Everton run-in plotted as verdict given on biggest match and rearranged fixtures

As the Premier League returns this weekend Everton fans will resume the practice of not just following the Blues’ fixtures but also keeping an eye on surrounding teams.

Rarely has each weekend been filled with such tension but the reality of this run-in is the performances of rivals will have a major impact. With 11 games to play - almost one third of a season - the good news is Everton control their own destiny.

Three games in hand over Leeds and Brentford mean both clubs remain within sight despite crucial wins in recent gameweeks.

Alex Iwobi’s dramatic stoppage time winner against Newcastle also created some breathing space to those in the bottom three though Burnley, like Everton, have played just 27 games.

With one of the most important periods of Everton’s Premier League history beginning at West Ham United on Sunday, this is how the run-in currently looks not just for the Toffees, but for those also in the survival battle.

All eyes on the 3pm Saturday matches but little danger of falling into the bottom three

Everton will know precisely where they stand by kick-off at West Ham on Sunday afternoon.

Watford travel to Anfield for the Saturday lunch-time match. A win for the Hornets would place them level with Everton. The only situation in which Everton end up in the relegation zone after this weekend is if the Hornets not only pick up a surprise win over Liverpool, but if Everton also lose and give up the eight goal advantage they have in goal difference.

Norwich, rock bottom and eight points from safety, travel to face a Brighton side that has lost five games in a row. With Burnley hosting Man City and Brentford travelling to Chelsea, any positive result against David Moyes’ Hammers could make the table look