Premier League: Everton v Norwich City match preview

A look ahead to this weekend's Premier League fixture at Goodison Park

Roberto Martinez looks on from the touchline (Peter Byrne/PA)

The corresponding fixture between the two sides, on the opening weekend of the season, brought about a draw that was well received by both managers.

As we reach the business end of the season however, both Roberto Martinez and Chris Hughton will be desperate for three points as they face very different battles at either end of the table.

Martinez has Everton in the mix for a top-four finish for the first time since David Moyes’ defining 2004-05 season at the Toffees. He will be aware that his side must capitalise on victories against the likes of Manchester United and defeat teams lower down the table if they are to reach the promised land of Champions League football.

Everton recently suffered a set-back at home to bottom of the table Sunderland on Boxing Day but the key is recovery and consistency, the Toffees have been unbeaten since.

Norwich have been starved of wins as of late, as they creep ever closer to the drop. Despite sitting a few places above the relegation-zone in 15th, the Canaries are only three points clear. Hughton will know his side are not far off a winning formula though, as Norwich have only actually been beaten twice in seven games.

Gary Hooper’s run of form in December will be key, if the Canaries are going to start turning these draws into wins.

KICK-OFF: Saturday, 3pm

PAST THREE MEETINGS…

Norwich 2 (Whittaker, van Wolfswinkel) Everton 2 (Barkley, Coleman), Premier League, August 2013

Norwich 2 (Kamara, Holt) Everton 1 (Osman), Premier League, February 2013

Everton 1 (Naismith) Norwich 1 (Bassong), Premier League, November 2012

STATS…

Everton have not beaten Norwich since 2005.

A draw is the most frequent result between these two sides in the league.

Everton have the second best defensive record in the division, conceding only 0.95 goals per-game on average.

ODDS…

Everton to win: 1.36

Norwich to win: 8.50

Draw: 4.75

TV: Highlights on BBC1 at 10.30pm