After a robust performance in the later stages of the second half that earned them a point against Manchester United last week, Everton saw themselves outplayed by a Watford side that are growing stronger with every passing week.
Ronald Koeman’s team looked clueless since the first goal and paid the price for it. The defeat came at a huge cost as the Toffees saw themselves dropping down two positions to the 9th spot. And their next opponents are unlikely to make it any easier for them.
Everton host Arsenal in the midweek fixture, who have been in a fierce form of late scoring 11 goals in their last 3 league games. A further slip-up here will surely take the Toffees out of the top half of the table.
Defence
Koeman’s defensive tactics have been highly criticised. Despite having one of the finest backlines in the Premier League consisting of players, who have both experience and success, it has been inflicted with severe blows this season.
Even against Watford last weekend, the defence looked clueless and without intent every time Watford attacked. The scoreline could have been more as Watford came dangerously close to scoring from numerous set-pieces. They need fresh tactics to get things clicking against Arsenal.
Stekelenburg will under the bar. There was nothing much he could do about the goals against Watford.
We expect Koeman to stick to the same back four as he doesn’t have better alternatives in those positions. The left-back position should be taken by the ever-present Leighton Baines and the right-back by Seamus Coleman. Coleman has been brilliant at times on the counter, but his defensive actions remain shaken.
The central defence will be taken by Funes-Mori and Ashley Williams.
