Despite a somewhat stuttering start, in terms of results at least, in The Premier League Everton demonstrated their current power and potential with the demolition of an accomplished Wolfsburg side in their first round of fixtures in this year’s Europe League.
And although their next opponents are far less well known a trip to Russia is never easy to navigate. FK Krasnodar are the hosts on Thursday and Everton are already showing signs of a problematic injury list.
Kevin Mirallas, who has been excellent so far this season, has a hamstring problem which Roberto Martinez described as ‘something serious‘
“We had a few scans and we are going to make sure we are clear with the problem. It’s not normal when he feels something like that and has to come off in the game.
Apart from Ross Barkley there are injury concerns over Seamus Coleman, Sylvain Distin and midfielder Steven Pienaar. Although none of the three seem to be seriously crocked, we would be surprised if they all started on Thursday, particularly with a big game against Manchester United at Old Trafford this weekend (Sunday at Noon).
With three points in the bag already Martinez may shuffle the pack a little to ensure freshness for the weekend. We think that the likes of Eto’o, Besic and Atsu could well see decent amounts of game time.
A point in Russia would surely be deemed a satisfactory outcome in this 1700 kick off.
So here is how we think that Everton could line up on Thursday. Toffees fans: let’s have your thoughts.
