Everton: Paul Merson predicts result of Bournemouth showdown in ‘nightmare’ verdict
Everton will have to continue to wait for their first Premier League win of the season when they face Bournemouth on Saturday 30 March, according to Paul Merson.
The Sky Sports pundit believes that Sean Dyche’s side won’t return from the March international break with a win at the Vitality Stadium, predicting the two sides will share the points and draw 1-1.
Bournemouth claimed a crucial three points with a magnificent comeback against Luton Town last time out and Merson believes that Andoni Iraloa’s side will make it hard for the Toffees to get back to winning ways.
Writing for Sportskeeda on Thursday (28 March) he said: “This is yet another Everton game that’s hard to call. There are no easy games when you’re down at the bottom. Everton are one of those teams that are a nightmare for football pundits because you never know what you’re going to get with them.
“Everton are the only team embroiled in the relegation battle that have that X-factor in them that helps them get big results. You wouldn’t be surprised if Everton nicked a draw against the big teams – they have the ability to hurt any side.
“Bournemouth can be a tricky team to beat every now and then, and they will make it hard for Everton. I think this game could end in a draw.”
Will Everton manage to avoid relegation from the Premier League?
Off-the-field drama has slightly distracted from Everton’s terrible form in the Premier League in 2024, but the Toffees need to put their issues to one side and get back to winning ways in the league and quickly.
Dyche’s side have been a “nightmare” to predict as Merson suggested, but they do have that X-factor in their squad that can turn a game on its head in a single action, whether it be Dwight McNeil’s delivery or their strength from set-pieces.
Bournemouth won’t be easy to beat, but the Toffees should be heading to the south coast full of confidence having already beaten the Cherries once and having had a lengthy international break.
Hopefully, Dyche’s side can go one step further than Merson has predicted and find a way to claim all three points on Saturday. A win at the Vitality would be a massive step towards Premier League safety this term.
In other Everton news, David Ornstein has shared an update on Amadou Onana’s potential transfer to Arsenal this summer
For more Everton news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.