Everton have an immediate opportunity to get that derby defeat out of their system when they take on Wolves in the Carabao Cup third round.
It has been a strange couple of days following Saturday’s game. There’s the obvious – and familiar – feeling of disappointment at yet another Anfield defeat. But there is also encouragement to be taken from their second-half performance, tainted by frustration that an awful first 30 minutes ultimately proved costly.
Referee Darren England’s performance was also
put under the spotlight after a few controversial decisions – most notably the booking of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall for taking a quick free-kick, the failure to book Conor Bradley for a flurry of fouls, and the decision to award only three minutes of stoppage time.
That said, it did not have a bearing on the result. Everton paid the price for a sloppy start that nearly saw them completely overrun.
Time to move on quickly.
We say it every year, but Everton must see the Carabao Cup as an opportunity. It is likely to be lower down the priority list for those competing in Europe or concerned about relegation. The success of Crystal Palace and Newcastle should act as inspiration.
The competition has never been kind to Everton over the years – though some of that has been self-inflicted, with weakened sides often fielded. But for the first time in a while, the Toffees have a little bit of depth, so could make a handful of changes (but no more) and still name a strong side.
Previous meeting
Wolves 2–3 Everton, 20 August 2025
A quick turnaround sees them head back to Molineux just over three weeks since their league meeting, where goals from Beto, Iliman Ndiaye and Dewsbury-Hall secured a 3–2 win that should have been far more comfortable than it was.
The opposition
Things have not gone well for Wolves since the sides last met. They suffered their fifth straight defeat of the season against Leeds on Saturday and sit bottom without a single point.
Vítor Pereira – who, despite their poor form, was awarded a two-and-a-half-year contract last week – is under pressure, though most of the fans’ ire seems directed at the club’s board over a perceived lack of investment in recent years.
Supporters have posted images showing how few tickets have been sold so far for Tuesday’s game, suggesting the locals will be voting with their feet.
Pereira, however, has indicated he will name a strong side as he looks to kick-start their season – so this game may carry more importance to them than you might expect.
Team news
There are likely to be a few bumps and bruises from Saturday’s game that will need assessing. Vitaly Mykolenko made his comeback from injury at Anfield, so may be rested here. Thierno Barry and Tyler Dibling are also likely to be handed starts. The game is probably too soon for Jarrad Branthwaite.
Final word
Everton have shown they are capable of beating a Wolves side out of form and bereft of confidence. This is a real opportunity – but they have fallen at familiar hurdles before.
