Everton will attempt to re-find the form which saw them go unbeaten in six league games, when they travel to London this weekend to face Spurs. Kick-off is set for 5:30 and the game will be refereed by Paul Tierney.
Last weekend, Everton’s impressive spell was ended following a home defeat to Manchester United. The 2-1 loss was suffered deservedly, with individual errors proving the difference. Still, progress was made, and improvement has been evident - comparing this performance to so many made last season.
First however, a look at the hosts. There is no doubt Antonio Conte has taken Spurs to another level this season. He has put his trademark on the squad, most apparent when looking at how Spurs set up with three centre-halves and place great importance on their attacking wingbacks.
As it stands, Tottenham sit third in the Premier League table, having played nine games, picking up an impressive 20 points. Their only league loss this season came against a flying Arsenal team, and Spurs are unbeaten at home this campaign.
Unsurprisingly, Harry Kane has the lion share of their goals, and has been as influential as ever so far. He has also been responsible for picking up Son Heung-Min’s slack, the South Korean has been relatively poor this season, certainly by his standards.
It is unknown at this point whether former player Richarlison will start or even be in the squad for this weekend’s fixture against the Toffees. It is reported he had suffered a slight knock to his knee, so we will have to wait and see.
Swede Dejan Kulusevski is also likely to be side-lined this weekend. The winger was signed permanently this summer after an impressive loan period last campaign, but he has yet to hit the ground running this year.
Spurs will also be without wingback Emerson Royal as he is serving a ban following his red card picked up in their North London derby loss to bitter rivals Arsenal. It is likely Matt Doherty will take his place, as he did against Brighton last week.
Moving onto the visitors, Everton have been handed some positives since that frustrating loss to Manchester United last week.
Frank Lampard confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Abdoulaye Doucoure would be returning to the squad, after missing out last week due to a “family issue”. His return emphasises the brilliant depth and talent in Everton’s midfield department.
Lampard also provided an update on Mason Holgate, who is “training really well, but not ready to be in the squad yet”. Holgate has come on leaps and bounds under Frank and could possibly come in at right-back when fit to ease the work-loadof Seamus Coleman, who himself is covering for Nathan Patterson.
Speaking of the Scotsman, he is reportedly only two-to-three weeks away from making a return to action. Great news after his brilliant start to the season was halted following an injury, which due to its nature had hearts in mouths.
Everton also revealed via yesterday’s training ground images that versatile defender Ben Godfrey had returned to the grass. He is only in light training, and Lampard expects he will return after the World Cup break.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s return to match-day action against United saw him looking in good health and fitness, his cameo provided reason to believe he is ready now to start games and provide competition for Neal Maupay.
Spurs are a good side and undoubtedly will be a great test for Everton and for Frank Lampard to see where the team is at. As he stated in his presser, we aren’t anywhere near the level we want to be at, but as a fan it is clear to see the wheels are turning. Let’s hope for a fighting performance, up the Toffees.