Mark Lawrenson predicts Everton v Southampton clash
Mark Lawrenson has backed the Rafa Benitez era to get off to the perfect start on Saturday when Everton host Southampton at Goodison Park.
Sharing his thoughts via the BBC Sport website, the ex-Liverpool defender has predicted Everton to win 1-0 against the south-coast side.
He said: “This is a big game for Everton because it’s Rafa’s first as manager, and the crowds are back which should help.
“There are going to be people there who don’t want him in charge but he is a very good manager, and I’m expecting him to start the season with a win.”
Frosty reception?
It will be interesting to see how Everton fans receive Benitez on Saturday as he takes charge of his first match at Goodison Park as Blues boss.
Of course, the Spaniard has plenty of experience at the ground, but his previous outings there have mainly been with Merseyside rivals Liverpool.
His appointment as Carlo Ancelotti’s successor earlier this summer drew fury from a large section of the Blues fanbase who were enraged that someone who apparently held such disdain for them as a Red, was prepared to switch allegiances and manage Everton.
The anger has subsided somewhat with most supporters willing to get behind the team, but Saturday’s 4-0 humbling at the hands of Manchester United has not helped matters.
Now, all pressure will be on Benitez and his side to pick up three points against Southampton.
Whether that will earn him praise from supporters so soon not his reign, we’re not quite sure.
But a defeat on Saturday could create tension at Goodison.
n other Everton news, an English midfielder has held Blues transfer talks amid Benitez contact.
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