We look at all the latest information, stats and odds, as Everton travel to St James’ Park to take on a struggling Newcastle United side.
No matter if you’re a fan of Everton or whoever, perception can be a funny thing. And in truth, it can often be influenced by whether you’re a positive or negative person.
For example, Evertonians with a glass half full mentality, see a team which has gone four games unbeaten, since Sam Allardyce was officially named as the club’s new manager. On the flip side, there will be those who say he has only been in charge for two of those games, one of which they were fortunate to get anything from.
Regardless, the Allardyce impact is in full effect, as evidenced by Everton climbing up to a mid-table position. The question is, can they keep the recent run of positive results going on Wednesday night, against Newcastle United?
In theory the answer should be yes, even though the match is taking place at St James’ Park. After all, the Magpies are struggling near the bottom of the Premier League, with six defeats in their last seven league games.
There is a certain symmetry to this, given Newcastle have also lost six of their last matches against Everton. And being at home won’t bring much comfort for the Magpies, with the Blues winning three of their last four trips to Tyne and Wear.
However, don’t expect Allardyce to take anything for granted, at least not officially. As reported by BBC Sport, he said:
"“I don’t expect it to be any easier than the Liverpool game. If you sit off for a second then teams will punish you. We have to be 100 percent. We have to play a difficult tactic. Our plan will be slightly different.”"
The sports media can often be accused of trying to stoke up rivalries and animosity. The situation is no different entering Wednesday’s game, with certain individuals claiming Allardyce will want to get one over on Newcastle, after being sacked by owner Mike Ashley back in 2008.
However, Allardyce took a an objective and mature approach to this line of questioning. As reported by Liam Kennedy of the Shields Gazette, he said:
"“It was chosen I wasn’t to be and moved on. It’s the first time in my entire life that I have heard an owner of club regretting letting me go. It was nice of Mike to do that. It got settled. Life too short for grudges.”"
Of course, the sports media can be tenacious in looking for any potential controversy. As such, attention was quickly turned to Allardyce’s previous clashes with Rafa Benitez, who is now Newcastle manger.
However, once more Allardyce dealt with the matter like a pro. Again reported by Kennedy, he said:
"“Past history wasn’t great, recent was OK. I’m amicable with everyone who is the same with me. If they want a drink fine, if not fine. It was a good battle at the time. Liverpool weren’t supposed to lose to Bolton then. he wasn’t happy with our style.”"
In any event, the 63-year-old has enough on his plate at the moment. For example, as we reported on Tuesday, Everton have a significant injury list to contend with, although there a signs some of the walking wounded will be back soon.
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One player who will definitely be available for the Blues is Wayne Rooney and this should concern Newcastle. Rooney has 14 Premier League goals against the Magpies, tied for his most ever against any opponent (along with West Ham United).
Interestingly, and somewhat surprisingly, Newcastle are slight favourites among the bookies. However, we firmly believe Everton will get at least a draw at St James’ Park.
In any event, Allardyce knows what it will take to get the upper hand against the Magpies. As reported by Sky Sports, he said:
"“The crowd at Newcastle, when they are in full flow, really urge their players on. But if you can keep them quiet and get possession, and frustrate them, then the crowd goes quiet.”"
Next: Schneiderlin set to stay, but Mirallas wants to leave
What are you expecting from Wednesday night’s game against the Magpies? What do you think the final outcome will be? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.