Welcome Break for Everton

There are few Premier League teams who will have welcomed this weekend's break from league action more than Roberto Martinez's Everton side.

Now down in 13th place in the table having lost their last four Premier League encounters, Everton have enjoyed the most miserable of Christmas periods and will be glad of the distraction that the FA Cup third round offers.

Dismal Run
After such a dismal run, little will be expected of Everton when they meet West Ham United at Goodison Park on Tuesday night and the smart money will certainly be on Sam Allardyce's men to come away with a win.

Despite this, the lack of pressure and expectation might actually benefit Martinez and his team - who have looked particularly nervous at the back in recent weeks. Whichever way your money is placed, you can keep up with the latest odds and betting news for the game at Blue Square.

Long Wait
This season marks 20 years since Everton's last trophy - a famous FA Cup victory over Manchester United in 1995, and their fans are hungry for success. But they would be happy to sacrifice an FA Cup run this season for an upturn in league form.

Indeed, the Everton’s fans might actually recognise that their team's best chance of glory this season comes in the form of the Europa League, where they have really shown what they are capable of.

Everton do not have the squad to compete on all fronts and whilst they are in such a Premier League slump, and are still in the midst of a European campaign, a few weekends off might actually be welcome.

Proud History
Like Everton, Martinez has a proud FA Cup history and will certainly not throw in the towel against the Hammers. But he will be far more concerned with the Toffees registering an improved, more robust performance than with the result.
Whatever happens on Tuesday, the break from the Premier League grind will certainly be welcomed by the Everton players and they will be hoping that it will signal a real turning point in their season.