To Everton, this game had very little significance. The objective for the season to retain their Premier League status had been achieved. After the spine-tingling comeback against Crystal Palace, the Toffees went into this tie in a relaxed mood.
As expected, Everton boss Frank Lampard rang wholesale changes to the team, giving much deserved rest to the likes of Richarlison, Jordan Pickford, Vitaliy Mykolenko and Seamus Coleman. Lampard had indicated that players who haven’t had minutes under their belt will get to play against Arsenal as Premier League status is secured and there’s not much at stake on the final match day for the Toffees.
Tom Davies made his first appearance since November. Jonjoe Kenny returned to the lineup for the first time since the Burnley game. Dele Alli started after his spectacular performance against Crystal Palace. Asmir Begovic got a rare start, his third Premier League start of the campaign. Jarrad Branthwaite was back in the lineup after serving his one match ban and lastly, Demarai Gray started over Anthony Gordon.
Everton were humbled by a 5-1 defeat as Arsenal looked miles better than the Toffees. Mikel Arteta’s men looked dominant right from the start and hardly had any dull moments in their game. Gabriel Martinelli, Cedric Soares, Eddie Nketiah, Gabriel and Martin Odegaard got onto the score sheet for the Gunners whereas Donny van de Beek scored the goal for Everton.
The loss doesn’t mean much as Everton’s status was secured but just goes on to show that so much work needs to be done in the summer as they were outclassed.
Everton player ratings vs Arsenal :
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