Everton return to Premier League action this afternoon when they welcome Wolverhampton Wanderers to Goodison Park.
Rock bottom Wolves are four points behind 17th-placed Everton and travel to Goodison Park under the stewardship of Julen Lopetegui. The former Real Madrid coach replaced Bruno Lage at Molineux last month.
Lopetegui won his first game against League Two side Gillingham on Tuesday night, but despite the victory, both Chris Sutton and Patrice Evra believe Frank Lampard’s side will come out on top at Goodison.
READ MORE: Kevin Thelwell has a 120-point plan to rejuvenate Everton
READ MORE: Everton have made a significant transfer decision after World Cup watching brief
“This is a massive game for both teams, but it actually feels bigger for Everton,” Sutton, who believes Everton will win 1-0, told BBC Sport.
“It's a chance for new Wolves boss Julen Lopetegui to get to work properly, in what will be his first game in charge of the Premier League's bottom side since he was appointed more than a month ago.
“Lopetegui has lots to do, including getting Wolves to score some goals, but he is making a fresh start, while Everton were sinking fast before the season paused for the World Cup.
“Frank Lampard's side have lost six of their past eight games in all competitions and could not have signed off on much more of low than being spanked twice in a row by Bournemouth, in the Carabao Cup and then the league.
“Wolves are in a relegation battle, but so are Everton and a win here is absolutely crucial for them with Manchester City up next, at Etihad Stadium on New Year's Eve.
“Everton have to win, and I think they will win. I was at Goodison Park last season when their fans made a huge difference for them in games like this, and they will help them again here.”
While Evra, who also believes Everton will win 1-0, told Betfair : "This is a massive game. For both teams, they will want to end the year on a high and start 2023 with more hope. I think this game is one for hope. It's going to be tough.
"Lampard is under pressure, if they don't win I think he could get sacked. If you're an owner, you will be influenced by wanting to start a fresh in the new year, that could be a mistake. Frank will have had time to reflect and prepare his team and I will go for them in this one."
READ NEXT
