Preview: Everton vs. Young Boys

Everton are the overwhelming favourites to advance in the Europa League on Thursday when they host Young Boys in the second leg of their last-32 encounter.

The Toffees earned a convincing 4-1 win in Switzerland last week to give them a major advantage in the tie.

Romelu Lukaku was the star of the show at the Stade du Suisse as his hat-trick saw Everton put one foot in the next round of the tournament.

However, Roberto Martinez's side are still struggling for consistency in all competitions. They have failed to win two matches in a row since November, while their last game in the Premier League saw them held to a 2-2 draw by struggling Leicester City.

Martinez has urged his players not to take Young Boys lightly, despite their impressive victory in the first leg. The Spaniard is hoping that his players avoid complacency and give their opponents plenty of respect.

Young Boys are also finding it difficult to put a run of positive results together, though they come into this game full of confidence after beating rivals Basel 4-2 in the league at the weekend.

Manager Uli Forte has admitted that it will be difficult for his team to progress, though he will still be hoping that they can turn the tie around.

John Stones is suspended for the visitors, while Aiden McGeady, Leon Osman and Steven Pienaar all remain doubtful through injury.

David von Ballmoos is missing with a shoulder problem for the home side, who could also be without Matias Vitkieviez and Gonzalo Zarate.

Everton:

Form in Europa League: DDWWLD Form in all competitions: DWDLWD

Possible starting lineup: Howard; Coleman, Alcaraz, Jagielka, Baines; Barry, Besic; McCarthy, Barkley, Naismith; Lukaku

Young Boys:

Form in Europa League: LWLWWL Form in all competitions: WLDWLW

Possible starting lineup: Mvogo; Hadergjonaj, Vilotic, Von Bergen, Lecjaks; Steffen, Gajic; Nuzzolo, Sanogo Junior, Kubo; Hoarau

Sports Mole says: 3-1