David Moyes Seeks To Maintain Positive Momentum At Everton Amid Injury Challenges

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Everton's recent draw against Liverpool has given them a boost, according to David Moyes. James Tarkowski's late goal secured a 2-2 result in the Merseyside derby, extending Everton's unbeaten streak to four Premier League matches. This performance has placed them 10 points above the relegation zone. However, injuries are a concern, with Iliman Ndiaye and others sidelined for their upcoming match against Crystal Palace.

Moyes faces selection challenges as several key players are unavailable. Iliman Ndiaye suffered a medial ligament injury during the derby, and his return date is uncertain. Abdoulaye Doucoure will miss the next game due to suspension. Additionally, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Orel Mangala, Youssef Chermiti, Armando Broja, and Dwight McNeil are injured, while Nathan Patterson's fitness remains doubtful.

Despite these setbacks, Moyes remains optimistic about Everton's future. He emphasised the importance of maintaining a positive atmosphere around the club after years of difficulties. "Over recent years, everybody has brought Everton back down to Earth," he said. "Why don't we try and keep Everton high for a while? Isn't it nice that everything's positive for a change?"

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is hopeful about his team's prospects against Everton. He expects Eberechi Eze, Ismaila Sarr, and Eddie Nketiah to be fit for the match at Selhurst Park after missing their FA Cup victory over Doncaster Rovers. Glasner stated, "I expect all three to be back and available for the Everton game."

Palace has shown improvement recently by winning four of their last six league games. They have also kept three clean sheets in their previous four matches. However, they have struggled at home this season with only two wins.

Players to Watch

Jean-Philippe Mateta is one to watch for Crystal Palace as he aims to equal Christian Benteke's record as the club's second-top Premier League scorer. Mateta has scored six goals in five league games this year. For Everton, Beto has been impressive with three goals in his last two appearances.

Match Prediction: Crystal Palace Favoured

Historically, Moyes has struggled against Glasner, losing all three encounters with him as a manager. Crystal Palace holds a slight edge with an Opta win probability of 50.4%, compared to Everton's 23.2%. A draw stands at 26.4%. Despite their recent form, Everton faces challenges away from home against London clubs.

Everton aims to secure consecutive away wins in the Premier League after defeating Brighton last month. Their last successful run of back-to-back away victories occurred between October and December 2023 when they also triumphed over Palace 3-2.

As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter at Selhurst Park, fans can expect an exciting match filled with competitive spirit and determination from both sides aiming for valuable points in the league standings.