Stuart Pearce and Martin Keown disagree live on talkSPORT with Nottingham Forest v Everton predictions
Stuart Pearce and Martin Keown have offered differing predictions ahead of this weekend’s clash between Nottingham Forest and Everton.
The two sides face off at City Ground on Saturday (2 December) with three vital Premier League points on the line.
Everton are five points from safety after recently being deducted 10 points, while Forest boss Steve Cooper is under pressure after a barren run.
Asked for his prediction live on talkSPORT [1 December, 12:59], Keown said: “This is a massive game for both clubs.
“Forest have lost three of their last four matches, albeit their home form has usually rescued them, so can Everton overcome that?
“I think Everton might pinch something; they might upset the applecart. There have been too many draws from Forest’s point of view this season.
“With all the noise, it might just be easier for them away from home. I can see them maybe getting a win now.”
Pearce disagreed, saying: “I think it’s got 1-1 written all over it – a low-scoring draw.
“I think Everton are finding it difficult to score goals, while Forest have not got that sparkle they had at home last year.”
Target the win
Prior to the points deduction, Everton would have approached this trip to the City Ground in a stress-free manner.
That is far from the case now, as a defeat this weekend could potentially see the gap on safety grow even further.
While the Toffees’ situation looks bleak after a 3-0 loss to Manchester United last week, they have still won half of their last eight matches.
Over the same period, Forest have won just once – a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa on 5 November.
Keown is right to point out that Forest’s home form is decent, having won five, drawn three and lost just one of their last nine there since April.
The Reds did lose last time out at City Ground to Brighton and Hove Albion, though, and Everton have won three of their last four away games.
It makes for an intriguing contest, one in which there is no reason Everton cannot come away from with three vital points.
In other Everton news, an update has been provided on a Toffees target ahead of the January transfer window.