Everton v Krasnodar: The kids are alright, so back them to win

Ghana star Christian Atsu could get a rare chance to shine for Everton

Everton have qualified for the last 32, and even though they are expected to field a team of kids and fringe players, Kevin Hatchard expects them to overcome a dispirited Krasnodar side...

Everton v Krasnodar
Thursday December 11, 20:05
Live on ITV4

While their Premier League campaign has often hit choppy waters, Everton have found the Europa League to be nothing but smooth sailing. They have negotiated the first five group games unbeaten, have beaten a very good Wolfsburg side both at home and away, and they have won their section with a game to spare. Bravo, Senor Martinez, bravo.

Everton sign off the group phase with a home game against Russian side Krasnodar, who have nothing to play for, as they cannot reach the last 32. Although they have gone unbeaten against both Everton and Lille so far, two heavy defeats to Wolfsburg cost them the chance to progress. The Bulls are yet to win in the group stage, and they are still searching for their first clean sheet.

To make matters worse, Krasnodar are on poor form. They were stuffed 4-0 at Zenit at the weekend, and they have lost three of their last four away games in all competitions. Their defence is far from watertight, with 17 goals leaked in their last nine games.

Everton boss Roberto Martinez will be mindful of the need to improve his club's Premier League form, so he is likely to use this game to get minutes into the legs of fringe players, and blood a few rising stars like Tyias Browning, Luke Garbutt and perhaps even England U17 captain Ryan Ledson. This mix of players wouldn't put me off backing the home side - the youngsters will be keen to show they can cope, while it's a great chance for talented players like Arouna Kone and Christian Atsu to give the manager a nudge.

I'm pleasantly surprised to see Everton nudging towards evens to win the game. The Toffees are unbeaten in their last five home games in all competitions, and they have relished their European exploits in front of the Goodison Park faithful. Krasnodar are average travellers at best, they lack motivation, and they are struggling for form. TV pundit Alan Hansen famously said you can never win anything with kids, so let's hope he's proved wrong once again.

Recommended Bet
Back Everton to win at 1.9620/21

2014/15 Europa League P/L (1pt per bet)

Points Staked: 44

Points Returned: 51.38

P/L: +7.38 points