Manager
Some encouraging signs now after a frustrating start and a disastrous FA Cup defeat to Cambridge United. No frantic great escapes during his time at Bournemouth, more sensible planning disaster-prevention. One relegation, though.
Prediction
Safe, but need points in next two months, have a fearsome end to season.
Norwich City
Firepower
The league’s lowest scorers, persisting with idea that Teemu Pukki is a viable top-level goalscorer despite a season and a half’s evidence to the contrary. Five goals for the Finn is not terrible, the real problem is help from elsewhere. Only Josh Sargent has more than two.
Mentality
Rallying now they are unexpectedly out of the bottom three, largely thanks to having played more games than the other relegation candidates. That glimpse of safety may help as squad’s previous relegation “fight” was pretty tame.
Squad strength
Their 45 goals conceded does not bode well, nor does implosion of once-promising Todd Cantwell, now loaned out to Bournemouth. Looks like a strong Championship group.
Manager
Dean Smith is possibly their greatest asset. A 3-0 win at Watford felt like a statement and there is a sense he can recapture his status as one of the country’s brightest managers after leaving Villa. He could be the difference.
Prediction
Relegated. In a good spell but their goal numbers, both real and expected, are dreadful.
Everton
Firepower
Dominic Calvert-Lewin may be the best striker available to any club on this list and Richarlison shows flashes of brilliance. Demarai Gray and Andros Townsend should provide ample supply.
Mentality
Never get relegated, which is either motivational or a route to complacency. Certainly under-achieving as it stands so plenty of room for improvement but such funks can be tough to shake. A rejuvenated Goodison Park can help.
Squad strength
A messy squad which betrays the managerial turnover but bordering on “too good to go down”. Plenty of quality in theory and Dele Alli is an intriguing addition. They must address defensive frailties, perhaps Ashley Cole will help?
