Everton Preview

So it's finally come round, Bramall Lane in May seems a life time ago and there's been a lot of changes at the JJB over the summer

Chris Hutchings takes charge of his first competitive game as Latics boss and he has brought in his own men in order to stamp his own authority on the team

Out have gone DeZeeuw, Jackson, Filan Unsworth, McCulloch and this week Baines

Hutch has been busy in the transfer market bringing in seven players with Jason Koumas being the most expensive and Mario Melchiot having the biggest impact being named club captain

Hutch also brought in a new assistant in the form of Frank Barlow who will bring a wealth of experience to the training ground

In contrast Everton have not been as busy signing both Phil Jagielka and Leighton Baines permanently and Steve Pienaar on a year long loan from Borussia Dortmund

Everton will expect to make a good start to the season, especially with being at home, but underestimate the Latics at your peril

Hutch's team have been in fine form preseason and go into the game full of confidence and they know a good result at Goodison will be the first step in shutting the doubters up

Chris Hutchings says 'Last season we got a point there, and our first ambition is to go one better and come away with all three'

'One thing that I can assure the surpporters is that come Saturday everyone will be ready and hungry, and thats all that matters at the moment'

David Moyes says 'We are going to start the Premier League season by saying we can break into the top four. We were fourth two years ago so why can it not be done again.'

'I see Wigan being a really hard game - a new manager and a new team. It is a tough Premier league game and it is vital we have got to get off to a good start.'

Everton have doubts on up to five first team players

Definitely out James Vaughan and Tim Cahill with their long term injuries.

Iain Turner and Latics old boy Leighton Baines are also set to miss out with minor knocks.

James McFadden has also emerged as a doubt, sore foot.

Phil Jagielka is in line for making his debut

Steve Pienaar is back in contention after sorting out his visa problems.

Scored two goals at the JJB last season

Creative midfielder and free kick specialist

Would fit into any Premiership midfield

Ryan Taylor is definately out injured and Michael Brown is suspended following his dismissal for previous club Fulham last season

Antione Sibierski is not 100% fit following a thigh strain but should get a place on the bench

Jason Koumas suffered a toe injury in training but he is expected to make his Latics debut along with Titus Bramble and Mario Melchiot

Up front should see Emile Heskey partnered by Julius Aghahowa

The big talking point is left back following Baines's move

Kevin Kilbane has played there all through the preseason friendlies and looks likely to start in the position

Cultured midfield player getting another chance to shine in the Premiership

By far the most impressive performer in preseason, big things are expected this season

Previous results

2006/07 Everton 2-2 Latics

2005/06 Everton 0-1 Latics

Mark Clattenburg

Heart says 2-1 to the Latics and a flying start to the season Head says 1-1 with Koumas grabbing a wonder goal

Wigan Athletic Vs Middlesbrough
JJB Stadium 7-45 pm
Wednesday 15/08/2007

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