Fulham’s relegation from the Premier League has been confirmed and Scott Parker’s side have only pride to play for in the remaining weeks of the season.
After over a week off, the Cottagers return to action this weekend with another stern test against an Everton outfit who have been rejuvenated in recent weeks after securing consecutive wins against Chelsea, West Ham and Arsenal.
The Toffees head to west London chasing their fourth win in a row against London opposition and a trio of respected pundits all agree that Parker’s side have little chance against their Merseyside counterparts, as all three expect Everton to win comfortably.
You can see what they had to say below.
Michael Owen (Everton win, Betvictor )
Relegated Fulham have conceded at least twice in their last 13 league games and the only criticism you could throw at Everton in recent weeks – certainly their wins against West Ham and Arsenal – is that they have not been as clinical in front of goal as their general play has warranted.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin continues to go from strength to strength for the Blues who I feel will have too much for the Cottagers and gain a fourth successive league win – all against sides from the capital.
Mark Lawrenson (2-0 Everton, BBC )
Everton are playing well, and winning. When they are at their best, especially at Goodison Park, they make life difficult for the opposition by playing at a really high tempo and they should look to repeat that at Craven Cottage.
In contrast, Fulham have lost their past nine league matches. They are down already and face a big three months while they decide whether Scott Parker stays on as manager and which players stay or go.
The six key Fulham players likely to leave the club following relegation
Paul Merson (3-0 Everton, Sky Sports )
Fulham are playing for pride, but they're not good enough. At the end of the day, you've just got to look at them and say they aren't good enough. They let in virtually two goals every game, and I can't see anything but an Everton win.
Everton are playing very well at the moment, or at least in the last two-and-a-half games. They had the second half against Chelsea, then the West Ham game and then beat Arsenal.
I fancy them to win again, very comfortably
You've seen what the pundits have had to say, now it's time to make your predictions!
This week's Footie5 matches: Brighton v Bournemouth, Burnley v Cardiff, Fulham v Everton, Southampton v Wolves, Sheffield United v Millwall
Former Fulham striker pinpoints two players who could be key to bouncing back next season
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