Everton travel to the Emirates Stadium to face defending Premier League champions Arsenal, with kick-off set for 3pm. The Blues arrive in north London after suffering their first defeat of the season, a 2-0 home loss to Chelsea last weekend, which ended an eight-match unbeaten run in all competitions.
Arsenal have won 10 of their 12 matches in the current campaign and will be strong favourites to extend that record. Everton manager David Moyes has hinted at potential injuries in his squad, which could make the task even harder for his side.
Team News and Injury Concerns
Centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite was not pictured in training earlier this week, but Moyes refused to confirm his availability at the pre-match press conference. "We've got our share of bits and pieces and we'll keep them quiet," he said. When asked specifically about Branthwaite, Moyes added: "I wouldn't be answering any questions [on team news], at the minute, that's for sure."
Team news is expected to be announced at 1.45pm, followed by in-game commentary and post-match reaction.
Match Odds and Context
Bookmakers have installed Arsenal as heavy favourites, with bet365 pricing the Gunners at 21/50, a draw at 7/2, and Everton at 7/1. Everton ran Arsenal close in last season's corresponding fixture but lost 2-0 late on, a result they will hope to improve upon today.
The Blues' record at the Emirates is poor, but a repeat of last season's performance, with a little more luck, could yield a positive result. Live coverage includes build-up, team news, and in-game updates from Chris Beesley at the stadium and Paul Wheelock on Merseyside.
