Everton enter Hill Dickinson Stadium with a 3‑4‑2 shape that has begun to impose a high‑press rhythm, seeking to disrupt Coventry’s compact midfield block. Thierno Barry’s four goals from nine matches give the Toffees a clear finishing edge, while James Tarkowski’s solitary assist from defence hints at an emerging set‑piece threat. Coventry, sitting 16th with a -7 goal difference, rely on Jack Rudoni’s three strikes from midfield and the incisive runs of Brandon Thomas‑Asante, but must travel from the Midlands and contend with a limited transition threat against Everton’s disciplined back line. The visitors’ survival instinct will demand a deep, organized shape and quick counter‑attacks, especially on the flanks where their limited width could be exposed by Everton’s full‑back overlaps. With Jack Grealish unavailable, Everton’s creative spark must come from the midfield engine room, making control of the central zones pivotal. If the Toffees can sustain pressure and convert chances from set pieces, the match could tilt decisively; otherwise, Coventry’s gritty resilience and ability to grind out a draw could keep the fixture finely balanced.