Everton vs Luton Town - Match Preview

Team News

Newell: Problems with virus

Luton - Luton may have serious problems with fielding a good team in Tuesday's match against Everton. A particularly worrying part of the team is the defence. As well as Chris Coyne being already out with Paul Underwood, Russell Perrett and Marcus Heikkinen are also doubts. Both players have picked up a flu bug that has also affected Sol Davis, Carlos Edwards and Steve Robinson in recent weeks and Luton may be left with Leon Barnett as the only fit centre-back. This could result in Keith Keane facing Andy Johnson as a centre-back cover, so hopefully Heikkinen will be fit in time. Edwards and Robinson definitely didn't look like they were suffering on Saturday judging by their performances, so hopefully the worst of the bug is over. Otherwise, Lewis Emanuel and Sam Parkin still have hamstring problems and will not face Everton probably. Ahmet Brkovic may recover in time for the cup match but will probably have to settle for a place on the bench. Richard Langley is unfortunately injury-free for tomorrow, but David Bell will start instead of him after his performance on Saturday.
Predicted Team - Beresford (GK), Davis (DL), Foley (DR), Barnett (DC), Heikkinen (DC), Morgan (ML), Edwards (MR), Robinson (MC), Bell (MC), Vine (SC), Feeney (SC)

Everton - Everton also have a virus going through their team, meaning that it is likely not many players will be rested and their squad could be down to the bare bones. James Beattie, Tim Cahill and Tim Howard are all likely to be missing due to the virus, meaning there could be starts for young striker Victor Anichebe and young goalkeeper Iain Turner. Welsh international Simon Davies has also been struck down with the virus. Their defence could also be a problem, with Phil Neville and Joseph Yobo both struggling to be fit with injuries. These factors mean it could be a good time to play Everton, although the form book suggests otherwise. They have only lost once this season, and are unbeaten at home like us. They are also the equal top scorers at home in the Premiership with ten goals.
Prediction
Everything to me is suggesting that Luton may not cause an upset today. Moyes probably won't rest many players, so I think we will go down fighting in a 3-2 defeat.

Victor Anichebe: Young Nigerian may start