Academy

U-23s: Arsenal v Everton - The Brief

We're back in Premier League 2 action on Monday night, as we look to continue our excellent run of form when Everton visit Meadow Park.

THE STORY SO FAR



 

Steve Gattingโ€™s side have scored 15 goals in their last four matches in all competitions, and are the form side in the division.

 

With seven games remaining of the campaign, we trail PL2 leaders Liverpool by four points, and a win against their Merseyside rivals would further increase the pressure at the top.

 

THE OPPOSITION

 

Everton are a club with a well-earned reputation for producing talented youngsters through their academy, and they always provide a stern test.

David Unsworth's side boast the array of talent you would expect of the Toffees, but are still trying to fight their way back after a dip in form over November and December.

 

But since the turn of the year, they have won all three of their matches in all competitions, including a 2-1 victory last time out against Chelsea.

 

ONE TO WATCH

 

He may have been the most low-profile addition of the January transfer window, but Konstantinos Mavropanos has earned rave reviews since his arrival.

The Greek centre back has underlined his vast potential with some elegant displays at the back, as we have won all three matches that he has played in.

The 20-year-old can expect a tough challenge against Everton though, particularly up against Bassala Sambou, who has three goals in his last two games.

 

LAST TIME WE MET

 

A late flurry of goals condemned us to a 4-2 defeat when we travelled to Everton in late September.

Marcus Maguane - who recently signed for Barcelona - scored twice for Gatting's side but we left Southport empty-handed.

 

FOLLOW THE ACTION

 

We will be providing updates on our Twitter account, @Arsenal.

 

Kick-off is at 7pm (UK time).