Predicted Everton XI to play Stevenage – Martinez to retain strong side

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Match to be played on Saturday January 25 2014 at 17:30 GMT. Venue: Broadhall Way, Stevenage.

Everton face a difficult away trip to League One side Stevenage in the FA Cup this weekend.

Everton will be looking to recover after they failed to snatch a win away at West Brom earlier this week. It won’t be difficult with the home side enjoying a rare break from their difficulties in the third tier of English football.

Here’s the side Roberto Martinez may select for the game.

GK – Joel

This could be a chance for Martinez to hand Tim Howard a rare break. The American won’t like it but it gives Joel a chance to impress.

RB – Tony Hibbert

The experienced Everton star provides stability and leadership in the back four against a side that will look to make the game physical.

CB – John Heitinga

Heitinga is a very experienced player to have coming into the back four. It’s a chance for him to show Everton he still has value to them.

CB – Sylvain Distin

Distin’s size and presence will make him a key player for Everton against a side that will hit Everton with aerial balls regularly.

LB – Leighton Baines

This is a chance for Baines to completely control his side of the pitch. He should have the chance to get forward and be effective in attack.

RM – Aiden McGeady

This is a chance for McGeady to throw down a claim for a regular starting place in the Premier League. He has the skill and pace to cause Stevenage chaos.

CM – James McCarthy

McCarthy offers plenty of control in the middle of Everton’s team. He moves the ball on well and can also break up the play effectively.

CM – Leon Osman

Osman is another player who offers a lot of experience to this Everton side. He can create some momentum ahead of a long second half to the season.

AM – Kevin Mirallas

Mirallas is likely to continue in an attacking midfield role, in behind the main striker. One of his biggest assets is his pace to run beyond a defence.

LM – Magaye Gueye

Gueye could be thrown into the side by Martinez and the boss will be looking for him to work well with both full backs down either side of the pitch.

ST – Apostolos Vellios

This could be a rare chance for the big Greek forward to start. He’ll be fresh and Martinez will be looking for that energy and enthusiasm.

image: © eepaul