Fans of both sides will be hoping that this is not a relegation six pointer come the end of May 2025. It has been a mixed start for both, with just 1 win between them, combined with some strong performances in defeat.
There is a strong argument that the outcome of this game is defined by injuries and player availability – if Everton have both Jarrad Branthwaite and Iliman Ndiaye fit and starting, they *should* have more than enough quality to defeat Ipswich. And this is not a biased statement, not a deliberately biased statement anyway, as Jarrad Branthwaite has repeatedly proved he can win football matches all by himself, he did it 13 times in the Premier League last season. This season, without him, the experienced and reliable James Tarkowski has struggled without the comfort of his partner. So, not only is Branthwaite, calm, assured and always makes the right decision mid-game, he brings out the best in those around him. I say this with upmost respect, but it almost cannot be put into words, how much of an upgrade he is over Michael Keane.
However, Everton are without a consistently fit senior right back; it remains to be seen if Nathan Patterson is available – the only one who could be. Either way, he severely lacks match fitness – Ipswich’s lethal left flank of Leif Davis and Jack Clarke would threaten most of the defences in this league. Davis in particular, must not be underestimated, he can assist, create a big chance out of thin air. We just haven’t seen enough of it yet this season as Ipswich adjust to life in the top flight.
Despite being the away team, Everton should be favourites here, against winless Ipswich. But it is certainly not a guarantee…