Wigan Athletic vs Everton Match Preview
Wigan goalkeeper Chris Kirkland will be out for as much as three weeks after damaging his collarbone in training. Backup Vladimir Stojkovic played in goal in the 2-1 loss to Blackburn Rovers midweek. Wigan are said to be interested in Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David De Gea, although Manchester United may also be after the young keeper. Argentine striker Marco Ruben appears to have made a switch to Wigan from Villareal. Wigan are now just two points above the relegation zone and the remainder of their season is likely to be focused on Premier League survival.
Everton started the season off very poorly indeed, with a big loss at home to Arsenal. But in recent weeks they have been returning to the kind of form that made them such an appealing entity last season. Nobody in the summer of last year would have contested the Toffees’ candidacy for top four status this season, but the level of play needed to get to there simply hasn’t been evident for the first part of this campaign. But quality has been improving. Recent loan moves brought American Landon Donovan over from the LA Galaxy, and Philippe Senderos in from Arsenal. With the return from long term injury of Spaniard Mikel Arteta, and the consistent high quality play from Everton’s midfield of Fellaini, Pienaar and Cahill, the Goodison Park faithful have every reason to hope again.
