OFF-FIELD matters dominated the agenda at Everton during the international break but it's back to the reality of a Premier League survival scrap as they step on to the Goodison turf once more against Arsenal.
A takeover bid from a Miami-based investment group has offered hope for the future at Everton but the short-term goal is all about moving clear of the drop zone as they bid to avoid a damaging plummet into the Championship.
After starting the campaign with three successive defeats, Sean Dyche's side finally got their first point on the board away to Sheffield United in match where I thought it might end up level.
The much-needed arrival of a striker has given the Toffees a focal point up front and Dyche will be hoping new boy Beto can inspire his side to climb up the table.
But they face a tough task on their return after the break, with Arsenal looking to build on last season's second-placed finish after a summer of heavy investment.
The Gunners have amassed 10 points from 12 so far and signed off on a high before the break as two late goals secured a 3-1 win over Manchester United and brought up a bet for Slips Tips.
Big-money buy Declan Rice has boosted their midfield while Gabriel Jesus returned from injury up front to grab the clincher in that Emirates win over the Red Devils.
It looks like Mikel Arteta's side could mount another title challenge this term but they are still throwing in the odd below-par performance, with Fulham coming from behind to claim a 2-2 draw with 10 men last month. That will give Everton hope but it's hard to see past a win for the Gunners if they hit top form at Goodison.
How the bookies view it
Given the respective form of both sides, it's no surprise to Arsenal as odds-on favourites at a best 8/15 with Bet365. Everton are as big as 11/2 with Coral and even the draw is pretty hefty at 18/5 with BetUK.
Recent head to head
Goodison Park hasn't been a happy hunting ground for Arsenal, who have failed to win in their last five visits. Four of those matches ended in wins for Everton, including a rousing 1-0 triumph last term in Dyche's first game at the helm.
Players to watch
Beto has caught the eye in his first two outings for Everton and should improve as he acclimatises to the Premier League. The Portuguese striker is 10/3 with BetVictor for a goal against the Gunners.
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has hit the ground running in the new season, with three goals in seven games for club and country. He netted for Norway in their midweek win over Georgia and is 12/5 at William Hill for another goal here. McBookie also price him at a tempting 11/2 for an assist.
Anything else catch the eye?
Arsenal have kept just one clean sheet all season and Everton have netted four goals in their last two outings so I fancy BTTS in this one, although the odds aren't great a best 11/14 with VBet. The odds for shots on target are better with over 9.5 efforts on target paying 59/50 at Unibet.
Everton have won 17 corners in their two home games this season so that's another market worth exploring. Over 10.5 corners pays 11/10 at Paddy Power while Everton +3 appeals in the corner handicap. Both those bets landed when the Gunners visited Goodison last season.
Jordan Pickford rescued Everton with a brilliant double save in their last outing and it could be another busy day for the keeper. He's 7/4 at SkyBet to make over 4.5 saves.
This English Premier League match between Everton and Arsenal will be played on Sep 17, 2023 and kick off at 16:30. Check below for our tipsters best Everton vs Arsenal prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
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