David Moyes will be hoping to see a much better performance from his Everton side against Brighton this Sunday.
It’s an exciting matchday for the Toffees as their fresh era in a new home officially begins in the Premier League.
Anticipation is building as Everton have a surprise tifo planned to welcome the Hill Dickinson Stadium in style.
The Seagulls will be a tough test, but Fabian Hurzeler is wary about Jack Grealish, as the 29-year-old could make his first start.
Everton need a response, and pundit Chris Sutton has given a very honest prediction ahead of the encounter.
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Chris Sutton predicts Brighton to ruin Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium debut with a win
Moyes will be planning for an Everton resurgence after a dismal display at Elland Road against Leeds United.
Although a dodgy penalty separated the two teams, which Moyes has been told was the ‘wrong decision’, the Blues didn’t deserve three points.
What better way to respond to that than with a win on the Hill Dickinson’s opener, but Sutton doesn’t see it that way.
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Speaking to BBC Sport, the former Premier League striker said: “I’ve said this on many occasions. Everton overachieved last season. It’s painted a false picture as to where they currently are.
“They didn’t offer a lot the other night against Leeds. Sorry Everton fans but I’ve just got a feeling Brighton will play party poopers in the first Premier League game at Everton’s new stadium. 1-2.”
It’s a harsh verdict from Sutton, who clearly isn’t convinced by Everton, but after their transfer window, you have to scratch your head as to why.
Tyler Dibling* £42 million
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall £28 million
Thierno Barry £27 million
Carlos Alcaraz £12.6 million
Adam Aznou £7.8 million
Mark Travers £4 million
Jack Grealish Loan
Tom King Undisclosed
Everton’s eight summer signings in 2025/26 summer window – *Subject to confirmation
Of course, the Toffees will be down to the bare minimum after injuries, but the atmosphere will play a big role; however, Everton know welcoming Brighton has not been an easy task.
Everton have the chance to end poor home form vs Brighton at the Hill Dickinson
Goodison Park wasn’t the best venue for playing the Seagulls.
Although the Toffees got off to a good start when Brighton entered the Premier League, the Blues haven’t won at home against the East Sussex side in the last four meetings.
2021/22 Everton 2-3 Brighton
2022/23 Everton 1-4 Brighton
2023/24 Everton 1-1 Brighton
2024/25 Everton 0-3 Brighton
Everton’s last four games against Brighton at home in the Premier League
Hopefully, the Hill Dickinson treats the Toffees better, as it has been a torrid time playing the Seagulls in recent times.
Of course, Moyes got a 1-0 win against them last season, and with Hurzeler highlighting Everton’s energy, the new ground could play a big role.