Everton host Manchester City on Monday 4th May after a trip to West Ham this Saturday.
How David Moyes sets his side up for these games will be a key factor in whether Everton qualify for Europe this season, with only three points currently separating the Toffees from sixth place – which secures UEFA Europa League football.
On paper, the clash against Manchester City seems harder than the meeting with West Ham – who are firmly in a relegation battle – although Paul Merson believes Everton will make life tough for Pep Guardiola at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
How many points are Everton taking from the final five? 💪
And how many points do you think Everton need to qualify for Europe? 🤔
Paul Merson expecting a gritty defensive display from Everton up against Manchester City
After Manchester City only managed to beat Burnley 1-0 on Wednesday night, the former Arsenal star believes Everton will also pose a problem for Guardiola.
Merson told Sky Sports: “Arsenal are back in the title race. City didn’t rip Burnley up by four or five, they’re not going to do that against Everton in their next game.
“Everton are very good defensively, so are Brentford. Bournemouth are also very good at the back. The Premier League title race could come down to goal difference.”
Everton – who want Liam Delap – have conceded just 39 goals in 33 Premier League games so far this season. Only Crystal Palace, Manchester City and Arsenal have shipped fewer.
Only Gianluigi Donnarumma and David Raya have kept more clean sheets than the 11 Jordan Pickford has managed this term too.
The Toffees are quite clearly a solid unit, and having only lost 2-0 to Manchester City back in October due to a quick-fire double from Erling Haaland within five minutes, fans should feel optimistic that Moyes can take at least a point from Guardiola.
How would you line up for West Ham, with confirmation needed on Beto’s fitness… 😬
Another big decision needs to be made at centre-back, too! 🫣
Should that happen and Arsenal take full advantage, former Toffee Mikel Arteta will undoubtedly owe Moyes a pint – or two.
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