Everton: FC Twente will provide good buildup for Europa League
By Paul Taylor
![LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 05: Ronald Koeman, Manager of Everton speaks with his backroom staff during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Everton at White Hart Lane on March 5, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images) LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 05: Ronald Koeman, Manager of Everton speaks with his backroom staff during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Everton at White Hart Lane on March 5, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/e681b3d18c76cc7b95b0d449c31c6c2c83ae2bfcc114229c6944592308273405.jpg)
Everton have two games to prepare for the third qualifying round in the Europa League, starting with Wednesday’s friendly versus FC Twente.
In some respects, it’s hard to believe Everton‘s first competitive game is just around the corner. Next Thursday, on August 27, they will host the first leg of their Europa League third qualifying round tie.
Everton won’t know their opponents until after tomorrow night, when Brann and Ruzomberok play the second leg of their second qualifying round tie. Regardless, the Blues are already in preparation.
This preparation includes two friendly games, starting with Wednesday’s clash in the Netherlands, versus FC Twente. Hoping to build on the momentum of their 2-1 win over Gor Mahia, Everton should benefit from facing decent European opposition.
One player who should be looking forward to the game, is Davy Klaassen. The Dutch international is extremely familiar with FC Twente, after playing for Ajax the previous five seasons.
Regardless, Everton’s recent signing understands the importance of pre-season friendlies. Speaking to Everton TV, Klaassen said:
"“We need to get stronger and get ready for next week so we can play 90 minutes. We have a strong squad, but it’s up to us to play well and prove to the manager we are ready to start the first Europa League match.“Pre-season is all about building fitness, but we have a competitive match coming up, too, so we need to be ready. That and the tactics are the most important thing for the game.”"
Certainly, the 24-year-old’s words should be heeded. After all, he know what he’s talking about, after helping Ajax advance to last season’s Europa League final, where they lost 2-0 to Manchester United.
More from Everton FC News
- Further chaos in Everton takeover as other lenders not keen on 777 Partners
- More madness at Everton as Moshiri now agrees to sell club to 777 Partners
- Everton takeover talk cools after UK govt doubts and further questions
- Takeover talk again as 777 back in for Everton purchase after MSP withdrawal
- Everton striking legend Gray urges Dyche to put Beto and DCL up front
The game versus FC Twente should also provide Evertonians with the chance to see some of their recent signings in action for the first time. In all likelihood, Ronald Koeman will give debuts to Jordan Pickford, Sandro Ramirez and Cuco Martina.
All three player are expected to feature heavily this coming season, as the Blues look to build on a promising first season under Koeman. In that respect, Wednesday evening’s game should not be underestimated for its importance.
Everton need to find a way to gel as quickly as possible, before their European adventure begins. If the Blues fall short in their quest for a top four finish this coming season, winning the Europa League would represent another way to qualify for the Champions League.
Next: Everton weigh up alternatives to Gylfi Sigurdsson
Yes, it’s only a friendly, but what are you most looking forward to seeing in Wednesday’s game?More specifically, which player or players will you be paying attention to? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.