Both clubs enter the contest in strong positions in the table. Everton have yet to taste defeat this season and sit fifth, while Chelsea arrive one place behind following an emphatic return to winning ways before the international break.

Verdict: Draw

Best odds: 53/20

Bookmaker: BetUS

Everton

Everton’s impressive start to the campaign has reinforced the belief that David Moyes has assembled a side capable of competing in the upper reaches of the Premier League.

The Toffees remain unbeaten after six matches, although they were left frustrated before the international break when a 2-2 draw at Hull City denied them another victory. Having held a lead during the contest, Moyes was understandably disappointed to see his side allow two points to slip away.

Despite that setback, Everton’s defensive foundations remain a key strength. They have already recorded multiple clean sheets at home this season and continue to make life difficult for visiting opponents.

History also provides significant encouragement. Chelsea have found trips to Merseyside increasingly uncomfortable in recent years, with Everton unbeaten in eight of the last nine home meetings between the clubs. The Blues have also failed to score in seven of those visits.

Last season’s corresponding fixture ended in a commanding 3-0 Everton victory, and supporters will expect another highly competitive display this weekend.

Team News

Vitaliy Mykolenko faces a late fitness test after missing the draw against Hull, meaning Jarrad Branthwaite could again continue at left-back. Michael Keane, James Tarkowski and Ainsley Maitland-Niles are expected to complete the defensive line in front of Jordan Pickford.

Further forward, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall should continue in an advanced midfield role after producing both a goal and an assist against Hull. Thierno Barry is also set to keep his place after scoring three goals in six Premier League appearances so far.

Chelsea

Chelsea’s mood improved considerably before the international break following a dominant 5-1 victory over Bournemouth.

After enduring a three-match winless run, Xabi Alonso’s side exploded back into form courtesy of outstanding attacking displays from Joao Pedro and Jordan Henderson, both of whom scored twice. Morgan Rogers was also on target, continuing his excellent start since joining the club.

Another important factor was the return of Moises Caicedo. The midfielder’s comeback from injury added greater balance to the side and appeared to provide a platform for Chelsea’s strongest performance of the season.

There are still concerns defensively. Chelsea have now conceded in 22 consecutive Premier League matches, an unwanted sequence that highlights one area where improvement remains necessary.

Team News

However, there is no question about their attacking quality. Joao Pedro, Rogers and Cole Palmer form one of the most dangerous front threes in the division, capable of troubling any defence on their day.

Alonso may decide to keep faith with the side that dismantled Bournemouth. Caicedo and Henderson are expected to continue their partnership in midfield, while the front line should remain unchanged.

Reece James remains a doubt, while Emmanuel Emegha is still waiting for his first appearance following his summer move. Jamie Gittens is ruled out through injury.

Key Factors to Consider

• Everton are unbeaten after six Premier League matches.
• Chelsea beat Bournemouth 5-1 before the international break.
• The Blues have failed to score in their last three visits to Everton.
• Everton are unbeaten in eight of the last nine home meetings with Chelsea.
• Joao Pedro and Morgan Rogers are both enjoying strong starts to the season.
• Moises Caicedo’s return has strengthened Chelsea’s midfield significantly.

Conclusion

Chelsea arguably possess more attacking talent and arrive with fresh confidence after their emphatic victory over Bournemouth. However, Everton have built their success on organisation, intensity and a formidable record against the Blues on Merseyside.

Moyes’s side know exactly how to disrupt technically gifted opponents, and recent meetings suggest Chelsea often struggle to impose themselves in this fixture.

Expect a tight and physical contest. Chelsea should create opportunities, but Everton’s defensive resilience and strong home record make the hosts capable of grabbing something from the game.