Everton are back in Premier League action this weekend as they take on Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
David Moyes’ side went into the October international break off the back of a dramatic late victory against Crystal Palace.
So they will be hoping to take that momentum into the Man City game on Saturday afternoon, with Pep Guardiola’s side only a couple of points ahead.
Ahead of Everton’s clash, former Arsenal playmaker and now well-known television pundit Paul Merson has issued his score prediction.
Paul Merson.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Paul Merson predicts Everton vs Manchester City
Writing in his Sportskeeda column, Merson admitted it will be difficult for Everton to get a result without Jack Grealish, who won’t be eligible to face his parent club.
“I know they beat Crystal Palace last time out, but that was the most snatch-and-grab win I’ve seen in a long time! With Jack Grealish ineligible to play, I’d be shocked if City didn’t win this game.
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“Erling Haaland is in the form of his life. If he stays fit, he wins the golden boot. What makes Haaland different from other strikers is that he can just score four or five goals in a game, no one else can do that so easily!
“I’m not saying City are title contenders but they are not far off it either. If they win against Everton, they can go top of the table before Arsenal play Fulham.”
Merson continued: “In the absence of Grealish, I don’t expect Iliman Ndiaye and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to be as effective as they have been this season. Nothing but a City win.”
Merson predicted Man City to beat Everton 2-0.
Mark Clattenburg and Graeme Bailey predict Everton vs Man City
Speaking to TBR Football, former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg and journalist Graeme Bailey made their predictions for the game this weekend.
Clattenburg said: “Manchester City at home will always be difficult for any team. Easy win.”
Prediction**:** Man City 3-0 Everton
Bailey added: “No Jack Grealish is a huge blow for Everton, but a huge relief to City as they will be happy not to face him. City ease to victory.”
Prediction**:** Man City 2-0 Everton
So, as expected, Everton are the big underdogs, but that creates the opportunity to make a real statement for Moyes and his players.