Beattie starts for Everton

Everton boss David Moyes sprung a surprise by including record signing James Beattie in the starting line-up for the first time since the striker’s red card against Chelsea on February 12.

The Toffees also welcomed back Alessandro Pistone following a hamstring injury while Leon Osman returned after being rested for the victory over Manchester United on Wednesday.

Moyes reverted to his trusted 4-5-1 formation with both Marcus Bent and Duncan Ferguson rested on the substitutes bench.

Everton need this victory to ensure UEFA Cup qualification against a Birmingham side who have gone four games without a victory and it is 38 years since they won at Goodison Park.

Stan Lazaridis came into the side in place of the injured Jamie Clapham. Midfield duo Damien Johnson and Mehdi Nafti returned to the side.