Republic of Ireland striker Clinton Morrison will finally make his Premiership debut for Birmingham at Everton tomorrow. The £4.5million signing from Crystal Palace has been suffering from a groin problem which kept him out of the opening two matches with Arsenal and Blackburn. But he safely came through a behind-doors practice game on Monday and is now ready to face the Merseysiders.
Steve Bruce’s side badly need the firepower of Morrison as they failed to find the net in the first two matches. Morrison said: “This has been a frustrating period for me having to sit out the first couple of games. But these things happen in football and I am determined to make an impact in the Premiership.” Meanwhile, goalkeeper Richard Wright is Everton's only major injury worry.
Elsewhere tomorrow evening, Irish international Mark Kinsella makes his home debut for Aston Villa as they take on Manchester City at Villa Park. Striker Juan Pablo Angel could be in line for his first start of the season following his return to fitness from a knee injury. Peter Schmeichel should be fit for City despite suffering a slight recurrence of his knee problem in the win against Newcastle on Saturday.
Liverpool chief Gerard Houllier may recall John Arne Riise for their trip to Blackburn. Riise was rested for the win over Southampton because he had played a full match for Norway in a friendly earlier that week. By resting Riise, Houllier was able to accommodate Michael Owen and El-Hadji Diouf up front with Emile Heskey on the left of midfield, where Riise usually plays. But Houllier may decide to rest Owen or Heskey and recall Riise in a less-attack minded formation at Ewood Park. Blackburn will be without Keith Gillespie, who is suspended.
Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri seems certain to keep faith with Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink up front at Southampton as he looks to ensure that the Dutchman stays at the club. Gianfranco Zola has so far started both of Chelsea's games this season alongside Hasselbaink, although Ranieri will have to decide whether to recall Eidur Gudjohnsen instead.
Tonight, Arsenal take on West Bromwich Albion, while Charlton face Tottenham.
Filed by James Boylan
