Everton host Manchester United at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday night knowing it’s an opportunity to reset the mood of their season.
Everton enter the weekend eighth in the Premier League table and top of the Europa League.
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Nonetheless, Merseyside’s frustration is growing after six games without a win at home in all competitions. Failing again under the lights will only heighten the unease.
However, Everton have already beaten United once this season and will take confidence from that win as they head into a tantalizing clash with the resurgent Red Devils.
Game preview
Everton boss David Moyes returns to face his former club at a delicate moment. The 2-1 loss at home to Bournemouth before half-time was particularly embarrassing.
Everton turned the tables in eight chaotic minutes but remained in control. The opportunity to consolidate European influence was gone.
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Their home form is now worrying. They have lost five of their last nine Premier League games on Merseyside, as many as their previous 28 games.
The new 52,000-seat arena doesn’t yet feel like a fortress.
In contrast, their away record is excellent. It was the inconsistency at Hill Dickinson Stadium that held them back.
United, meanwhile, arrived with a very different spirit. Since Michael Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim, United have rediscovered their rhythm and resilience.
No team has more points in 2026.
West Ham’s Benjamin Sesco equalized in injury time to extend their unbeaten run and underline the growing belief. United were playing with freedom again.
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Match statistics
Everton are hoping to complete a second Premier League Double after the 2013/14 season. But the Toffees must remain vigilant.
Manchester United have recorded 19 away wins and 42 full-time wins against Everton in the Premier League, more than any other team in Premier League history.
Everton have lost five of their last nine home league games (two wins, two draws), while Manchester United are unbeaten in their past nine top-flight games (five wins, four draws), their longest unbeaten streak since 2021.
Everton team news
Jack O’Brien is suspended after picking up a red card against Bournemouth, forcing a reshuffle at the back.
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Long-term absentee Jack Grealish remains sidelined, but Seamus Coleman is back in contention and could return at right-back.
More likely, Moyes will join Scotland international (15 caps) Nathan Patterson at right-back. Tyreek George, 20, should retain his spot in the offense.
Idrissa Gueye is still available despite being sacked at Old Trafford, while Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall will be keen to trouble United again after scoring the winner in November.
Everton Prediction XI (4-2-3-1)
Jordan Pickford; Nathan Patterson, James Tarkoski, Jarrad Branthwaite, Vitali Mykolenko; Idrissa Gay, James Garner; Tyrik George, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Iliman Ndiaye; Tieno Barry.
