Everton take on Nottingham Forest at the City Ground this evening in what will be the final clash of 2026.
After Everton’s disappointing draw against Burnley, David Moyes will be desperate to end the year in the win column.
Are Everton going to get back to winning ways vs Forest? 🫣
Let us know your score predictions in the comments!
The Toffees beat Nottingham Forest 3-0 in the reverse fixture, with Thierno Barry netting his first and only goal that day.
So, Moyes’ side have good reason to be confident, especially considering Forest have lost three of their last four Premier League games.
With that said, Paul Merson has now given his prediction for the game.

Paul Merson predicts Everton to lose vs Nottingham Forest
Writing in his Sportskeeda column, former Arsenal playmaker Paul Merson reckons the absences of Jack Grealish, Iliman Ndiaye and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall will really affect Everton.
“With Iliman Ndiaye away on AFCON duty, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall injured and Jack Grealish unwell, I expect Everton to struggle,” Merson admitted.
If you were David Moyes, who are you starting against Nottingham Forest? 🫣
“If those three don’t play, Everton become toothless in attack. Everton have failed to score in the last three games as well.
“I’m backing Forest to get a huge three points that will open up some breathing space between them and West Ham.”
Merson predicts: Nottingham Forest 1-0 Everton
Everton’s recent record vs Nottingham Forest
Everton’s last five meetings against Nottingham Forest make for very good reading, and Moyes will certainly draw some belief from it.
The Toffees have won four of their last five games against the East Midlanders, with two of those coming at the City Ground.
| 02 Dec 2023 | Nottingham Forest 0-1 Everton |
| 21 Apr 2024 | Everton 2-0 Nottingham Forest |
| 29 Dec 2024 | Everton 0-2 Nottingham Forest |
| 12 Apr 2025 | Nottingham Forest 0-1 Everton |
| 06 Dec 2025 | Everton 3-0 Nottingham Forest |
If Everton were to pick up another win tonight, they’d more than likely move back into the top half of the table and within touching distance of the European spots.
So, there is a lot riding on the clash, especially heading into the January transfer window. They’ll want to be in a good position so that they’re a more attractive destination.
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