After a great start to the Premier League season for the Blues, the last few weeks have been underwhelming due to injuries and suspensions to several key players.

Going from 1st place to now sitting in 7th, the Toffees need to bounce back in the next few matches. Here’s what to expect in the next few weeks for the Toffees:

Nov. 22nd vs. Fulham

Without exaggeration, the next three matches are all must-win matches in order to continue to fight for a European spot next season. The Blues are back in action against Fulham in the first week back after the international break. Statistically this should be a simple win for the Blues (if there is such a thing!). This is a great opportunity for Everton and Jordan Pickford to get a much-needed clean sheet and boost the confidence of both the squad and the fans. The attacking abilities of Aleksandar Mitrovic and Ademola Lookman will be the two main threats for Fulham. It’s also worth noting that former Everton player Antonee Robinson’s pace from the back could be a potential problem as well as the right side of Ancelotti’s starting 11, which has been leaky and slow.

Nov. 28th vs. Leeds

Possibly the most difficult of the three upcoming matches for Everton, this will be the first time these two sides face off in the Premier League since 2004. Danger men for Leeds include Jack Harrison, Patrick Bamford and Rodrigo. All three of these players offer something very different and will not be an easy task for the shaky Everton defense. Ancelotti will need to make sure the team is well organized and disciplined in possession. Anything less will give Leeds extra opportunities, which they have been capitalizing on all season. As always, a solid defense will be key as previously stated, but scoring goals and giving Dominic Calvert-Lewin, James and Richarlison chances to score and create will be massive against the rather unimpressive defensive team sheet of Leeds.

Dec. 5th vs. Burnley

Burnley will be looking to regain form in the next few weeks just like Everton, and much of this game will be dependent on what happens in the next two weeks. Regardless, Everton will be looking at this match and expecting another 3 points. So, what’s the key to victory? Two words: clean sheet. At the time of writing, Burnley has managed to score only 3 goals in 7 Premier League matches while conceding 12. Much like the Fulham match, this is a crucial opportunity to inject some confidence in Jordan Pickford. If the Blues can capture all 9 points from the upcoming matches, Everton can propel themselves right back into the top 4 at the start of December.