Securing European football for next season now looks like a long shot for both Everton and Sunderland but a victory for either side in this Premier League clash could keep their hopes alive.
With just two games to go, the Toffees trail seventh-placed Brighton by four points, while the Black Cats are a further point off the pace.
They've both hit a slump at the wrong time, with David Moyes' men going five games without a win and Sunderland failing to taste victory in their last four.
Most of those matches have been stalemates, though, and they both claimed a point in their last round of fixtures, with Everton drawing 2-2 at Crystal Palace and Sunderland holding Manchester United in a 0-0 snorefest.
I backed the Black Cats in the double chance against United and they had the better opportunities, while Moyes will be frustrated the Toffees twice threw away the lead at Selhurst Park.
Another share of the spoils would do neither side any favour so this should be an open game as they both go for the victory that could set up a final-day crack at Europe.
How the bookies view it: Home comfort for Everton
Despite their poor recent run of results, Everton are odds on for this one with home advantage at a best 4/5 with Ladbrokes. Sunderland are 7/2 with most firms while yet another draw pays 11/4 at Bet365.
Recent head to head: Daggers drawn
These sides have already faced off twice in the Premier League and FA Cup this season, with both matches ending in 1-1 draws. Sunderland progressed on penalties in that cup tie on Merseyside but haven't beaten the Toffees in normal time in any of the last five meetings.
Players to watch: Ndiaye a free spirit
Iliman Ndiaye always brings a touch of creativity to Everton's attack but has gone five games without a goal. He's 5/2 at BetMGM to end that drought while backing him to score or assist is safer at 21/20 with Bet365.
Brian Brobbey is also having a tough time in front of goal for Sunderland, with the Dutchman going seven games without scoring. He's a menace to defenders with his hold-up play though and is a bit overpriced at 2/1 with Bet365 to score or assist.
Backed a player to find the net? Check our Goalscorer Betting guide to see how the markets work and where to find value.
Probable line-ups
Sunderland stopper Dan Ballard is still suspended while forward Romaine Mundle is doubtful with a knock.
Everton remain without long-term absentee Jack Grealish, while Jarrad Branthwaite and Idrissa Gueye are set to miss out again too.
Everton: Pickford, O'Brien, Tarkowski, Keane, Mykolenko, Garner, Iroegbunam, McNeil, Dewsbury-Hall, Ndiaye, Beto.
Sunderland: Roefs, Reinildo, Geertruda, Alderete, Mukiele, Sadiki, Xhaka, Le Fee, Talbi, Rigg, Brobbey.
Anything else catch the eye?
Both meetings so far this season have been tight so this should be another close game and the half-time draw appeals at 5/4 with Coral.
Another feature of those clashes was the lack of corners, with an average of just 4.5. That makes under 9.5 corners a decent option here at 6/5 with Betway.
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