Everton versus Brighton: Latest facts and figures

As Everton prepare to face Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday, we provide you with all the latest information ahead of the clash at the Falmer Stadium.

And so begins the most important period of Ronald Koeman’s time as Everton manager. The next two weeks will effectively determine if he has a future in the position.

Some Evertonians could be forgiven for thinking Sunday’s game against Brighton & Hove Albion, is a good way to start. After all, we’re talking about a team making its Premier League debut this season and was last in the top flight in 1983.

However, it should not be seem as a forgone conclusion Everton will pick up a crucial win. Both teams sit on seven points entering the weekend, with Brighton actually above the Blues as a result of a superior goal difference.

Further, the Seagulls have played well at the Falmer Stadium so far this season, picking up six points in three games. In fact, as noted by BBC Sport, a win on Sunday would equal their top-flight record of three consecutive home victories.

As for Everton, they haven’t exactly been going great guns on their travels recently. Since picking up three points at Crystal Palace last January, they have not won in 11 league games away from home.

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In fact, in general, the Blues have not fared well in Premier League away games under Koeman. As per BBC Sport, he was won just 18.2 percent of his away league games with Everton, compared to 36.8 percent during his time as Southampton manager.

Now, before any Blues fans reach for a quadruple whisky to try and numb the pain and dilute the stress, we do have one positive stat for you to consider. Everton have only lost one of their previous 19 Premier League games against newly promoted clubs, winning 10 and drawing the other eight during that time.

From a betting perspective, the bookies have a Blues’ win as the most likely outcome, albeit ever so slightly. You can click here, to find all the latest odds at Sports Book Review.

Of course, what all this shows is that statistics and information can be manipulated to support any argument, regarding the final outcome in a match. However, last time we checked, results are decided on the pitch, rather than on paper/online.

In that respect, Koeman is fully focused on turning around recent results and getting the team back on track, despite speculation linking him to the Netherlands job. As reported by BBC Sport, he said:

"“The future is not realistic now. We have other business to do at Everton. We need to win and we need to change our situation and our position in the table and that starts on Sunday. That’s the priority for me for the long term.”"

Here’s hoping Everton can get a win on Sunday. Otherwise, Koeman’s chances of being around long-term could disappear quicker than that quadruple whisky.

Next: 3 takeaways from pre-Brighton press conference

Is there anything that stands out for you among the facts and figures presented? In addition, what’s your prediction for the final outcome on Sunday? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.