Everton v Newcastle: Ronny Goodlass talks tactics

May 10 2008

EVERTON will be determined to ensure the season does not end as an anti-climax tomorrow.

But the threat to their UEFA Cup ambitions will come from a side playing without any pressure and with one or two players who may want to prove a point to manager Kevin Keegan as he weighs up his squad for next year.

The home fans will have to play their part by being patient – even though I am sure they would love to see a cavalry charge that puts Everton 5-0 up!

Defence

Steve Harper has been at Newcastle for 10 years and many might wonder why he never moved on.

As a Newcastle supporter, though, perhaps he has been happy with his back-up role, though he is now enjoying his longest run in the first team. He has a good temperament and is a safe handler.

Habib Beye enjoyed plenty of success at Marseille, but struggled at first to adapt after joining in 2007. However he has become increasingly accomplished. Comfortable on the ball.

Steven Taylor is an Academy product who has gone on to play 25 times for England Under-21s. An aggressive defender, he can play at right back or centre half where his heading ability is a big plus. Committed in the tackle. Senegalese international Abdoulaye Faye is another player who is strong in the air and puts his tackles in.

Midfield

Geremi has an impressive haul of medals to his name.

Not many players can match two Champions League winners medals, two African up of Nations medals and an Olympic gold with Cameroon.

Rarely gives the ball away, he will look to keep the team on the move.

Nicky Butt is another player with an impressive trophy cabinet, having been involved in six title-winning sides at Manchester United, two FA Cups and a Champions League. Not just a ball-winner in the midfield, he is a very intelligent influence on Newcastle. Always makes himself available and will lead by example. Despite being in the game for such a long time, his attitude remains first class.

Attack

Newcastle’s success recently has been based on a three-man attack.

But in the absence of the injured Mark Viduka, manager Keegan will have to decide whether to stick with that formation and give either Alan Smith or Damien Duff a more forward role.

Michael Owen has been on of the game’s great goalscorers ever since he made his mark as a 17-year-old with Liverpool by scoring on his debut.

He does not have the devastating pace he once had, but his sharp enough and still a big danger snapping up the chances that come his way.

Obafemi Martins is quick, strong and works hard for the team. If he and Owen work closely together, they will pose problems for the home side. Still only 23, his goal-scoring record is already impressive.

Alan Smith signed a five-year deal when he moved from Manchester United in 2007, but while he has been used in midfield, he is at his best up front. Always puts in a gritty and determined display.

Dangerman

MICHAEL OWEN – will the former Liverpool man produce a rude awakening for Everton’s European dreams? Still the great predator in and around the box.

Overall verdict

Newcastle have improved recently, but will want to finish on a high after their midweek defeat to Chelsea.

Everton, too, have shown better form in their most recent matches and need a point to qualify for the UEFA Cup – which they will get.

Ronny Goodlass was talking to RICHARD WILLIAMSON