Lille vs Everton: Europa League match preview

A look ahead to tonight’s Europa League fixture at Stade Pierre-Mauroy

Roberto Martinez remonstrates on the sideline during Everton's 3-2 defeat to Crystal Palace (Getty Images)

Roberto Martinez will be hoping that his side continue to perform in the same manner that saw the Toffees brush aside Aston Villa at the weekend. The French hosts, LOSC Lille, come into the game having failed to win their last three games in all competitions.

Everton have taken four points from their first two Group H fixtures and know that a win in France would bolster their chances of qualifying top of the group and into the knockout stages. Following what can be described as a difficult start to the season, Martinez’s team are now looking to gain some momentum with the likes of Ross Barkley back from an extended period on the treatment table.

LOSC Lille will offer a tough test despite sitting just eighth in Ligue 1. Arguably their biggest threat comes in the form of Liverpool bound Divock Origi, who has been loaned to the French side from the Reds until the end of the season. This will be the 19-year-old's first taste of the blue side of Merseyside and the young Belgian international will be looking to impress as the anticipation for his arrival at Anfield grows.

Everton will hope to nullify this threat and deliver a performance equal to that seen at Goodison Park on their last outing.

KICK-OFF: Thursday, 6pm

PAST THREE MEETINGS…

The Toffees have never met LOSC Lille in any competitive fixture leaving the door open to create their own piece of European history.

STATS…

Thursday’s game will be Everton’s first ever competitive tie against French opposition.

Lille have only won once in their last four competitive fixtures against English teams.

Lille are without a win in five European fixtures.

Everton’s Kevin Mirallas began his professional career at Lille in 2004.

Everton are yet to hit the woodwork in this year’s competition.

ODDS…

Lille Win: 2.45

Everton Win: 2.8

Draw: 2.8

CLASSIC MOMENT/MATCH

TV: Live on IT4 and ITV4 HD 6pm