Everton will be a buoyant side when they travel to the Vicarage Road to face a Watford team who have stuttered a bit in recent weeks. The Toffees dug in and snatched a draw against a United team who failed to turn their first-half domination into goals. The Hornets had a tough last weekend where they were soundly beaten 3-1 by an in-form West Bromwich Albion. Tony Pulis has changed things around drastically and Watford were stunned by the attacking intent and impetus shown by the Baggies.
But they will be looking to pick themselves up when Everton come calling in the opening fixture of the Match day.
Let us take a brief look at the key battles which might be played out in the game.
TROY DEENEY VS ASHLEY WILLIAMS
Everton’s new recruit Ashley Williams has slowly settled into his new surroundings and looks to be comfortable amongst his new teammates. His experience with Swansea has also helped him but the Toffees will be expecting more from him as the season progresses.
Watford’s regular duo of Deeney and Ighalo have been disbanded due to the latter’s indifferent form this season. And Deeney has been left up top to fend off the defenders and score on his own! They will be at each other throughout the afternoon and will not concede an inch. With Pereyra suspended, keeping Deeney quiet will go a long way in nullifying the Hornets.
ROMELU LUKAKU VS YOUNES KABOUL
The Evertonian frontman has been having difficulties finding the back of the net recently but he possesses enough ammunition in his locker to explode and trample the opposition at any point in time.
His natural physique and striker’s instinct, aided by his pace, make him a nightmare for any defender. Kaboul is expected to be declared fit and will be lining up at the heart of the defence. He will be relishing the challenge at this stage in his career and he will have to draw all his experience to nullify Lukaku’s threat.
ETIENNE CAPOUE VS GARETH BARRY
The French midfielder has been in terrific form and has cancelled out Ighalo’s drastic loss of form with his goals. Currently the highest scorer in the team with 5 goals, his ability to pop up in the box has made the defender’s job stiff in containing him.
With Barry taking on the more defensive role between him and Gueye, he has to put in an alert shift and will have to match Capoue pace to pace in order to keep him under wraps and away from the score-sheet.
