This article is part of Football FanCast’s The Chalkboard series, which provides a tactical insight into teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Everton's Mason Holgate could be set for a stern test this weekend as he faces off with Teemu Pukki when Norwich City come to town.

On the chalkboard

Holgate has been in spectacular form since he came into the side for the injured Yerry Mina. The Englishman has managed to rack up two assists, a goal and a clean sheet, while he also helped Everton progress into the quarter-final of the EFL Cup.

However, with Pukki scoring for Finland against Greece and twice against Liechtenstein while also bagging an assist for the third goal in that game, the Canaries star could be set to get back into his deadly form. Earlier on in the Premier League campaign, Pukki led the way as an early Golden Boot contender, bagging six goals.

No Pukki, no party

Everton's defence has been suspect all season, as the club have now conceded 18 goals in 12 games. Now, should the Norwich striker bring his a-game to Merseyside, the likes of Mina and Holgate at the back could be in big trouble.

Individual clashes against strikers of Pukki's potency will enable Holgate to craft his game and reach the next level with Everton.

The game is a must-win for the Toffees and a win could boost them up the table. Plus, as Pukki seems to back into the swing of things, the Finland international will surely be ready to pounce on what has been a shaky defence under Marco Silva this season.

This game could be crucial for Holgate as he aims to cement his place in the starting XI, while it's clearly a must-win for the club given the run of fixtures that beckons in December.

The centre-back will be one of Everton's most important players on the pitch and he can help keep them from edging further to the relegation zone.