By John P
September 23 2005

Everton have been given a golden opportunity to start the premiership season at home to Wigan with Beattie and Duncan Ferguson battling for fitness ahead of the game.

The rumours that VDM will be fit for the match have not been confirmed and it is likely the only players returning to the first team are James Beattie and Li Tie. Li Tie has enjoyed success in his rehabilition in reserve team matches and has found his scoring feet as well.

Paul Jewell is looking forward to the encounter but states that the bad run will not continue.

“I think we all accept Everton are in a false position at the moment,” he said.

“They have far too many good players to be down among the dead men for long.

“Expectations are high because they did so well last season when they were supposed to be in turmoil following the sale of Wayne Rooney.

“They have to hit form at some time and although I hope their bad run continues this weekend, I expect them to be pushing for a European place come May.”

Squad from: Martyn, Wright, Neville, Ferrari, Valente, Hibbert, Weir, Yobo, Li Tie, Osman, Kilbane, Davies, Arteta, Cahill, McFadden, Beattie, Ferguson, Bent