Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Wed 20 May 2026 7:40, UK

David Moyes will be aware that Everton‘s European chances are as good as dead, but there is still a monetary incentive there to play for.

The Toffee head into the final encounter of the season winless in their last six, which is the sole reason behind their failure to get European football.

While it is still technically possible, it would require several results to go in Everton’s favour on the final day, as well as a signficant goal difference swing for them to move above Brentford in eighth.

Nevertheless, there is still something riding on that encounter with Tottenham next Sunday, which many fans are often unaware of.

But for Moyes, it could provide him with a team selection dilemma ahead of Everton’s trip to Tottenham.

Premier League prize money will have Everton chasing win

European football is where the big money is, but there remains a heavy incentive for teams to finish the season strongly even if they aren’t in contention.

That is because each position in the Premier League is worth around £2.6million, based on previous campaigns.

Everton cannot finish any lower than 14th this season, but, technically, can still finish as high as eighth.

If the latter were to happen, as unlikely as it is, it would see the Toffees bank an additional £34.5m in merit payments, compared to the £18.6m they would receive if they were to finish 14th.

It’s a difference of around £15.9m, which is not something to turn your nose up at.

Moyes must get Toffees back to winning ways

With Europe basically out of sight, Moyes could easily be tempted to throw some youngsters into the equation to get a look at them ahead of pre-season.

If he did, very few would throw their arms up about it.

However, that would then reduce their chances of victory, which could see them miss out on that additional £15.9m.

It’s a dilemma to contend with ahead of their trip to North London.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.