 David Moyes will look to get his European campaign off to a good start at home to the unknown Ukrainians on Thursday, but faces a tough test with a number of key players facing late fitness tests. Andrew Johnson, Mikel Arteta, Thomas Gravesen, Steven Pienaar and Time Howard are all doubtful for the game as the Merseysiders look for some stability to their season. Tim Cahill is still out with a foot injury.
The Toffees have fired too many blanks in front of goal since the start of the season and will need the likes of Yakubu to be in the mood for goals.
Metalist travel to England on the back of two victories following three straight defeats. They are likely to know far more about their opposition than Everton know about them and they will look to put that to good effect after making the long trip to Goodison Park.
After managing a previous best finish of fifth in their domestic league, Metalist qualified for Europe by finishing third last season and this is their first European campaign since a last 16 in 1988’s Cup Winners' Cup.
Kharkiv's key player is Ukrainian international midfielder Oleksandr Rykun who has a wealth of experience from his domestic league. African imports Onyekachi Nwoha (Nigeria) and Papa Gueye (Senegal) are also ones to watch.
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