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Paul Merson predicts result of Everton Premier League final-day clash v Bournemouth
Paul Merson has predicted the result of the final-day Premier League clash between Everton and Bournemouth at Goodison Park on Sunday.
Sean Dyche’s side know a win will be enough to secure their Premier League survival and relegate Leeds and Leicester in the process.
Merson has backed the Toffees to get the job done on Sunday afternoon and ensure their top-flight status.
“Leicester City’s 1-1 draw against Newcastle United the other day could be a priceless result for them, as it puts a lot of pressure on Everton.
“It’s going to be a lot harder now for the Toffees and their misery could get compounded if Leicester score an early goal against West Ham, who could rest a bunch of key players with one eye on the UEFA Conference League final against Fiorentina,” wrote Merson (Sportskeeda predictions, 25 May).
“That said, I don’t see Bournemouth turning up, as they don’t have much to play for. Everton, on the other hand, are heading into one of their most important games in Premier League history, so I fancy them to step up and get the job done to avoid relegation. Everton 2-0 Bournemouth.”
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Do or die
It’s now a do-or-die situation for Dyche’s men. Their fate is in their hands. The players must ensure they are concentrating on the task at hand and not on results elsewhere. Everton know a win will do and that has to be the aim. Bournemouth won’t down tools at Goodison Park.
A narrative of teams giving up often gets spun, but it’s certainly not the case. There’s always something on the line and it’s essential the Cherries show some integrity for the likes of Leeds United and Leicester. An early goal could be vital. If Gary O’Neil’s side go ahead the nerves and pressure will reach fever-pitch.
If Everton can register an early goal themselves it will be a hammer blow to the likes of Leeds and Leicester. Both need to win themselves and they could have the stuffing knocked out of them if they hear of an early Everton opener.
With a potential takeover in the offing, the significance of staying in the Premier League has now taken on an added importance.