As Ipswich Town prepares to host Everton in the Premier League this Saturday, both teams are eager to distance themselves from the relegation zone.
Ipswich, 17th on the table, has managed four draws this season but is still searching for their first win. Meanwhile, Everton, just one point ahead in 16th, has improved slightly with two draws and a win in recent outings.
Pundits Alan Shearer and Chris Sutton, known for their weekly predictions, hold differing opinions on how the game will unfold. Writing for Metro, Shearer tipped Everton for an away win, citing their strength in set pieces as a potential game-changer.
“This is already a huge game for both clubs in terms of where they will want to be at the end of the season,” the former Newcastle striker said. “Both managers will see this as a real opportunity to get points. I don’t expect many goals, but I think Everton’s threat from set pieces will make the difference.”
In contrast, Sutton expressed confidence in Ipswich finally securing their first victory, predicting a 2-1 win in his BBC Sport column.
“This one is very hard to call,” Sutton admitted. “Ipswich are still winless, but they’ve shown they can compete in the Premier League. Everton also has reasons to be optimistic with their recent unbeaten run, but I believe Kieran McKenna’s side deserves a break, and maybe they’ll get it here.”
The match could also be influenced by several key injuries. Ipswich will be without Axel Tuanzebe, while Everton’s James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam are also sidelined. However, both teams could see returns, with Vitalii Mykolenko and Seamus Coleman available for Everton.
The game promises to be a pivotal encounter, with both teams aiming for crucial points to escape the lower end of the table.
