Everton fans to scoff as Paul Merson makes new season prediction ahead of Newcastle
Paul Merson has cast doubt on Everton’s hopes of qualifying for Europe this season ahead of their trip to St James’ Park.
That is at least according to the former Arsenal man’s weekly column on Sportskeeda.
David Moyes’ side are looking to continue their impressive away record and bounce back from Monday’s disappointing defeat against Manchester United at Hill Dickinson.
European football is still there to be played for, with the Toffees eight points behind fifth place as it stands, even if Merson is unconfident about their chances.
Saturday’s opponents, Newcastle, are not far behind, and that makes this fixture quite important for both sides, with Merson delivering his verdict.
What has Paul Merson said about Everton’s chances against Newcastle?
Merson does not hold much hope for either Everton’s chances against Newcastle or their goal to qualify for Europe this season.
Fans will certainly not be happy with his overview, as they look to compete in Europe for the first season since 2017-2018.
The race for Europe has provided a more positive boost for the Blues after years of fighting relegation, and supporters will want to retain that optimism of a strong finish to the season.
To do so, Everton must get a strong result against Newcastle.
Speaking about the game, Merson said: “Both Newcastle and Everton are stuck in mid-table positions. At this rate, I don’t expect either of them to qualify for European football next season.”
On top of that prediction, the 57-year-old has gone with the Geordies to win 2-1, based on the fact that they are at home. However, his viewpoint may not be backed up by the stats.
Why Merson’s Everton prediction has no substance
Everton are one of the toughest teams to beat on the road, and Newcastle, being at home, will not be as much of an advantage as Merson suggests.
Since Moyes returned to the club, Everton have won the second most away points in the Premier League with 38.
The Blues have only lost one away game to any of the sides currently below them in the table, which was their opening match of the season against Leeds United.
It is in stark contrast to their home form, and a game away from Merseyside will likely be welcomed by the Toffees.
Additionally, they are one of two sides to concede fewer than a goal per away game in that time (18 in 22), along with Arsenal (18 in 23).
All signs certainly point to Everton having an edge that Merson has not thought about for his prediction.
Now, if the Toffees pick up all three points in Tyneside, you simply would not be able to write them out of the race for Europe, as he has seemingly already done.
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