Everton – Sunderland

Everton host Sunderland in what promises to be a tightly contested league fixture, with the Toffees sitting eighth on six points after one win and three draws, boasting a modest +2 goal difference from five goals scored and three conceded. Sunderland sit just below the midway line in 14th place, holding four points from one victory, one draw and two defeats, and they trail Everton with a –2 goal difference, having netted three and let in five. Both sides will be eager to improve their positions, Everton looking to climb back into the top half while Sunderland aim to pull away from the relegation‑threatening cluster. The clash could prove decisive for the mid‑table scramble, especially as each side’s recent form suggests a battle of resilience over outright firepower.