Paul Merson predicts result of Everton clash v Brighton in new relegation verdict
Everton will get their Premier League season up and running with a win over Brighton and dodge relegation again, according to Paul Merson.
The Sky Sports pundit has backed Sean Dyche’s side to claim all three points against the Seagulls at Goodison Park on Saturday (17 August) predicting that the Toffees will win 2-0.
While there is still plenty of uncertainty off of the pitch at Goodison Park, Merson believes the Blues will be able to do the business on the field, as long as Dyche doesn’t lose his job in the coming months.
Writing for Sportskeeda (15 August) he said: “Brighton might be one of the teams that struggle this season, and this is a big game for them.
“If Everton don’t beat Brighton this weekend, it’s going to be a long season for them. It’s so important that a team that has struggled the previous season gets off to a good start in a fresh campaign.
“I think Everton will be safe yet again this season. As long as Sean Dyche stays at Everton, they won’t get relegated. I think they’ll be better than what they were last season.
“I’d be shocked if Brighton pull off a victory here, and I’m backing Everton to win this game.”
Will Everton be relegated and will Sean Dyche be sacked at Goodison Park?
While matters off of the pitch continue to rumble on in the background, for the first time in a few seasons there is almost a bit of optimism on the blue half of Merseyside heading into the new Premier League campaign.
Dyche and Kevin Thelwell have added well to their ranks, despite the limited transfer funds available at Goodison Park and the team at the Toffees boss’ disposal looks incredibly competitive.
Other than Amadou Onana, the Blues have managed to keep their exit-linked stars and while Jarrad Branthwaite could well miss the curtain-raiser through injury, he doesn’t appear to be going anywhere this summer.
Hopefully, Merson will be right and the Blues will get the final season at Goodison Park off to the perfect start. Brighton are a bit of unknown quantity, but Everton will back themselves to deal with whatever threat they pose.
In other Everton news, Newcastle’s stance on a late Dominic Calvert-Lewin bid has been shared after a new contract update
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.