Antonio Conte will undertake his first match in charge for Tottenham on Sunday in the Premier League as the Lilywhites make an away trip to Goodison Park. Both teams have been struggling to find form in their recent games. Can Conte’s Tottenham start their new era with a win at Everton?
Everton lost their third back-to-back fixture in the Premier League when they were defeated 1-2 away at Wolves. They have been able to take just one point from their previous four games in the league. As a result, they are placed 10th in the league with four wins, two draws, and four losses. With pressure mounting on Benitez, Everton would be desperate to revive their form. They have had to contend with injuries to many starting eleven players, which could also be the reason for their recent slump. Calvert-Lewin, Yerry Mina, and Doucoure are all unavailable for the game against Tottenham, while Lucas Digne and Andre Gomes are also doubtful to appear.
Everton succumbed to Wolves in their recent game. Despite having a marginally better xG and more shots, Everton were unable to mount a comeback in the second half after going behind in the first. Goals from Kilman and Jimenez proved sufficient to hand Wolves three points. Alex Iwobi did pull one back for Everton in the 65th minute, but Wolves stood firm and made sure that they come out on top at the final whistle.
Despite their recent slump, Everton started the season brightly, winning four of their starting seven games. They have been dominant in the air this season, as indicated by their successful aerial duels and successful aerial duels per 90, both of which place them at the third spot.
Tottenham hierarchy finally decided to pull the cord off of the Nuno Era and have successfully replaced him with former Inter Milan and Chelsea manager, Antonio Conte. Tottenham’s 0-3 defeat against Manchester United was enough to convince them to part ways with Nuno. Spurs are currently placed at ninth spot, a spot above their opponent in their upcoming match, with five wins and five losses in 10 games.
Conte’s first game in charge for Spurs was a tough 3-2 win over Vitesse in the Europa Conference League. Conte stated in the post-match interview that his side needs to improve their confidence and that there are many aspects they need to work on, both tactically and physically. Bryan Gill and Ryan Sessegnon will remain unavailable for the match against Everton. Other than that, Conte should have a fit squad to choose from.
Tottenham’s recent outing in the Premier League proved to be Nuno’s last as they were defeated 0-3 by Manchester United. Spurs took a total of nine shots during the match but were unable to take a shot on target. They took four shots from inside the opposition’s box and five shots from outside.
Tottenham have been leaking many goals at the back this season. So far, they have conceded 16 goals, which is the seventh highest in the league, while they also concede more than a goal per match. Conte’s first order of business would be to improve Tottenham’s defensive frailties and provide them with a sound framework to work off of.
Predicted Eleven
Everton (4-4-2) – Pickford; Coleman, Keane, Godfrey, Digne; Townsend, Allan, Davies, Iwobi; Richarlison, Gray.
Tottenham (3-5-2) – Lloris; Sanchez, Romero, Dier; Doherty, Lo Celso, Hojbjerg, Skipp, Reguilon; Kane, Son.
Prediction
Both teams will be looking to utilize this game to revive their form. Benitez would be aware that Spurs might need a few games to get used to Conte’s tactics. However, Spurs might just come home with a narrow victory.
