Gary Neville drops Everton and Brighton backing in hours before Manchester City and Arsenal clashes in ‘a bit in them’ verdict
Gary Neville has backed Everton and Brighton to frustrate title-chasers Manchester City and Arsenal as both games “have a bit in them”.
Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions head to Goodison Park in the early afternoon kick off on Sunday (14 May) before the Seagulls head to the Emirates later in the day.
And while the Sky Sports pundit has admitted it is “doubtful” he has suggested both games could end in a draw as the season ticks towards a conclusion.
Responding to a question on Twitter on match day morning Neville said: “Everton and Brighton to grab a point each? Doubtful but these two matches have a bit in them! Not easy for City and Arsenal.”
Cat among the pigeons
Brighton have spent most of the season proving they can come up with a result against pretty much anyone in the Premier League, and then Sean Dyche took his Toffees side to the Amex last week and thrashed them 5-1 (8 May).
That will give him and his players a huge shot of belief for the visit of the side looking to defend their title, with the boost of the Goodison Park fans behind them.
It is a huge day at both ends of the table, with Everton just outside the relegation zone by one place and one point after Leeds United drew with Newcastle a day earlier.
One of the former Burnley boss’ 1-0 home wins would be ideal in this situation, and would surely make his side as good as safe with just two games to go.
He already upset the Gunners by that scoreline when they came to Merseyside for his first game in charge (4 February) after replacing Frank Lampard, so doing the same to their rivals at the top of the table is not impossible.
The huge win a week ago has put all results on the table and it is key that the performances builds on Monday’s achievements.