Paul Merson cannot believe what he has just said about Everton ahead of Aston Villa showdown

Paul Merson cannot believe what he has just said about Everton ahead of Aston Villa showdown

Paul Merson Surprised by His Own Everton Prediction Ahead of Aston Villa Clash

Paul Merson has expressed surprise at his own confidence in Everton as they prepare to face Aston Villa in the Premier League’s return following the international break.

David Moyes’ Everton side will host Villa at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, and all eyes will be on Jack Grealish as he lines up against his former club. Despite the attention on Grealish, Moyes has a number of players capable of making an impact in the game.

A win against Unai Emery’s men would be a strong statement from Everton and would give a serious boost to their hopes of qualifying for European competition.

Although a supercomputer predicted a loss for the Toffees, Merson doesn’t see them having any trouble dispatching Villa. He predicted a 2-0 victory for Everton and admitted he was caught off guard by his own prediction.

Writing in his weekly column for Sportskeeda, Merson said: “I can’t believe I’m backing Everton here because Villa are a good team. But Unai Emery’s side just aren’t gelling right now, and I don’t think they’ll break that run this weekend.”

Merson also praised the chemistry between Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, which has flourished under Moyes. “Everton have become the entertainers, haven’t they? Seeing Dewsbury-Hall and Grealish link up so smoothly has been a joy for fans,” he added.

Merson’s confidence in Everton shouldn’t come as a surprise given recent form. The Merseyside club has looked the stronger of the two teams—especially at home. Villa have failed to score in the league so far and now face Jordan Pickford, one of the Premier League’s top-performing goalkeepers.

Key stats:

• Villa have conceded four goals without scoring in their opening three games.
• Everton have scored five and conceded three.
• Moyes will hope the international break hasn’t disrupted his team’s momentum.

Given the disparity in form, Merson’s choice to back Everton seems entirely reasonable. The Blues are currently operating at a higher level than Villa, and the difference is clear.

If Everton can continue this form throughout the season and consistently outperform teams like Villa—who are aiming for a top-four finish—it will be a significant boost to their campaign.

A victory on Saturday would send a clear message to the rest of the league that Everton are serious contenders this season.

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