John Ebbrell wants Everton’s Under-23s to build on the momentum gained by their 3-0 win at Chelsea last time out when they take on Tottenham Hotspur at Goodison on Sunday (1pm kick-off).
The defending Premier League 2 champions recorded an excellent victory on the road in late August – their first of the new campaign after a draw and a defeat against West Ham United and Leicester City respectively.
By their own admission, the young Blues are not happy with that start, and assistant coach Ebbrell has called on the players to eclipse the levels they demonstrated at Aldershot in defeating Chelsea.
“We had a good win at Chelsea,” he told evertonfc.com. “We haven’t really started the season as we would have liked but we went down there and scored three good goals and were worthy winners on the night.
“The players produced an excellent performance but we know Spurs always give you a good game. They are really good at this level so we know we have to be right at it and surpass those levels we reached against Chelsea. That’s what we will be looking for from the boys.
“We know we will be in for a very difficult game. The Under-23s side plays very similar to their first team so they will be attack-minded, move the ball about quickly and try to get in behind. They like to press as well.
“But we will be looking to exploit areas where we know we are strong so I expect a really good, competitive game.”
The fixture also sees the Under-23s return to Goodison Park for the first time this season.
Ebbrell has his own fond memories of playing at the Grand Old Lady, but is looking for the players to not allow the grandiose arena to affect their game on Sunday.
“It is always great to play at Goodison,” he added. “I still love going back there even now as a coach. Looking at it from the players’ point of view, it is still a big occasion for them but they need to make sure that doesn’t get the better of them.
“We want them to play to the maximum even though they are at Goodison. We have seen in the past performances that have not been quite what we have wanted and we have put that down to possibly playing the game there.
“So we are looking for the players to go and express themselves, play on the front foot, enjoy ourselves and, of course, win the game.”
Kick-off is at 1pm and Season Ticket holders and official members can attend the game for free. Entry is otherwise £5 for adults and £3 for juniors. Entrance is via turnstiles 48/49 and 53/54. Turnstiles open from 12.15pm.
The game will also be broadcast live for official members. For more details or to sign up,
click here.
Everton FC