Paul Merson makes Everton prediction based on Goodison Park, admits he used to ‘dread’ it
Paul Merson predicts Everton to be able to “wipe the floor” with weaker sides if Goodison Park replicates the intensity shown against Chelsea.
Thomas Tuchel’s side were made to feel distinctly unwelcome on Merseyside at the weekend and went down 1-0 to a combative Toffees side on Sunday (1 May).
The fans made the west-Londoners’ stay at the hotel uncomfortable, the arrival at the ground intimidating, and the atmosphere inside during the game drove the players on, which Merson recognised from his playing days for the effect it can have when visiting Goodison.
In his Daily Star column he said: “Everton were done if they didn’t win that game but now they have dragged Leeds right back into it.
“Credit to Frank Lampard because he does go for it. It was 100 miles per hour with the crowd up for it, lifting the players.
“I used to dread playing at Goodison Park. You knew it would be hostile and they would get in your faces. I haven’t seen it like that for a long time.
“If they bring the same intensity for the rest of the season they will wipe the floor with lesser teams. But they do give up chances so Jordan Pickford’s form could be crucial.”
Lion’s den
The home faithful have been keeping this team alive all season, and it looks like the team is finally starting to match the intensity.
Frank Lampard’s tactical change has brought about a new attitude from the players which should make them an unattractive proposition for anyone to face.
With so few games left and the margin for error down to almost nothing there is no chance of a let up.
Crystal Palace and Brentford are the final remaining visitors to Goodison, and faced with a similar reception as Chelsea they have to be ripe for six points.
The nine on offer from trips to Leicester, Watford and Arsenal are a bigger concern in light of the away form this year.
But the performance at Anfield (24 April), despite the controversy and the result, suggests there might be a new backbone to this team where before the slightest set back would preface a collapse.
In other Everton news, one pundit was pumped up by the new “aggressive” Toffees side and said it’s “about time” they got the backing of the referee.
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