05 December 2021, 22:00
There are no easy matches in the Premier League, and Arsenal may be feeling that now with a run of tough fixtures before entering the notoriously packed festive period.
A Tale of two managers
While on paper Everton may seem a simpler task than the Gunners' ill-fated trip to Old Trafford, predictably unravelled by Ronaldo, bear in mind this is a wounded Everton side still reeling from defeat in the Merseyside derby. Rafael Benitez is starting to feel the pressure from fans, will know a response to the Liverpool defeat is demanded and tactically he is known to match any opponent. This will be another unique test in Mikel Arteta's young managerial career so far.
Everton therefore, while not likely to be a contender for European qualification this season, would not surprise anyone by pulling off a decent upset here and elsewhere throughout the rest of the year. Arsenal meanwhile need to be careful their own European push is not derailed too much by a couple of losses.
Youngsters continue to impress
Even in defeat against Manchester United, Arsenal's two goals came from a couple of young bright talents in their current squad. Emile Smith Rowe is a successful product of their youth set-up while Martin Odegaard may be justifying his summer signing of a permanent contract. Both are reflective of the new youthful team Arteta has been trying to put his mark on and signs are promising for the future so far.
Everton are perhaps better known for their experienced squad including seasoned internationals like goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and Seamus Coleman, with Benitez a strong tactical mind from the dugout. They'll need to rely on this vast experience if they want to overcome their younger opponents.
This being a home match for Everton, the influence of fans cannot be underestimated. But this can work both ways for them on Monday night, as discontent seemed to be growing when the match against Liverpool started turning sour. If things do not start well it could be Everton who find the pressure being turned up on home soil, while Arsenal have the opportunity to dig the knife in further.