So, Everton with just one win in twelve are still desperately searching for a win to relieve some pressure off the shoulders of Roberto Martinez and the players.
There’s nothing better than a game under the floodlights of Goodison Park, especially with a great atmosphere and a win!
Everton have a pretty solid record against West Bromwich Albion, winning four and losing just one of their last seven in the league against the Baggies.
Pulis’s new side are just one point about us – with Everton sitting just three points above the relegation zone.
Probably much to the delight of many Everton fans, winger Aiden McGeady is suspended for the game after being sent off in the FA Cup defeat at West Ham. Kevin Mirallas is looking like the man likely to replace him – the Belgian in fine form since being rested and used as a substitute in previous fixtures.
Defender Tony Hibbert is the closest to a return out of those injured and will face a late fitness test along with Sylvain Distin who has been out with a groin injury. However James McCarthy, Tim Howard, Leon Osman and Darron Gibson are still out through their respective injuries.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday afternoon, Martinez said: “I would say that Tony Hibbert is the closest [to a return] and we will assess him over the next 48 hours. But we have to be careful that we don’t push him too early.
“Sylvain should be training with the group tomorrow [Saturday] and again we will assess him just before the game to see if he can make the squad.
“James McCarthy and Darron Gibson are not too far away, and Leon Osman and Steven Pienaar are progressing well but they have a bit more of a longer-term recovery programme.
“Tim Howard is well within the six to eight-week programme but won’t be available for the Monday game.”
The Blues will be looking for a win and a clean sheet after conceding 34 goals this season after only letting in 39 in the whole last season. Arouna Kone will also be looking to add to his goal-scoring record against WBA if played – scoring in two of his three Premier League games against them.
Likely line-ups for both sides Photo via The Guardian