Everton host Burnley today, with Sean Dyche’s side still searching for their first win of 2024.
The Toffees secured a point against Newcastle United on Tuesday thanks to Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s penalty.
There were certainly positives to take from the trip to St James’ Park after the players rallied in the second half.
The challenge is to turn positive performances into wins, which must start against Vincent Kompany’s side today.
BBC Sport pundit Chris Sutton has since shared his thoughts on who will win at Goodison Park.
What has Chris Sutton said about Everton v Burnley?
Sutton has suggested that the atmosphere could turn sour if things don’t go to plan in the early stages.
He explained: “Tuesday’s draw with Newcastle goes down as a point gained for Everton but that doesn’t change the fact that Burnley were the last team they beat in the league, at Turf Moor on 16 December.
“Sean Dyche did a job on his old team in that game, but his side did not win any of the 13 league games that have followed and they are under real pressure to put that right here.
“The Goodison Park atmosphere has been so important to Everton in the past, but I can see the crowd getting really anxious if they fall a goal behind or things don’t go to plan.”
Despite his concerns, the former Celtic striker does feel Everton will end their long wait for a win.
“It’s a huge game for Burnley too, of course. Fair play to the Clarets, whose run of four games unbeaten has given them a chance of avoiding relegation, but if they are going to stay up, then they really have to win this game,” he added.
“It’s Everton who I think will take the points, though. I can’t back them going off recent form but they are a well-balanced side who usually create a few chances. This time, that might be enough. 2-0”
Who will start for Everton against Burnley today?
With slight doubts over Amadou Onana’s fitness, Dyche could hand Andre Gomes his first Premier League start of 2024. The £22m signing impressed against Newcastle and would allow Abdoulaye Dourcoure some much-needed rest.
Failure to win will see the pressure significantly mount on the Everton boss. During the winless run, murmurs of his facing the sack have been subdued.
If the Toffees can’t overcome one of the league’s weaker sides at home, serious questions will be asked of the board. A radical decision may be required to prevent Everton from slipping into the Championship, which is an unthinkable scenario.