Everton head to the south coast on Saturday afternoon knowing a positive result against Brighton & Hove Albion could further fuel their push towards the European places.
Separated by just three points in the Premier League table, Everton travel to the Amex Stadium sitting 10th, while Brighton occupy 12th and are eager to climb back into the top half.
With their recent away form proving imperious, Everton boss David Moyes will quietly fancy his side’s chances.
Match preview
Only two teams have collected fewer league points than Brighton since the start of December. They have won just once in their last 10 Premier League matches.
Slow starts have been a recurring issue. Brighton have been behind at half-time more than any other team this season.
Everton arrive in encouraging form. A disciplined 1-0 win at Aston Villa was followed by a frustrating 1-1 draw with Leeds United, and Moyes’ side remains firmly in the European conversation.
Defensive solidity has been Everton’s foundation, especially on the road.
The Toffees have kept five clean sheets in their last six away league games and are unbeaten in three consecutive trips, a run that underlines their growing resilience.
Having beaten Brighton 2-0 in August, Everton now have a rare opportunity to complete the league double.
Match stats
Brighton are winless in their last five home Premier League games against Everton (D2, L3).
Everton have kept five clean sheets in their last six Premier League away matches, including the last three in a row.
The Toffees have scored just 25 league goals this season, the fewest of any team currently in the top half, making defence their best shot at a victory.
Everton team news
Everton loanee Jack Grealish is out for the rest of the season with a foot stress fracture. Tim Iroegbunam and Carlos Alcaraz will be assessed ahead of kick-off.
Michael Keane returns from suspension and is expected to slot straight back into central defence alongside James Tarkowski.
Jake O’Brien will move to right-back, with Nathan Patterson dropping to the bench.
Jarrad Branthwaite and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall are nearing full fitness. The 27-year-old midfielder could start his first game since December 13.
Iliman Ndiaye and Dwight McNeil are set to continue out wide. In-form Thierno Barry has responded to critics with four goals in his last five league outings and leads the line once more.
Everton predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
Jordan Pickford; Jake O’Brien, James Tarkowski, Michael Keane, Vitaliy Mykolenko; Idrissa Gueye, James Garner; Iliman Ndiaye, Harrison Armstrong, Dwight McNeil; Thierno Barry.
