REPUBLIC of Ireland midfielder Kevin Kilbane is likely to play at left-back for Wigan against Everton following the departure of Leighton Baines to the Toffees.

Manager Chris Hutchings has run out of time in his bid to bring in a replacement for the defender before the opening day.

New signing Michael Brown is ruled out through suspension while Ryan Taylor remains sidelined with a shin injury.

Everton will be without three key players when they open their season .

Tim Cahill is suffering from a recurrence of his broken metatarsal, new boy Baines has a hamstring strain while young striker James Vaughan is sidelined until November with a dislocated shoulder.

It leaves manager David Moyes with an already stretched squad, although £4million new signing Phil Jagielka will make his league debut for the Toffees, while on-loan midfielder Steve Pienaar is also in the squad.

Everton (from): Howard, Hibbert, Valente, Stubbs, Yobo, Lescott, De Silva, Carsley, Arteta, Osman, Johnson, Anichebe, Ruddy, Boyle, Pienaar, Neville, Van der Meyde, Jutiewicz.

Wigan Athletic (from): Kirkland, Melchiot, Boyce, Bramble, Hall, Kilbane, Valencia, Koumas, Skoko, Landzaat, Cotterill, Sibierski, Camara, Heskey, Aghahowa, Nash, Pollitt, Folan, Granqvist. 

Last season: Everton 2 Wigan 2

Key opponent: Mikel Arteta - Classy midfielder will dictate the game if allowed

Prediction: Everton 1 Wigan 1 - It will be tough for Wigan but if they keep the tempo high they could earn a point

You can get 10/1 on Wigan winning 1-0 with Betfred. For this and more odds, click here.

Agree with the prediction? Have your say.

Tweet