‘Return of Aguero could spell trouble’ – Owen predicts Everton to come up short v Man City
Michael Owen believes Everton have the firepower to trouble Manchester City’s strong defence but predicts the return of Sergio Aguero will prove too much for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
Everton go into tonight’s (December 28) contest four places and three points better off than their visitors, albeit having played a game more.
The Toffees are also top of the Premier League form books, having accrued 13 points from a possible 15 in their last five games, while City have remained unbeaten in that period, collecting 11 points.
In his BetVictor column, former Red Owen offered his prediction on the Goodison Park clash, and made reference to Aguero, who has not started for City since October 24, “Everton’s recent upturn in form has given Toffees fans renewed hope that they could land one of the European places come the end of the season.
“There’s a new solidity about Manchester City. They are putting together an excellent run and are keeping goals out at the other end. However, I do feel that Everton have enough to get on the score sheet here.
“That said, City’s firepower is there for everyone to see, and the return of Sergio Aguero could spell trouble for the home side.”
Everton’s recent record against Manchester City makes for ominous viewing for supporters of the Toffees.
Pep Guardiola’s outfit have won the last five games between the sides, with Everton last sharing the spoils in a 1-1 draw in August 2017, when a late Raheem Sterling goal cancelled out Wayne Rooney’s opener.
If the recent defensive records of the two sides are taken into account then the fixture at Goodison Park will not be illuminated by goals.
Between them, Everton and Manchester City have conceded only three goals in 10 Premier League games (Everton – 2, Manchester City – 1).
The teams have not exactly been piling them in at the other end, as Manchester City (21) are the only team to score fewer than Everton’s 26 goals in the current top six.
In what looks set to be a close encounter, Everton fans will be hopeful their side can continue the momentum they have built up recently, and head into the New Year in a positive shape, as they bid to secure a European place at the end of the season.
In other Everton news, Ancelotti rules out Premier League title chances.