4 Key Battles That Could Decide Tottenham's Premier League Clash With Everton
Everton host Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Saturday as both clubs vie for a much needed three points.
With an array of talent on display from both sides, much is expected of this bout due to take place at Goodison Park.
Which skirmishes on the pitch will potentially decide the fate of this crunch game though? Here's four we think fans will want to look out for:
4. Leighton Baines vs Kyle Walker-Peters
The veteran and the newcomer could face off in L4 if Walker-Peters has to stand in for the injured Kieran Trippier again this season.
Baines will be making his 300th league appearance for the Toffees on Saturday, and his positioning, runs from deep, quick feet and crossing ability could cause no end of problems for the 20-year-old.
Walker-Peters, though, is an unknown quantity and may have the beating of his opponent on the counter for Spurs.
An underrated battle that could be the key in deciding which team wins.
3. Moussa Dembele vs Morgan Schneiderlin
Rated as one of the most difficult opponents to come up against, Dembele will lock horns with Schneiderlin the middle of the park when the Lilywhites and Blues face off.
The Belgium international's unrivalled strength, skill and poise on the ball make him a formidable foe, but his French counterpart will hope to be a rare winner in any fight to secure possession for his side.
A truly bruising encounter between the duo is set to dominate the midfield areas, and will prove vital in securing the ball for each team's attacking forays.
2. Sandro Ramirez vs Spurs' Centre-Back Pairing
Fresh from the heel problem that plagued the start of his Everton career, striker Sandro will face another tough encounter if selected to start.
The 22-year-old will be tasked with taking on Tottenham's colossal duo of Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld, and while he won't have the beating of them in the air there are ways for the Spaniard to do damage.
His pace and ability to work the flanks will look to stretch the Lilywhites' backline and provide space for others to make the most of, and Sandro will hope that his efforts are not in vain come 5pm on Saturday.
1. Harry Kane vs Michael Keane
With another August over, Harry Kane will finally hope to get his season off the mark for Mauricio Pochettino's men.
It has become a running joke that the Spurs striker doesn't score in August and, fresh from his scoring exploits for England, he will hope to fire his side to victory over Ronald Koeman's charges.
Standing in his way will be Three Lions team mate Keane, who has taken to life with his new club with relative ease.
The 25-year-old will need to be at his best to stop Kane, and doing so could give Everton every chance of securing a win of their own.
