>Roberto Martinez</span> gave a press <a target="_blank" href="http://www.evertonfc.com/news/2014/10/16/distin-ready-barkley-close">conference</a> Thursday morning, ahead of Saturday's match with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/">Aston Villa</a> at Goodison Park. The biggest news for Evertonians is that <span>Ross Barkley</span> could return as early as this Saturday. Martinez:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"He's desperate to play. It's too early to tell if he's going to be involved on Saturday but I don't see him being too far away."</p>
</blockquote>
<p><span>Sylvain Distin</span> is also available to return to the Everton lineup after his controversial <a href="http://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2014/10/9/6951913/martinez-clears-the-air-on-distin-rumors-everton-training" target="_blank">absence</a>. Martinez insisted that the absence was only due to Distin needing rest. Martinez on Distin:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"I considered it was right for him to have a little bit of a break and regenerate but Sylvain is training well and is fully refreshed now. He's ready to fight for his place."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Distin's return comes just at the right time as <span>John Stones</span> will not return until 2015. According to the Everton <a href="http://www.evertonfc.com/news/2014/10/16/stoness-surgery-success" target="_blank">website</a>, Stones underwent a successful surgery earlier in the week.</p>
<p><span>Seamus Coleman</span>, <span>James McCarthy</span>, and <span>Steven Pienaar</span> will all undergo further evaluation before being allowed to play on Saturday, but Martinez is hopeful for all three:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"They're very close to being available. If they're not available for the weekend, I expect them to be available for the Europa League game."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>It seems that Everton, who went into the international break with a number of key injuries, have escaped that break with no new ailments to report.</p>
<p><span>Kevin Mirallas</span> remains out with a hamstring injury.</p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2014/10/16/6987625/everton-injury-report-aston-villa-ross-barkley-returnSean Yancy2014-10-08T20:04:07+01:002014-10-08T20:04:07+01:00Villa sold out
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/SZj_7KgQhY2VCdg_BRo6O7XtoV0=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/41285170/455870182.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jan Kruger</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The club's poor form has failed to deter the fans.</p> <p>Despite winning just one league game so far this season and a crippling injury list that grows larger by the week, Evertonians have not been put off from going to watch their side.</p>
<p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/">Everton's</a> next home game against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/">Aston Villa</a> on October 18 is completely sold out to home supporters, a huge display of loyalty and faith to a side that has yet to hit the heights this season.</p>
<p>Like last season the club will be running a series of themes before during and after matches at Goodison Park this season and this game is no different.</p>
<p>The game against Aston Villa, the most played fixture in English top-flight football, has been designated 'retro day', focusing on the club's glorious past. Supporters are encouraged to wear retro shirts, former players will be invited to the game while images of the club's past will adorn the stadium.</p>
<p>The game will also see the unveiling of the second giant mural on the side of the Main Stand. Roberto Martinez was the subject of the first mural, bemusing many with the Soviet-style depiction of the Spaniard as our glorious leader.</p>
<p>It has also proven something of a curse given our poor start, maybe the new one will far a bit better.</p>
<p>Fans were given the opportunity to vote on the subject of the next mural, choosing between 'Nine Legendary Number Nines', 'Great Everton Captains' or 'The Holy Trinity'.</p>
<p>Supporters voted overwhelming for the 'Holy Trinity' - the famous midfield trio of Alan Ball, Howard Kendall and Colin Harvey who were the heartbeat of Everton's 1969-70 championship winning side, considered one of the Toffees' greatest ever teams.</p>
<p>The mural, which will also be backlit, will be unveiled ahead of the Villa game and remain in place for the next few weeks.</p>
https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2014/10/8/6948309/everton-v-aston-villa-sold-outTom Mallows