Everton’s late season recovery has put them right back in contention for a seventh placed finish come the end of the season, but an inform Arsenal outfit stand in their way this weekend.
Arsenal come into the clash winning seven of their last 10 fixtures, the only two they have lost since early February have come in the Europa League, but both results meant very little in the grand scheme of things with the Gunners progressing in both ties.
But most of the North Londoners eye-catching form has came at home. In their last six away outings, Unai Emery’s side have won just once — a 2-1 victory over Huddersfield — losing four and coming away with a draw against Spurs.
Everton’s recent record against Arsenal has been nothing short of shambolic, the last four meetings between the clubs have ended with the Gunners picking up three points, with the Toffees shipping five goals on two separate occasions.
Ronald Koeman was the last Everton boss to get the better of Arsenal, Ashley Williams’ late, late header in 2016 gave the Blues their last win against this weekends opponents.
Pierre Emerick Aubameyang has faced Everton twice since his Arsenal switch in January 2018, he has went on to score in both games. Both goals have been helped by some suspect officiating, with the Gabon international standing in an offside position twice.
Everton have had a massive turnaround defensively over the past few weeks, Marco Silva’s troops have kept four shut outs in their last five games.
Victory for Everton would put them above Watford in the league and within a point of both Wolves and Leicester.
Arsenal could go third with a win
Team news —
Yerry Mina will miss out on this one for the hosts.
Arsenal will without Hector Bellerin, Rob Holding, Lucas Torreira and Danny Welbeck.
Laurent Koscielny and Granit Xhaka will be assessed prior to kick-off.
Man in the middle —
Kevin Friend will referee the Goodison clash. In 33 games this season he has dished out 113 yellow cards and two reds.