Paul Merson makes interesting prediction for Everton vs Ipswich

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Everton return to Premier League action on Saturday with a trip down to face Ipswich Town at Portman Road.

Sean Dyche‘s side have finally begun to show the Goodison Park faithful some improved performances of late to provide them with some optimism.

Although Everton have been able to climb up and out of the bottom three, it is still incredibly tight down there and three points would go a long way.

And on Saturday they will be coming up against the side which is sitting just one place and one point below them in the table.

By the end of play on Saturday, the Toffees could find themselves level on points with Manchester United if they are able to seal a victory.

Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has now shared his prediction for the game down in Suffolk with the Toffees looking to keep their improved form going.

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Paul Merson shares his Ipswich vs Everton prediction

Going into the game on Saturday, there will be some concerns from a number of Everton fans about their injury list which has formed over recent weeks.

Perhaps the most frustrating one being Jarrad Branthwaite’s latest injury which he has picked up following his recent return to action.

And then there are players like James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam who are now set to miss the game on Saturday.

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Speaking to Sportskeeda, Merson has admitted he actually feels as if the Toffees are going to walk away from Portman Road with all three points.

“Huge game in the context of the relegation battle. Everton can’t afford to lose this game, but it’s a must-win for Ipswich Town,” he said.

“If Ipswich end up winning this, they re on track to avoid relegation with seven points from eight games. That would take them to an average of close to one point per game, which gives them a good chance of staying up if they maintain it. This should be the target for all newly-promoted teams.

“I don’t like going against Everton here. I just think they’ve been in these situations before and are well equipped to handle it. I expect them to make it difficult for Ipswich in this clash and I’m predicting Sean Dyche’s men to come away with all three points.”

Paul Merson warns Everton of in-form Ipswich forward

It is still extremely tight between the two sides around the foot of the table but Ipswich have held both Fulham and Aston Villa to draws in their last two home games.

And at the heart of the impressive draw against Villa was Ipswich’s young striker Liam Delap who proved a real threat.

Ahead of the game, Merson has warned Everton they will need to be wary of the threat the former Manchester City prospect will provide.

“Liam Delap has been outstanding for Ipswich this season. He’s a proper threat and a real handful for defenders,” said Merson.

“It just shows what a youngster can do if he’s given a chance. Ipswich will be hoping he can continue to find the back of the net because their survival depends on it.”