Two of the Premier League’s out-of-form teams are set to do battle this weekend, with three points the priority for both managers.
Jose Mourinho takes his Manchester United side to Goodison Park on Sunday in the hope of ending their turbulent run of just two victories in six games. The Red Devils enter the match off the back of an inspiring win over West Ham in midweek, which secured them a place in the EFL Cup semi-final.
On the contrary, Ronald Koeman must prove his doubters wrong by achieving a Goodison Park victory over their North-West rivals to ignite an impressive run of form. The Toffees have only won two Premier League games in three months following a breath-taking start to the campaign.
The contest will witness two intense and physical teams duel on Merseyside, hoping to change their recent fortunes in the Premier League.
Here are THREE key battles that could decide the outcome of the contest.
Jose Mourinho vs Ronald Koeman
The tactical battle between the two managers could be the fundamental factor in their respected sides winning at Goodison Park.
Both gaffers have received a lot of criticism for their teams’ recent run of results and they are both under pressure to take three points this weekend.
Koeman has the advantage of the home crowd inspiring the Toffees, so Mourinho must ensure his tactics and selection silence the Everton faithful and pile more pressure on Koeman.
Idrissa Gueye vs Paul Pogba
Paul Pogba’s move to Manchester United has not hit the heights expected by so many experts.
At Everton, meanwhile, summer signing Idrissa Gueye has proved a steal at £7.5million, averaging the most tackles per match of any Premier League player.
Sunday will see the duo clash for the first time and whoever takes control of the middle third could accordingly have a huge impact on the scoreline. Gueye will want to impose his physicality on the unsettled French midfielder, but Pogba has the pace and power to match.
Romelu Lukaku vs Daley Blind
Romelu Lukaku will see this weekend’s match as the perfect opportunity to highlight his potential to any onlooking suitors.
The Belgian’s goals have been instrumental to Everton’s efforts over the last few seasons and he’ll be licking his lips at the prospect of facing Daley Blind, who is uncharacteristically slender for a Premier League centre-half.
Blind has the added pressure of filling the void left by Eric Bailly’s injury and must ensure his game is on point.
