Premier League 14/15: Team By Team Preview And Predictions

6. Everton

Last Season: 5th Manager: Roberto Martinez Opening Fixture: Leicester (a) Transfer Activity: Everton's squad will be largely the same this season, since half of the players they have brought in this summer were playing for them on loan in the last campaign. Roberto Martinez has broken the club's transfer record to bring Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea) back to Goodison Park, whilst the ever-dependable Gareth Barry (Manchester City) has re-signed for three years on a free transfer. There are two new faces at the club though in the shape of Bosnia World Cup star Muhamed Besic (Ferencvaros), who turned down a host of other top clubs to sign for the Toffees, and highly-rated youngster Brendan Galloway (MK Dons). Notable departures from the club this summer include Apostolos Vellios, John Lundstram and Magaye Gueye. Possible Starting XI: Howard; Coleman, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; McCarthy, Barry; Mirallas, Barkley, Pienaar; Lukaku Key Player: Leighton Baines Verdict: Everton have had a season now to get used to Roberto Martinez' possession style of football and they are a far better side for it. David Moyes worked wonders at Goodison Park during his time there but Martinez has taken them to the next level. Big money signings like Romelu Lukaku and previously Marouane Fellaini are relatively rare in comparison to the likes of Chelsea and Man City with who Everton are competing to get into Europe, yet they always seem to be there or thereabouts. Martinez will be aware that any new players he brings into the club this summer will have to take time to adapt to the team's style of football, so in that sense he will enjoy the continuity that comes with having such a similar squad to last year. That said, he will still be looking to bring in one or two new faces before the transfer window closes to give his squad that added depth to compete on all fronts. If he does that, Everton should do well again this season, although the top four may remain a little out of reach. Prediction: 6th