Yakubu set to hit ‘goal spree’

EVERTON assistant manager Alan Irvine believes tonight’s Carling Cup clash at Luton could spark a goal spree for striker Ayegbeni Yakubu.

Despite scoring on his debut against Bolton last month, the Blues’ record signing soon found himself left out of the starting line-up.

But the Nigeria international has battled his way back into the side and scored his second Premier League goal for the Blues in Sunday’s 2-0 win over Derby.

“He’s a fantastic finisher, one of the best I’ve had the pleasure of working with,” said Irvine.

“When he went through against Derby, I had no doubt he was going to score. He’s shown that in training a great deal.

“Hopefully that will provide the platform for him to go on one of those goal sprees that he’s had in the past.”

Yakubu is set to continue up front for the fourth-round tie at Kenilworth Road, although Irvine confirmed Everton are yet to decide on which system to play.

Goalscoring midfielder Tim Cahill could play behind Yakubu but Everton are keen not to overload the Australia international after returning from injury just last week against Larissa in the UEFA Cup.

“That’s something that we’ll take into consideration but you can look at it from the other point of view that it’s an opportunity for him to get another game under his belt,” said Irvine.

Everton are set to name a strong team but they are without the injured Leighton Baines.

Mikel Arteta is doubtful with a calf injury but James Vaughan, Phil Neville, Tim Cahill and Thomas Gravesen are all in contention.

Meanwhile Luton manager Kevin Blackwell believes his side have “nothing to lose”.

“I don’t see any reason why we shouldn’t think as big as everyone else. It’s going to be a tough challenge but we are looking forward to it.”