Everton were once considered one of the ‘big five’ clubs in England, but over the past decade they have slowly slid down the table. The Toffees have not placed in the top four since the 2004-05 season, and that has deprived the club of desperately needed Champions League money. This year, the results have not been any better, and Everton are in danger of continuing to slide despite significant investment in the offseason. They are currently sitting in 11th place and will look to improve upon that position following this week’s match with Crystal Palace.
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English Premier League Betting at BookMaker.eu
Crystal Palace +329
Everton -119
Draw +255
Over/Under 2.5
Odds Analysis
Crystal Palace were among the clubs that made significant moves this offseason to ensure their survival in the Premier League the year before the league becomes vastly more lucrative thanks to a new television deal. They are sitting in 14th place with a record of 2-1-5, but the goals have not been coming like they expected. Palace have just five goals through eight matches in Premier League play, and they have only played one of the Premier League heavyweights to this point.
As for the Toffees, they have turned it on after a slow start to the year. They had just one win through their first six matches before hammering Fulham 3-0 at Goodison Park in late September, and Everton notched a key road win over Leicester City prior to the international break.
Key Injuries
Palace will be without a few key players for this match. Scott Dann is not expected to return until late November at the earliest because of a knee injury. Christian Benteke underwent a minor knee procedure during the international break, and it’s unlikely that he will suit up for this one. Connor Wickham has not played a competitive match in two years, but he is hoping to return sometime next month. The biggest concern revolves around the newest name to the injury list though. Wilfried Zaha hurt his hip on international duty, and the Eagles fear he may miss an extended period of time.
James McCarthy continues to be sidelined for at least the next couple weeks for Everton, but everyone else could be match ready. Beni Baningime, Idrissa Gueye, Seamus Coleman, Yerry Mina, and Andre Gomes are all listed as questionable, and that will give the Toffees some depth when it comes to their selections.
Player to Watch
This offseason, Everton’s big purchase was signing Richarlison from league rival Watford. Richarlison is only 21 years old, but he has the potential to be one of the next great Brazilians. He has certainly had his moments in his two months with the club. He has already tallied four goals in six games with Everton, and his creative flair has brought a spark to this offense. Palace’s defensive efforts are going to be concentrated around slowing Richarlison down.
Prop Bet of the Game – Both teams to score -120
Everton have had some of the highest scoring matches in the Premier League this season. There have been 25 goals in their eight games, and only five clubs have higher totals. The Toffees are likely to play more of a free-wheeling game at home than they would be on the road, as that style best suits their strengths. I think it will lead to multiple goals for Everton, while Crystal Palace cracks through as well.
Free Soccer Betting Pick
This is one of those matches Everton know they need to win after a rough start. The Toffees are sure to be excited with so many players ready to return from injury, and I think that enthusiasm will lead to a victory.
English Premier League Odds: Everton 2, Crystal Palace 1
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