Everton versus Crystal Palace: Facts, figures and odds
By Paul Taylor
As Everton aim to make it two wins in a row, we provide you with all the latest information ahead of their clash with Crystal Palace.
As Everton desperate scramble to place more distance between them and the relegation zone, there theoretically isn’t a better time to face Crystal Palace. No matter how poor the Blues have been at times this season — and there have been plenty of occasions — no one has been as terrible as Saturday’s opponent.
The Eagles have just one win, nine losses, four goals and a -18 goal difference. Ranking worst in the Premier League in each category, it’s no surprise they’re propping up the table.
As such, it’s up to Everton to take advantage of Crystal Palace’s miserable start to the season. And yet, it’s not as straightforward as you might think. (When is it ever, where the Toffees are concerned?)
Since Roy Hodgson has taken over from Frank de Boer, the Eagles have shown signs of life. They’ve picked up four points from their previous two home games, including a surprising but impressive 2-1 win over Chelsea.
As such, certain pundits are predicting a win for Crystal Palace on Saturday against the Blues. Even the bookies seem to be favouring a home victory. (Click here for more details).
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And yet, we still believe Everton have an excellent chance of gaining at least a point at Selhurst Park. They’ve improved themselves in recent games, in terms of showing more passion and effort.
This was perfectly highlighted in their previous game, when the Blues came back from 2-0 down against Watford, to win in dramatic fashion. And it’s all thanks to David Unsworth.
The former defender was not even meant to still be in charge, with Everton recently stepping up their search for Ronald Koeman’s replacement. But here he is, still leading the way and bringing some pride back to the players.
In fact, the more time which passes, the more you wonder if Unsworth should be given the manager’s job, at least until the end of the season? In that respect, if he can lead the team to victory over Crystal Palace, it will only help his case.
Lose, and even the 44-year-old will have to concede maybe he isn’t the man for the job. It’s going to be an interesting 90 minutes on Saturday afternoon.
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Prediction: Crystal Palace 1-2 Everton
The Blues won’t make it easy for themselves on Saturday; it’s just not the Everton away. However, they will do just enough to leave Selhurst Park with three points and put pressure on the board to give Unsworth the manager’s job.
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Is there anything in particular that seems important from the information provided? In addition, what’s your prediction for the final outcome on Saturday? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.