Spurs to cash in against favourite opponents
With West Ham United’s slump in form, it seemed inconceivable that Tottenham’s Premier League status would still not be secured heading into the final day.
A 2-1 win at Aston Villa three weeks ago lifted them out of the relegation zone, but they have failed to kick clear. Their twin nemeses – their home form and having to visit Chelsea – mean there’s still a possibility they could drop out of the top flight for the first time in almost half a century.
The stakes remain the same for the visit of Everton as they were before the 2-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge on Monday. Barring an almost impossible goal difference swing, Roberto De Zerbi’s side need only a point to relegate the Hammers.
Tottenham’s home discomfort is well documented by now. Spurs fans have seen their team win only two league games at their swanky stadium all season, one of which was Burnley on the opening day. But if any team were to provide the medicine to cure their ills at this ground, it’s Everton.
The Toffees have won just two league games against Tottenham since 2012. One of those was a visit here during the Covid-19 affected season, so no Everton fans have been present at a victory on Spurs territory since 2008. They have lost on their past four visits here by an aggregate score of 13-1.
It will help Spurs that David Moyes’ side are on a six-game winless run and have slid from eighth to 12th and out of European contention. Everton have conceded at least twice in six of their past seven games.
Former Gwladys Street hero Richarlison has been haunting his old club since moving to north London, striking four times and adding an assist in five appearances. The Brazilian is likely to lead the line again and has three goal contributions in four matches.
Everton have both nothing to play for and an abysmal record against Spurs, who are fighting for their lives. Clearly, this should be the day that the home side’s 10-match winless streak at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium ends.
The visitors’ defensive problems are clear for all to see and Spurs can take advantage of that, having scored in their past five games under De Zerbi. I’m backing them to win by at least two goals at 12/5.