Everton vs. Arsenal: Complete Preview, Live Stream, Start Time and More

Arsenal will be looking to keep its charge toward the top three rolling against Everton. Both teams have been playing some of their best football of the season in recent weeks, which should lead to an exciting clash at Goodison Park.

The Gunners sit just one point behind Tottenham in the race for an automatic berth into next season's Champions League. It was a goal that seemed like a longshot even a month ago, but five consecutive victories have put Arsenal back into contention.

Getting all three points on the road won't be easy, however. The Toffees have been playing much better since mid-January and have been more successful on home turf throughout the season. It will take a complete team effort from Arsenal to take all three points from them.

Where: Goodison Park in Liverpool, England

When: Wednesday, March 21 at 4 p.m. ET

Watch: Fox Soccer Channel and FoxSoccer.tv

Betting Odds: To Be Announced

Player to Watch for Everton: Royston Drenthe

Everton's biggest problem over the past few seasons has been finding players who can consistently put the ball in the net. It's stopped the Toffees from challenging for a European spot, but Drenthe's recent play has provided a spark.

The 24-year-old midfielder, who's on loan from Real Madrid, has found a comfort zone with Everton. He's always had talent, but a lack of playing time has usually left a lot to be desired with his form. That's changed over the past month, having picked up a couple goals.

Everton needs him to create scoring chances early and often against Arsenal if they are going to secure at least one point.

Player to Watch for Arsenal: Robin van Persie

Can anybody stop van Persie? It certainly doesn't seem like it. The Premier League's leading scorer has recorded a tally in four straight games. Watching him make defenses look silly has become a weekly occurrence, and he's shown no signs of slowing down.

What allows him to put up such eye-popping numbers is his ability to create space. He'll receive a pass in between two or three defenders, and a heartbeat later, the goalkeeper is left looking stunned. He's in a zone that few other players in the world can match.

In the first meeting between the two sides, van Persie scored the game's only goal. He'll need to control the pace once again to keep Arsenal's hot streak alive.

Key Matchup: Marouane Fellaini vs. Mikel Arteta

There are two ways to think about Fellaini. On one hand, his play in the attacking third, which is often highlighted by mental errors, leaves a lot to be desired. But on the flip side, he's reliable in his own end and can often shut down an opponent's top playmaker.

One player Fellaini will need to keep a close eye on is Arteta. The former Toffee has played an important role in the Gunners' resurgence. His stats might not jump off the page at you (five goals, two assists), but his impact extends beyond numbers.

If Fellaini keeps Arteta under control, Everton will be in good shape. Should he allow the Spaniard to create scoring chances for his teammates, the Gunners will likely walk away with the victory.

What They're Saying

Everton's team website looked back at the past decade since David Moyes took over as manager. He said not much has changed despite his extended run at Goodison:

"

I certainly don’t feel 10 years older than when I first came in. I still feel the same, have the same enthusiasm and the same hunger for success I had when I first came in. I always try to be ambitious and do well.

"

Joe Brewin of Arsenal.com passed along some thoughts from Gunners midfielder Tomas Rosicky, who said the team still can't afford any poor performances:

"

If we take our foot off the gas then we will pay for it. Newcastle are a good side who are tough to play against, nobody will give you anything for free so we had to fight hard. It is what we are doing and I am enjoying playing in this side very much.

"

Prediction

Arsenal 2, Everton 1