Everton and Newcastle meet on Thursday in the first of two straight matches between the two sides. This fixture takes place in the EFL Cup fourth round, with both looking to gain an advantage before Monday's Premier League fixture.
The Toffees failed to reach the fourth round in each of their two previous seasons, and their highest finish in recent years was the quarter-finals, where they lost 7-8 on penalties to Fulham in 2023/24. To reach the fourth round, Everton beat Wolves and Preston North End, scoring five and not conceding. David Moyes has come under criticism in recent weeks, following performances and results that have not gone in the Toffees ' favour.
Everton are without a win in their last three Premier League matches, following a draw against Hull City (2-2) and two straight 2-0 defeats at the hands of Arsenal and Chelsea, respectively. The Toffees have conceded at least 1.1 goals per game this season and have only scored one goal per game in the Premier League.
Newcastle United picked up a much-needed win at the weekend, after previously going two league matches without a win. The victory away at Crystal Palace has lifted any pressure on Newcastle United manager Matthias Jaissle who had come under scrutiny following recent results.
Away from home, the Magpies have won three of their five matches on the road this season, with wins against Tottenham Hotspur and Millwall. However, Newcastle United have been inconsistent this campaign, having failed to record consecutive wins in the Premier League this season.
Harvey Barnes could be a difference maker in this fixture. Barnes has registered four goal contributions this season in 8 Premier League games and will likely cause an inconsistent Everton side problems on Thursday.
Ultimately, this game could go all the way to penalties with neither side wanting a defeat heading into Monday.
Everton 1-1 Newcastle (Newcastle to advance on penalties)
