Everton and Roma are set to face off in the first game where fans can really see the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The Friedkin Group derby takes place this Saturday at 3pm as the Toffees have the chance to end pre-season strongly.
It’s been a dismal start to the season, but David Moyes’ side are hoping to do their talking when the Premier League kicks off.
A Monday Night Football opener against Leeds United awaits Everton, and Roma will be a good test a week before the action begins.
Obviously, The Friedkins own both Roma and Everton, so it will be a good game for the owners, but Moyes might be focused on another battle that could take place.
Everton striker Thierno Barry.
Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Thierno Barry could face former Everton target Evan Ferguson vs Roma
So far this pre-season, Moyes hasn’t given a start to new £27 million striker Thierno Barry.
Instead, the Scotsman has tried to rely on his main man from last season, but Moyes has been ‘disappointed’ with Beto.
This surely leaves Barry with a start against Roma on Saturday as the Frenchman is ready to show what he’s all about.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
It’s a chance for some Evertonians to get their first look, but it will also be good to see how Barry fares against Evan Ferguson.
Ferguson joined Roma this summer on loan after being a long-standing target for Moyes, as Everton wanted Ferguson again this window.
Of course, they went for the 22-year-old, but the Toffees manager can see if the right decision was made.
It’s a battle to keep an eye on, but the Irishman is proving that he is on the right path to becoming a resounding success in Italy.
Former Everton target Evan Ferguson has made a bright start for Roma
With Barry having a slow start with the Toffees due to his limited minutes, after Beto’s poor start, the striker has to be given the number nine role against Roma.
It’s a chance for not only Moyes to see his credentials but for the striker to get a taste of what playing for Everton means.
Ferguson could have had that chance, but the striker is instead flying for Roma in his early start to pre-season.
The 20-year-old has already scored six goals in four games for the Italian side, proving that he’s ready to prove the doubters wrong.
Everton fans thought Ferguson would transform under Moyes, and there could be regret if Barry doesn’t live up to his standards, but Saturday is a chance to prove his worth.