Everton and Sunderland meet at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday with both clubs still holding slim hopes of sneaking into the European places ahead of the final weeks of the Premier League season.
Only one point separates the two sides in mid-table, though Everton’s recent form has significantly damaged their chances of finishing in the top seven. David Moyes’s men are currently enduring a five-match winless streak, their longest run without victory this campaign, despite continuing to produce entertaining encounters filled with goals.
Last weekend’s dramatic 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace perfectly reflected Everton’s recent struggles. The Toffees twice took the lead at Selhurst Park, only to be pegged back on both occasions, with Jean-Philippe Mateta rescuing a point for the Eagles late on.
Matches involving Everton have become increasingly chaotic in recent weeks, with at least three goals scored in each of their last six league games. Defensive problems remain a major concern for Moyes, whose side have conceded at least twice in all five matches during their current winless run.
Sunderland, meanwhile, arrive at the Hill Dickinson Stadium with one of the league’s strongest defensive records. Régis Le Bris’s side kept their 11th clean sheet of the season during a disciplined 0-0 draw against Manchester United last time out.
The Sunderland manager recently acknowledged Everton’s dangerous transitional play and Moyes’s tactical experience while previewing the fixture on the club’s official social media channel.
They shared:
RLB on Everton: This will be a tough game. They have an experienced manager. They carry threats in the transitions. We’re prepared and looking forward to the weekend…
With both teams still mathematically in the race for Europe and Everton preparing for the final home game of their first season at the new stadium, Sunday’s contest promises to be highly competitive.
Team News
Everton remain without Idrissa Gueye due to injury, while Jack Grealish and Jarrad Branthwaite are also sidelined. Beto enters the contest in excellent form after scoring five goals in his last five Premier League appearances.
Club captain Seamus Coleman is preparing for his final home appearance after 17 years at Everton, although he is unlikely to start.
Sunderland will be without suspended defender Daniel Ballard following his unsuccessful appeal after a red card against Wolves. Romaine Mundle also remains unavailable because of a thigh injury.
Bertrand Traore has recovered from a knee issue, while Nilson Angulo and Jocelin Ta Bi recently returned to the matchday squad.
Possible Lineups
Everton possible starting lineup:
Pickford; O’Brien, Keane, Tarkowski, Mykolenko; Garner, Iroegbunam; Rohl, Dewsbury-Ball, Ndiaye; Beto
Sunderland possible starting lineup:
Roefs; Geertruida, Mukiele, Alderete, Reinildo; Xhaka, Sadiki; Hume, Le Fee, Talbi; Brobbey
How to Watch
| Channel | Region | Kickoff Time |
|---|---|---|
| Skysports Premier League | United Kingdom | 15:00 BST |
| SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport GOtv | Nigeria Africa | 15:00 WAT |
| Peacock | USA | 10:00 ET |
Match Prediction
Softfootball predicts an entertaining 2-2 draw.
Everton’s attacking momentum should create chances, but Sunderland’s defensive structure could frustrate the hosts.
