Chris Sutton has predicted that Ipswich Town will secure their first Premier League win of the season against Everton in their upcoming clash at Portman Road on Saturday.
Despite Everton’s recent good form, with a three-match unbeaten streak under manager Sean Dyche, Sutton believes Ipswich will come out on top. He shared his thoughts in his Premier League predictions for BBC Sport on October 17, admitting that he’s going against his instincts with this call.
“This one is very hard to call. Ipswich are still winless but, performance-wise, they might still be strangely happy because they have shown they can compete in the Premier League,” Sutton explained.
He acknowledged that Everton, though only a point ahead of Ipswich in the standings, have reasons to be positive after their recent results. “Everton have some reasons to be cheerful too. They are only a point and a place above Ipswich in the table but their results have picked up recently, and they are unbeaten in three league games now.”
However, Sutton ultimately opted to back Ipswich: “I have been scratching my head here about what to go for… and I am going to go against all my instincts and say Ipswich are going to get their first win of the season. Kieran McKenna’s side deserve a break, and maybe they will get it here. Prediction: 2-1.”
For Ipswich, their home performances have been solid, with draws against Fulham and Aston Villa, except for a 2-0 loss to Liverpool on the opening day. Everton, on the other hand, have struggled away from home, with a 1-1 draw against Leicester City being their only point on the road.
A win for Everton would be crucial, potentially giving them a five-point cushion above the relegation zone, provided other results go in their favor.
Sean Dyche is under increasing pressure at Everton, with speculation about potential replacements such as Jose Mourinho and David Moyes.
Although these rumors lack substance, Dyche’s long-term future is uncertain, and he needs a strong run of results to convince the club’s prospective owner, Dan Friedkin, that he is the right person to lead the team. The result of this match could have significant implications for both sides in the battle to avoid relegation.
