Analysis:
Everton who find themselves in an unfamiliar position at the bottom half are battling against relegation and they must avoid defeat here when they welcome high flying Tottenham to Goodison Park.
A disappointing start to the season have now put their hopes of European qualification in the balance. Everton have been badly hit by injuries this season that shows no sign of relenting, with three more players struck down in the midweek Europa League match against AEK Athens.
Everton did at least manage to claim a morale-boosting victory in a rain-soaked Greece as Diniyar Bilyaletdinov's early goal carried them through to the last 32. But how much that has taken out of the Everton players it remains to be seen after this match. As it is now Everton are just two points clear off the drop zone and need maximum points here.
Moyes will not be able to freshen up his side as much as he would like after three consecutive Premier League losses, with Jo, Sylvain Distin and Dan Gosling all doubtful after being forced off against AEK. Leon Osman has a foot injury, while Phil Jagielka, Mikel Arteta and Phil Neville are among the long-term absentees. John Heitinga is suspended after collecting a fifth yellow card of the season so Moyes is likely to ask the players to fill in unfamiliar positions here.
As for Tottenham, manager Harry Redknapp is convinced that his side can finish in the top four and they are currently 2 points away from third placed Arsenal.
And after losing out to an under-strength Manchester United side in midweek, Harry Redknapp will want to see improvement from his players. Redknapp is likely to go back to the lineup that drew 1-1 with Aston Villa last weekend.
That means that Michael Dawson and Sebastien Bassong should form the central defensive partnership once again with Ledley King (hamstring) and Jonathan Woodgate (groin) both still missing. Carlo Cudicini is facing a long spell out after injuring his wrists and pelvis in a motorcycling accident, although Luka Modric is closing in on a comeback following a fractured fibula.
Redknapp must also decide whether to start upfront with Peter Crouch or Robbie Keane alongside Jermain Defoe in attack.
Go for this match to finish all square and accept the 1/4 ball for Everton here.
Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser
