David James shares ‘100%’ Everton relegation prediction live on BBC ahead of ‘intriguing’ clash v Liverpool
Former Liverpool goalkeeper David James has “100% faith” that Everton will not be relegated from the Premier League this season.
After narrowly avoiding the drop last season, the Toffees currently sit 16th in the Premier League table, with just seven points from their eight matches so far.
They make the short trip to Anfield to take on fierce rivals Liverpool next, with the match taking place on Saturday (21 October).
“It’s going to be an intriguing match because given Everton’s lowly position in the table, it’s quite misleading,” James said on BBC Radio 5 Live, as quoted by BBC Sport. “Here’s a little stat for you, Everton have had more shots on target this season than Liverpool.
“Liverpool have got a lot of concerns around injuries, Klopp has been unhappy around the fixture schedule but I still think Liverpool will be favourites to win of course. I think this is going to be a really tough one.
“This is the kind of game you want to win, especially when everything is against you. I have 100% faith in Everton staying up, I think they will do pretty well this season. It will be a pretty important victory for Liverpool if they are able to do it.”
Huge clash
The upcoming Merseyside Derby is a huge clash for both sides, with both desperate to win given what is at stake. It is a massive game for the entire city of Liverpool, with three points and bragging rights going to the victors.
The hosts are undoubtedly favourites going into the clash, not least because of home advantage, with the Anfield faithful set to be in full voice.
But Liverpool are also in a much stronger position than the Toffees in the Premier League table, with Dyche’s men really low on confidence.
The home side have enjoyed a strong campaign so far, with the Reds sitting fourth in the table on 17 points. Jurgen Klopp’s men have won five of their eight matches, and will be keen to continue their strong recent record against their fierce rivals on Saturday.
An away victory or even a draw would be a shock given the circumstances, and it may just help Everton turn their season around.
In other Everton news, the Toffees are eyeing a breakthrough with a brand new £35million transfer.