Everton and Nottingham Forest May Field Fringe Players in FA Cup Replays Amid Financial Uncertainty
With potential points deductions looming, both Everton and Nottingham Forest are cautious about picking up significant injuries in their FA Cup replays. This uncertainty may lead managers Sean Dyche and Nuno Espirito Santo to field fringe players in the upcoming matches.
Financial Sanctions
Both clubs have been charged with breaching financial rules, but the scale of the sanctions won’t be known until after the season. Everton has already had ten points deducted from their tally, and an appeal is scheduled for next month. If they lose the appeal and face another similar penalty, it would be devastating for the team.
Forest recently sacked Steve Cooper and may need reinforcements to avoid relegation. Nuno Espirito Santo has managed to lift spirits, but the club is still in trouble at the wrong end of the table.
FA Cup Takes a Backseat
Given the current circumstances, the FA Cup should take a backseat for both Everton and Nottingham Forest. While a possible appearance in the Wembley sunshine in May is appealing, the clubs must prioritize avoiding injuries and potential points deductions.
Everton’s upcoming match against Crystal Palace is crucial, especially with injuries to key players and Jordan Ayew’s call-up for the Africa Cup of Nations. Another draw is likely, and bet365 offers odds of 5/2 for this outcome.
Forest’s replay against Blackpool is also a burden for the team, as they are just four points above the relegation zone. Blackpool has been in good form at home this season and has odds of 3/1 to win the match.
Considering Everton’s recent nightmare defeat to Fulham in a penalty shootout, it is worth considering an investment in Crystal Palace qualifying for the next round. Betfred and Paddy Power offer odds of 17/10 for this outcome.
In other news, Championship club Norwich is favored to win their FA Cup replay against League One Bristol Rovers, with odds of 7/5 from Ladbrokes and Coral. Additionally, Gael Monfils is expected to beat Tomas Martin Etcheverry in straight sets in the second round of the Australian Open, with odds of 7/2 from Betway, bet365, and Bet Victor.
Source: Metro