Everton vs Peterborough : Prediction, Preview & Betting Tips

Two teams desperate for a result face off in the FA Cup, but we are backing Everton to show the gulf in class between the Premier League and League One and run out easy winners. This match offers a much needed opportunity to build confidence and return to scoring ways, but they face much easier opposition than they have recently - Peterborough have the worst defence in League One and sit only just above the relegation zone.

Everton have a deep squad to dip into, with Beto, Nathan Patterson, Jesper Lindstrom (if fit) and Jack Harrison all competing for starts and hoping a solid performance will increase their chances of Premier League game time.

Everton 4 - Peterborough 0

Depending on your viewpoint, this match gives two teams who are struggling in their respective leagues either the welcome distraction of a cup competition and the potential of a run to cheer up their fans, or an unwelcome additional match on a freezing Thursday night with the risk of injuries.

Everton boss Sean Dyche is certainly one person who will be hoping this match can spark some positivity and confidence in his team. A loss would bring more pressure on to an already under siege manager, with Everton yet again sitting only just above the relegation zone.

The Toffees have 16 points from 19 games, with a goal difference of -10. Painfully, they have failed to win in their last 6 matches, although that run does include draws against Manchester City, Chelsea, and Arsenal. They are struggling to create many chances or score many goals, with their 4-0 drubbing of Wolves the only time since mid October when they have scored once in a match.

Luckily for them, Peterborough are in a similar vein of form. They also sit just above the relegation zone, but in League One, with 25 points from 24 matches. Their downfall this season has been their defence, conceding 46 goals - 2 more than another team.

While they were able to blast their way to victories at the start of the season, in their last 5 games they have scored just 4 while conceding 11, leading to four losses and a draw. They are also suffering from indiscipline, with two straight red cards in their last 5 matches.

Manager Darren Ferguson is well regarded at the club and is being given plenty of time to turn around but with their current squad it's hard to see how Peterborough can shore up defensively.

The match will be shown live on BBC iPlayer & the Red Button. It can also be streamed from the BBC Sport website. Audio commentary is live on TalkSport.

Everton are likely to be without both Dominic Calvert-Lewin & Armando Broja after both picked up injuries on Saturday vs Bournemouth. Dwight McNeil and Youssef Chermiti also continue to be absent, along with at least 3 other players.

Jesper Lindstrom will take a late fitness test after being subbed at half time at Bournemouth.

Peterborough continue to miss Kwasi Poku, their star player and top performer, who last played in early December.

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