Ask Onix
Everton's road resurgence under Moyes
Everton have become the Premier League's second-best away side since David Moyes returned as manager 14 months ago, trailing only Arsenal in road wins. The Toffees travel to Emirates Stadium on Saturday with a record of four victories in their last five away matches, raising questions about whether they can disrupt the league leaders' title charge.
From relegation battles to European dreams
When Moyes took charge in January 2025, Everton sat just one point above the relegation zone. Now, they enter the weekend in eighth place, five points behind fifth-a position that could secure Champions League football. Qualifying for any European competition would mark a dramatic turnaround for a club recently plagued by points deductions and survival struggles.
While their new stadium, Hill Dickinson, is designed for European nights, it is Everton's away form that has driven their rise. They are unbeaten in nine of their last 10 road games, with their only loss coming in October. Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman believes they can test Arsenal's title credentials.
"In the past, you'd go there worried, hoping for a result. This year, it's different. You're facing the team seven points clear at the top, but I think it's Arsenal who'll be more nervous. They know they can't take Everton lightly."
Leon Osman, former Everton midfielder
Defying the odds on hostile grounds
Everton's 1-0 win at Arsenal in 2021 remains their only Premier League victory in 29 attempts at the Emirates. Yet this season, they have secured unlikely wins at traditionally tough venues. In November, they defeated Manchester United at Old Trafford-Moyes' first away victory against his former club-despite Idrissa Gueye's controversial red card. In January, they ended Aston Villa's 11-game home winning streak, and last month, they triumphed at Newcastle United, who had nearly beaten Barcelona days earlier.
Osman added: "Against Arsenal, Everton see an opportunity. They'll be confident of getting something, with no pressure as the away side."
Tactical blueprint for success
Everton's away strategy defies their struggles at home. They average the lowest possession (39.3%) of any Premier League team on the road but have conceded the fewest goals alongside Arsenal and kept the most clean sheets. Their set-piece defending is particularly impressive-Arsenal have scored 21 of their 59 league goals from corners or free-kicks this season, yet Everton are the only side yet to concede from a set-piece away from home.
Moyes' approach prioritizes compact defending, forcing opponents wide and relying on Jordan Pickford's shot-stopping. The Toffees typically deploy three or four center-backs to dominate aerial duels, trusting Pickford to handle long-range efforts.
Key players driving the charge
While Pickford, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Iliman Ndiaye have been standout performers, Osman highlights James Garner as pivotal to Everton's resilience. The 24-year-old, who has played at full-back and midfield this season, leads the team in touches, tackles, chances created, and expected assists.
"Garner is a throwback to an all-round midfielder. He defends, competes, covers ground, and creates goals. He sets the tone for Everton in and out of possession-one of the first names on Moyes' team sheet."
Leon Osman
Osman believes a strong performance against Arsenal's Declan Rice could secure Garner his first England call-up.
"I'd be amazed if he's not in the next England squad. His form has been better than any midfielder in his role, and I'd put him up against Rice. Thomas Tuchel should take a look-his versatility is vital for tournament football."
Leon Osman
Title race implications
A potential Everton upset could see Manchester City close within four points of Arsenal, with a game in hand, if they win at West Ham later on Saturday. For Moyes, a repeat of his 2023 win with West Ham at the Emirates would be a seismic shock-but Osman insists Everton's away formula makes them dangerous.
