Everton-Wigan Preview

Everton vs. Wigan
Sunday, Aug. 30
Goodison Park
Kick-Off: 15:00

Everton

In the wake of Joleon Lescott’s messy transfer to Manchester City, David Moyes will look to restore a sense of calm to his Everton side.

After starting the season on the worst possible note (a 6-1 loss to Arsenal at Goodison Park), Everton responded to put four past Sigma Olomouc in Europa Cup qualifications, only to drop their second successive Premier League match against Burnley.

The second-half performance against Burnley was promising from an Everton perspective, although the missed chances cost the Blues dearly.

Louis Saha, who has otherwise been in fantastic form, missed from the spot in what would have levelled things up for Everton at the Turf Moor.

Yakubu Aiyegbeni could return from a lengthy injury after having scored for the reserves in midweek.

New signing Diniyar Bilyaletdinov will likely not be eligible until the second week of September.

Wigan

Wigan Athletic enter Sunday’s match with Everton after a horrible 4-1 defeat at the hands of Blackpool in the Carling Cup.

The defeat comes only four days after the 5-0 thrashing they received against Manchester United at the JB Stadium and Roberto Martinez will have to consider juggling his team around if they are to re-discover their form.

Hugo Rodallega has been a bright spot for Martinez so far this campaign and has looked dangerous when coming forward. Wigan will have to provide him with better service, however, if they are to puncture the Everton defence.

Jason Koumas and Titus Bramble will also be looking to find a way back to their best as both are key players for Martinez’s Wigan.

Prediction

Both clubs are in desperate need of a win. Last season's Everton vs. Wigan meetings saw the Toffees win 4-0 at Goodison Park, but stumble to a 1-0 defeat at the JJB Stadium earlier in the season.

The return of Yakubu is a huge injection for Moyes’ attacking options and he will be called upon to produce instantly. If he can shake off the rust of nearly a year away form the game, Everton will have a good chance of taking three points.

Everton vs Wigan Prediction: Everton 3 - Wigan 1

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