FC Twente v Everton

The Blues returned to European soil as the SportPesa Super Cup Champions after dispatching Gor Mahia in the first of a tough set of pre-season fixtures.

Now shaking off the cobwebs continues.

The Netherlands training camp starts with a clash against Dutch side FC Twente.

The match that is being played at the home of SV De Lutte, an amateur Dutch side, and the Sportpark De Stockakker is perfect for the preparation of the ever unpredictable state of playing conditions Everton will find in the Europa League.

Much like the Toffees, FC Twente also finished 7th in their respective league last campaign. A good test, but let’s not look too deep into results of warm up games.

It’s all about building fitness up for the big ones coming up.

I couldn’t tell you much about FC Twente’s side, but former Liverpool man Oussama Assaidi is employed by the club.

If you don’t recall him there’s a good reason why – let’s just say he wasn’t the greatest footballer in the world.

But guess what?

While at Stoke he still managed to find the net against Everton. And that was the day he joined an elite list of truly woeful players to bag versus everyone’s favourite Blues.

Changes to the squad that travelled to Tanzania include those who played a part in the under 21 European Championships and new signing and coincidentally former FC Twente player, Cuco Martina.

So after Rooney, Klaassen and Keane debuted in East Africa, another three could make their bow for Everton.

Sandro and Jordan Pickford are in line to get some game time.

Martina could also have his first run out in Everton colours against his old side.

It doesn’t have the same competitive edge of the seat feeling of a Premier League fixture, but it’s still great to have the boys in blue back.

Up the Toffees.