Everton vs Watford: Premier League match preview

It’s a big game for…

John Stones. The promising young defender has been subject of what has been described as ‘a tapping up process’ from Chelsea who seek his signature - it will be interesting to see his performances in reaction to their interest. Whether his head has been turned remains to be seen.

Best stat…

88 - Watford’s dealings in the transfer window have not gone unnoticed. Out of their nine new signings, there’s 88 Champions League’s games’ worth of experience. Manager Quique Flores will hope that this big-game experience helps keep the Hornets up this season

Remember when…

The last time Everton played Watford in the league they won 3-0. Andy Johnson bagged a brace before a Leon Osman curler wrapped up the points.

Player to watch…

Ross Barkley: A mercurial talent- The English midfielder’s one real problem is that no-one knows his best position. With Romelu Lukaku occupying the lone striker role in Martinez’s 4-2-3-1 formation Barkley will be likely to continue in the number 10 role- despite telling the media last year that a spot upfront would suit his skills perfectly. How Watford deal with the powerful midfielder will be interesting.

Past three-meetings…

Watford 0 Everton 3 (Johnson 2, Osman) Premier League, February 2007

Everton 2 (Johnson, Arteta) Watford 1 (Stubbs), Premier League, August 2006

Watford 1 (Mooney) Everton 2 (Hughes, Watson), FA Cup, January 2001

Form guide…

Everton pre-season : WLWWLL

Watford pre-season: WVWWWLL

Vital information…

KICK-OFF TIME: Saturday, 3pm

TV: Highlights on BBC1