EPL: Everton v Brighton preview

Everton v Brighton preview

Under-pressure boss Sam Allardyce is determined to end Everton's bad run of form ahead of a crucial Premier League fixture against Brighton on Saturday.

Allardyce suffered a sixth successive away defeat at Burnley on Saturday, with Everton dropping down into 11th in the table.

However, Everton have lost just one of their nine home league games since Ronald Koeman's departure (W6 D2), and that was against Manchester United in January.

Ahead of the Brighton match, Allardyce insists he wants to stay on at the Merseyside club.

He told reporters: "Of course. I am having talks with him (Moshiri) but those talks are confidential.

"I came out of retirement because there was a long-term plan at Everton, a long-term aspect of going forward which I was excited to be a part of and understanding the history of Everton football club.

"It is a difficult period at the moment, yes, but we have to turn that around and start on Saturday."

Brighton are unbeaten in five Premier League games (W3 D2) and have won back-to-back games in the competition for the first time.

Everton defender Ashley Williams is suspended as he starts a three-match ban for his red card at Burnley last weekend.

Captain Phil Jagielka returns to the squad after missing the game at Turf Moor and is likely to step into the void left by Williams.

Fellow centre-back Ramiro Funes Mori could make an appearance in a matchday squad for the first time in 11 months after knee surgery.

Brighton manager Chris Hughton has no new selection problems.

Defender Ezequiel Schelotto was forced off following a heavy in challenge in last weekend's win over Arsenal but he will be available to face Sam Allardyce's Toffees.

Midfielder Steve Sidwell, who has not played all season following back and ankle injuries, remains Albion's only absentee.