Everton do something Paul Merson never thought he’d see before Liverpool game
Paul Merson admits that he never expected Everton to score four goals in one match after the win against Wolves but expects Sean Dyche’s side to fall short against Liverpool.
The Blues recorded a statement victory against Wolves on Wednesday [4 December] as Ashley Young and Orel Mangala found themselves on the scoresheet alongside two Craig Dawson own goals to round off a 4-0 rout.
However, despite the midweek result, Merson said he still believes Liverpool will win the Merseyside derby in his Premier League predictions for Sportskeeda [5 December], but mooted one slight advantage Everton have over their rivals heading into possibly the final derby at Goodison Park.
He predicted a 2-0 win for Liverpool and said: “This would be the last Merseyside derby at Goodison Park, what an iconic venue it’s been in the Premier League. Everton got a great result against Wolves on Wednesday.
“I never thought they would get four goals in a game this season. That win puts them in a good position, but this is a tough game.
“Liverpool dropped points against Newcastle and cannot afford to do the same again on Saturday. The Everton fans will always make it difficult for them.
“But it helps Liverpool that Everton beat Wolves quite comfortably in the last game. Everton will now turn up thinking they have a chance and have a swing at Liverpool. This will help Arne Slot’s team pick them apart in my opinion.”
Everton should focus on dead-ball situations v Liverpool
Dwight McNeil has rediscovered his true calling at Everton as his “perfect” deliveries from set-pieces made all the difference for his side against Wolves.
All four of the Blues’ goals on the night came from dead-ball situations, and as they prepare to face a high-flying Liverpool side, Sean Dyche could lean on his talisman to make a difference once again.
Dyche has a tendency of producing a “tremendous” result for the Toffees just when all hope appears lost, and for the first time in a long time, Everton are heading into the Merseyside derby with genuine belief of recording a monumental victory.
While Liverpool are being warned to play the game rather than the occasion, the Blues should take the opposite approach and use what is likely to be the final derby at Goodison Park to spurn the players on and harness the energy from the supporters who will be up for it right from the first whistle.
Everton, of course, beat Liverpool 2-0 at home last season against all the odds – they are heading into the contest brimming with contest and eager to give Goodison Park a historic Merseyside derby send off.
In other Everton news, Abdoulaye Doucoure’s exit is on the cards for the Toffees as Roma eye a January transfer.
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.