Why Leeds United are prepared as can be for Everton showdown

Ian Poveda believes Leeds United are as prepared as can be to take on a star-studded Everton outfit at Goodison Park.

Carlo Ancelotti's men welcome the Whites to Merseyside this evening (17:30) in Premier League action.

Marcelo Bielsa has seen his side pick up just one victory in their last five top flight outings, while the Toffees returned to winning ways at Fulham last time out.

United returned to form with a strong display against Arsenal - hitting the woodwork three times at Elland Road - but failed to find the back of the net in a frustrating 0-0 draw.

Poveda, who was a second half substitute against the Gunners, has been a useful impact player off the bench for Leeds this term.

The 20-year-old is yet to be handed his first top flight start, but has featured in five out of United's nine league fixtures.

Everton made a stellar start to the season under their Italian boss, and Poveda is wary of the quality Ancelotti's outfit possesses ahead of tonight's clash.

“Everton are doing really well,” he said.

“They started off with a bang and they’ve got really important players, like James Rodriguez, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Allan and Richarlison, they’re all big, big players and it’s going to be a tough game.

“We know this, but we’re prepared so it will be exciting to watch.”

Asked about the confidence that the United squad can take from the performance against Arsenal, he said: "Overall it was a great team performance, we had loads of chances and we should have finished them.

“We were unlucky, three times hitting the post, but we have to focus on the next game.

“The team is happy with the performance, we didn’t play an ordinary side either, we played Arsenal and they are a big football club.

“It gives us confidence, but I wouldn’t say we lack in that anyway, in every training session we’re always at it and we’re always motivated for the next game.

“This is what everyone wanted with promotion to the Premier League and we’re here, enjoying every second.”