Scott Parker might have hinted at how Burnley will try to play tonight, as David Moyes seeks to get Everton back on track at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
After beating Newcastle United on Saturday, Everton are looking to follow the result up against the relegation-threatened Clarets.
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A custom graphic showing a predicted Everton XI to face Burnley.
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Burnley were beaten 4-3 by Brentford and were slightly unlucky not to take a point, with VAR chalking off a late goal by Ashley Barnes.
Scott Parker – who Everton twice tried to sign as a player according to David Moyes – was pleased with what he saw from his side though, and is looking to build on the performance against Everton.
And Parker’s comments about the game may well inform how Moyes’ own tactical plan tonight.
Everton to counter as Scott Parker suggests Burnley plan
Speaking at his press conference, Parker said about facing Everton: “I like Everton. Good side. Brilliant coach in David. Good team, you can see players coming back now as well.
“Last time we played them they were a little bit more depleted with injuries and players being away at AFCON. They made some astute signings in the summer with some real good players and have picked up some really good results.
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“It’s a new stadium as well and a different experience. We’re up against a huge challenge here, of course we are. But as always we’re looking forward to that challenge.”
Scott Parker managing Burnley.
Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images
And then, the hint about the game plan, “We’re looking to try and take this head on, really.”
Everton have been criticised for how they have played in recent home matches.
A pattern has emerged in that the Toffees have tried to take the initiative, having slightly more of the ball than in away matches.
Some feel this does not suit the players. Or at least, it’s a style that doesn’t match up with where certain players are playing, with several being square pegs in round holes.
Away from home, Everton seem to have more counter-attack moments, and the contrast between Everton’s home and away form has been there for all to see.
As such, fans have pleaded for a more counter-attacking style at home.
And potentially, given the hint from Parker, we might see this tonight.
Burnley could mix things up
Given Everton’s struggles at home recently, it will be interesting to see if there’ll be a willingness to let Burnley have more of the ball tonight.
Certainly, there is an argument for Everton being more counter attack-minded at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
In terms of the average possessions of each side this season, Burnley have recorded 41.2% in the Premier League so far (via WhoScored), which is only slightly lower than Everton’s at 43.6%. So it’s not out of the question Burnley will have more of the ball.
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Surely a great opportunity to finally get back on track at Hill Dickinson? 🙏
A custom image showing recent results for Everton against Burnley.
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Everton have thrived on the transition in away games, so it may just be worth actually letting Parker and Burnley ‘take this head on’.
That said, Parker did also talk about managing the environment and wants to see organisation from his side. So at times we could see Everton being forced to take the initiative.
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