The Dugout Discussion – Monday

The final match of Gameweek 16 sees Everton look for a first win in four attempts this evening, as QPR roll up to Goodison. Roberto Martinez’ men have failed to replicate last term’s heroics so far and, like their visitors, have triumphed in only four of the first 15 rounds of fixtures.

The home side will be buoyed by their opponents’ woeful away form, though. Harry Redknapp’s side have lost every match outside of Loftus Road so far and with top scorer Charlie Austin serving a one-match suspension tonight, the R’s will be reliant on in-form midfielder Leroy Fer to bag a third goal in four appearances. The R’s centre-half Steven Caulker misses out altogether tonight, as Richard Dunne is partnered by Nedum Onouha in the heart of the back-four.

For the Toffees, Romelu Lukaku carries the major goal threat. The big Belgian has scored in each of his last four home starts and with the R’s conceding more than two goals per away match, he’ll fancy his chances of extending that streak. Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman’s raiding runs from full-back should also play a prominent part in Everton’s attacks, whilst Kevin Mirallas’ goal and assist in the last three suggests he’s finding his form just in time for this one. Elsewhere for the hosts, Steven Naismith has shrugged off a hamstring injury and returns to the starting XI.