Paul Merson predicts Everton v West Brom, states major threat
By Dominic Toner
Paul Merson has tipped Everton to beat West Brom 2-1 in their meeting on Saturday, but expects the Baggies to be a real threat from set-pieces.
The Toffees host West Brom in the Premier League and will be looking to respond to their 3-2 defeat to Tottenham in their last game.
Ronald Koeman’s side are seventh-placed in the league and are trying to get into the picture for a European spot.
Meanwhile, West Brom are eight in the table and just four points adrift of the Merseyside club.
Sky Sports pundit Merson has backed Everton to record a narrow victory, but feels Koeman’s side must be careful from set-pieces.
“Despite their defeat at Tottenham, Everton have been in excellent form at home, picking up four straight wins in the league,” Merson told Sky Sports. “They face a tough test against West Brom, who are a difficult side to beat.
“They’ve got a good football team and will be a threat from set-pieces, but I’m just going to side with Everton for a narrow victory.”
Tony Pulis’ side are known to be a real threat from set-pieces and goalscoring defender is a major part of their success in that area.
The centre-back is the club’s joint-highest scorer with seven goals this season and is certainly a player the Toffees will be concerned about facing from corners.
The Baggies also possess great height in their side and Everton will surely have been working on set-piece defending in the build-up to this game.
In other Everton news, the club’s 24-year-old has delivered a fitness update and earmarked a date for his return.
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