Asmir Begovic has stressed the importance of Everton’s upcoming clash against Ipswich Town at Portman Road this Saturday, 19 October, labelling it a “massive” fixture.

The Toffees are just a point ahead of the Tractor Boys in the Premier League standings, with both clubs uncomfortably close to the relegation zone. Everton currently sit just two points clear of the drop.

Speaking on talkSPORT on 16 October, the veteran goalkeeper highlighted the significance of the encounter. “Tough game, massive game, every game in the Premier League is incredibly tough and I think the level has never been higher,” Begovic said.

He continued, “We go in there, we’ve been on a good run ourselves, three unbeaten and put in some good performances. We go there with a lot of optimism and hopefully, we can put in a good performance.”

It’s clear that Everton need a victory this weekend. Despite some solid individual displays from the likes of Dwight McNeil, the team as a whole has struggled to find consistent form. A sluggish start to the season has likely adjusted their expectations, with a top-half finish seeming increasingly difficult and confidence clearly wavering.

While summer signings such as Iliman Ndiaye and Tim Iroegbunam have made immediate impacts since arriving at Goodison Park, others are yet to establish themselves.

The fixture against Kieran McKenna’s Ipswich could well be a turning point. The timing couldn’t be better for Everton, as Ipswich come into the match on the back of a heavy defeat to West Ham United, conceding four goals in their final game before the international break.

With Ipswich’s confidence dented, this is a prime opportunity for Everton to capitalise, extend their unbeaten run, and show they are capable of overcoming a newly promoted side in what could be a crucial game in their season.