Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Thu 21 May 2026 17:10, UK

Everton have nothing to play for against Tottenham, or so it may seem on paper.

The Toffees’ European dream ended in limp fashion as the season began coming to a close, with David Moyes’ side failing to win any of their last six.

For most of the season, it had looked like Everton finishing in those coveted European places was a likely outcome.

However, heartbreak for supporters has ultimately arrived. It leaves Everton’s final game of this campaign with no jeopardy for the Blues.

Although, as Everton take on Tottenham, the L3 outfit may have a selfish reason to want to win and thus actually have something to play for.

Why Everton may want to push for Tottenham relegation

The goal for next season is clear: Everton must get into Europe. Failure this season must be used as a lesson, but with those lessons learnt, no excuses can be afforded next season.

Moyes will need a strong summer mandate from the ownership group, and the manager has a few kinks of his own to iron out as well.

This season’s collapse is not solely on the players, with the manager having to take some blame as well.

The best the Toffees can now do is end the season on 52 points and hand a final-day win to the travelling support.

For Everton, there is nothing on the line for this campaign, but Spurs are facing relegation. The only way the Lilywhites can go down is if they lose to Moyes’ outfit.

Everton may actually want to provide that heartbreak onto the North London side for entirely selfish reasons.

Ahead of next season, when it comes to West Ham and Tottenham, the latter are more likely to bounce back and return to fighting for European football.

Everton relegating Spurs may end up helping their chances at achieving their goals in 2026-2027, and that could be the motivation the Blues need to carve out a win this Sunday.

Are there other reasons for Everton to want Tottenham relegated?

Richarlison has been linked with a return to Everton over the past few months, and if the Brazilian is relegated with Tottenham, it could see a higher chance of that happening.

The striker is a much-loved figure in L3, and he would be welcomed back to Everton with open arms.

Moyes’ side are in need of a hard-working striker who can link up the play and provide goals as well.

Despite Spurs’ perilous position, the 29-year-old is having one of his better individual Premier League seasons with 11 goals and four assists.

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