Paul Merson has predicted that the Merseyside Derby between Liverpool and Everton could have a massive say in where the Premier League title goes this season.
The Reds face their local rivals at Goodison Park on Sunday looking to maintain their one point lead over Manchester City heading into the final ten games of the season.
City face Bournemouth on Saturday, meaning they could be top of the Premier League table before the Merseyside Derby kicks off, which would give them a psychological advantage in the race for the title.
Former Arsenal player Merson reckons Liverpool just need to get through this game without dropping points one way or another, and has tipped Klopp’s side for a 2-1 win.
‘Massive, massive game. Manchester City will have probably won and be top of the league, and with 10 to go, who plays first is a big mental advantage,’ ‘Merse’ said in his weekly Sky Sports prediction column.
‘I thought Tottenham were unlucky when they didn’t win the league in 2015/16, it felt like Leicester were always playing first, and Spurs were always playing catch-up.
‘If Liverpool win, they’re ticking off a big game. It’s out of Man City’s hands at the moment, but as soon as Liverpool do drop points I think they’re in trouble.
‘Watford was a banana skin, it looked a hard game, and they come out with a 5-0 win. That gives them a massive boost.
‘What threat do Everton have? Man-for-man, there is no threat, but it’s Everton’s cup final. Liverpool have to get through this unscathed.’
