Everton v Latics Preview

Latics are heading into a tough game at Goodison Park this afternoon against an Everton side that sit just two points above Martinez`s men in the league table, a good result today would be a massive boost ahead of the busy Christmas schedule.

Hugo Rodallega returns following his three match ban and he was certainly missed during his absence, proving the old adage of 'you don`t what you miss until it`s gone` certainly rang true.

Rodallega gives Latics movement and pace up front and all though he isn`t the most accurate forward, Hugo isn`t afraid to shoot and I`d expect him to come straight into the starting eleven today, whether that`s at the expense of Boselli or someone else I wouldn`t like to say, though I do suspect that the Argentine striker might be back on the bench.

Whatever the team Martinez picks a top performance is what`s required and a good result will help to boost the players confidence.

Latics boss Roberto Martinez:

'Going to Goodison, you need to perform because they will put you under pressure and I rate Everton in a big way

'I don't think their position in the table is a true reflection of their quality.

'What David has achieved is magnificent. He has created a real identity in the club and a fantastic way to be competitive.

'What he has done is something to admire.'

Arteta is suspended and Barkley and Hibbert are out injured whilst Heitinga, Osman, Pienaar and Saha are rated as doubtful

Everton from:

Howard, Neville, Jagielka, Distin, Baines, Coleman, Fellaini, Rodwell, Pienaar, Bilyaletdinov, Cahill, Saha, Beckford, Mucha, Heitinga, Osman, Yakubu, Anichebe.

The Aussie always seems to score against us

Di Santo, McCarthy and Moses remain on the injury list, Gary Caldwell will face a fitness test but Hugo Rodallega is back following a three game ban

Latics from:

Al Habsi, Gohouri, Alcaraz, Steven Caldwell, Figueroa, Stam, N'Zogbia, Watson, Diame, Thomas, Cleverley, Boselli, Rodallega, Pollitt, Gomez, McArthur, Boyce, McManaman, Mustoe.

Will the Colmbia international return to action with a bang?

Latics and Everton have faced each other 11 times previously

Latics 2 wins, Everton 7, draws 2

Last Six Meetings

30/01/2010 - Premier League - Latics 0 Everton 1
30/08/2009 - Premier League - Everton 2 Latics 1
05/04/2009 - Premier League - Everton 4 Latics 0
24/11/2008 - Premier League - Latics 1 Everton 0
20/01/2008 - Premier League - Latics 1 Everton 2
11/08/2007 - Premier League - Everton 2 Latics 1

Michael Oliver (Northumberland)

Why not take a look at our excellent `Meet the Ref` article

Michael Oliver Card Watch 2010/11: Games - 14, Yellows 39, Reds 6

Head says 1-1

Heart pulling towards a Latics win, 2-1

Premier League

Latics v Aston Villa
DW Stadium
Saturday
18/12/10
3pm

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