Everton and Tottenham Hotspur are set to lock horns in Saturday’s early Premier League kickoff at Goodison Park.
The Toffees will be desperate to climb out of the bottom three against a Spurs outfit eager to stay in the Champions League places.
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Everton slipped into the relegation zone after drawing with Fulham in midweek, while Tottenham beat Brentford to climb into the top four.
Chris Sutton, writing on BBC Sport, has previewed the game between the Toffees and Spurs, and reckons the two teams will play out a 2-2 draw.
The pundit says he has a “feeling” that Everton won’t lose, though at the same time he doesn’t think they’ll have what it takes to beat Tottenham.
Chris Sutton backs Everton to draw with Tottenham
Sutton suggested that Spurs’ “expansive style” could cost them against Everton, noting how the Toffees won 5-1 at Brighton – who play a similar style – last season.
“This is a tricky time for Everton, who have not won any of their past five league games and go to Manchester City next weekend,” wrote Sutton.
“They are back in the relegation zone and the goals have dried up as well – they have only scored twice in their past six games in all competitions.
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“It is worth remembering, though, that they were unlucky not to get anything from the reverse of this fixture just before Christmas, when Tottenham only just held on to win.
“Spurs are still missing Son Heung-min but they found a way to beat Brentford in midweek and I don’t think they will struggle to score here, either.
“Despite that, I just have a feeling that Everton won’t lose, even if I don’t quite see them getting the win they need so badly.
“Sean Dyche’s side got their best result of last season when they went to Brighton and won 5-1.
“Tottenham’s expansive style might give them more joy on the counter-attack here, even if I do think Spurs will create plenty of chances too.”
Everton can spring a surprise against Tottenham – TBR View
Although Spurs are favourites against Everton, I reckon the Toffees may just be able to spring a surprise.
Everton have had one more day’s rest than Spurs, and the visitors have also been a little more frail than usual at the back.
Add to that the fact that Sean Dyche knows how to shut out expansive teams and I reckon Everton may just do enough to nick a win.
I’ll go with a 2-1 home victory. After all, early Saturday kickoffs have had their fair share of shock results over the years.
