Chelsea head to Goodison Park on Sunday looking to extend their impressive eight-game winning streak across all competitions. This run, which includes five consecutive Premier League victories, has propelled the Blues to second place in the table, just two points behind Liverpool.

However, Everton, sitting 16th in the league, are expected to pose a tough challenge. The Toffees have recorded six clean sheets this season—second only to Liverpool’s seven. Four of these shutouts have come in their last five matches, including a gritty 0-0 draw at Arsenal.

Sean Dyche’s side is unbeaten in their last five games at Goodison Park, conceding just twice during that period. While they’ve only scored seven goals in this run, their defensive solidity has made them hard to beat.

In his predictions column for BBC Sport, Chris Sutton backed Chelsea to claim a narrow 2-1 victory but praised Everton’s resilience under Dyche.

“The takeover at Everton has gone through now, so there will probably be some speculation about Sean Dyche’s future, but they would get rid of him now at their peril,” Sutton wrote. “Basically, if they want to stay in the Premier League this season, then they have to keep him as manager.

“Dyche’s Everton side are not tearing up any trees, but they showed in the draw at Arsenal how resolute they are—they are awkward and difficult to break down.”

Despite Everton’s defensive capabilities, Sutton believes Chelsea’s form will see them through. “Even so, you can’t back against Chelsea right now, with the confidence they are playing with and the winning run they are on.

“I’ve gone for three away wins already this week, which is a bit risky, but this has to be number four,” Sutton concluded.

With Chelsea in high spirits and Everton determined to defend their home turf, Sunday’s clash promises to be a compelling encounter.