Michael Keane could be Everton’s perfect answer in targeting West Ham’s biggest weakness.
David Moyes knows just how important Saturday’s game is against his former side, with Everton dreaming of European qualification.
Everton will be without Beto, who suffered a concussion in the Merseyside derby on Sunday.
Let us know your prediction and goal scorers! 🤔
Three huge points on the line in the race for Europe… 😬
Michael Keane of Everton celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 1-0 during the Premier League match between Everton and West Ham United.
Credit: Getty Images/Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA
Although the Blues will be without their in-form striker, Keane could pose a real threat as West Ham’s biggest struggle has come from defending set pieces.
Everton v Fulham - Premier League
Photo by Mike Morese/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Michael Keane set to start for Everton vs West Ham
Jarrad Branthwaite will miss Everton’s remaining games of the season following another hamstring injury suffered last weekend.
Moyes will have no concerns about bringing Keane back into the starting XI, given that he has played the majority of the season alongside James Tarkowski.
What would your message to Moyes be over starting Thierno Barry vs West Ham? 🫣
Beto misses the game through concussion. 🤕
Everton striker Thierno Barry. David Moyes managing Everton.
Credit: Getty Images/Carl Recine/James Gill – Danehouse.
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In recent days, Everton have rewarded Keane with a new contract, which includes a pay rise for his impressive 2025/26 campaign.
Not only has Keane been largely solid at the back, but the 33-year-old is also a proven goal threat.
This is something that should worry Nuno Espirito Santo.
West Ham struggle massively in defending set pieces
No team in the Premier League has conceded more goals (17) through set pieces than West Ham this season.
Team Set piece goals conceded
West Ham 17
Bournemouth 17
Chelsea 16
Liverpool 16
Without their main goal threat Beto, this has to be an avenue that Moyes and his staff are targeting to pick up three points at the London Stadium.
Keane has already scored a header from a corner in the earlier meeting between these two sides at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The veteran defender also scored a header against Fulham, which came from a Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall corner.
This is a clear advantage that Everton have to utilise in the capital.
Not only do they have Keane, but Moyes will also be hoping the likes of Jake O’Brien and James Tarkowski can pose a threat to West Ham in dead ball situations.
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