Everton are back in action when they welcome AFC Bournemouth to Goodison Park in the Premier League on Saturday (15.00 BST).
And pressure is on the Toffees to pick up a result ahead of the international break. It was a case of two steps forward and one back for Sean Dyche’s side last week. After wins on the road against Brentford and Aston Villa, Everton suffered a meek 2-1 loss to Luton Town on their own patch.
Dyche was left exasperated after the reverse as the Blues yet again failed to to their chance to ‘change the story’. Goalscoring opportunities were created in the first half before conceding two goals within seven minutes. While Dominic Calvert-Lewin reduced the arrears before the break, Everton’s second-half display lacked any real craft or ideas.
Worringly, the Toffees have lost all four of their games at Goodison this season. Supporters have rued that form, having been handed a kind run of opening home fixtures that also included Fulham and Wolves - as well as Arsenal.
It was against Bournemouth who Everton secured their last triumph at the Grand Old Lady against. On the final day of the 2022-23 season, a 1-0 success ensured that Premier League relegation was avoided.
The Cherries have also had a difficult start to the campaign, picking up just three points so far and are still to yield a maiden victory. Ahead of the encounter, here’s an early look at the team news for both sides.
5. Ryan Fredericks - out
The defender is still to play for Bournemouth this season as he battles back from a muscle issue. | Getty Images
6. Lloyd Kelly - out
The defender is out for Bournemouth with a muscle problem. | Getty Images
7. Alex Scott - out
The £25m summer signing is still to play for his new club as he battles back from a knee complaint. Photo: Catherine Ivill
8. Chris Mepham - out
The Bournemouth defender has a ’small issue’ that will keep him sidelined until after the international break. | Getty Images