After defeat to Southampton last Saturday, Everton look destined to just miss out on fourth placed. The 2-0 reverse at St Mary’s would have been a hard one to take as both goals were scored by Everton players, unfortunately in the wrong net. It’s a result which leaves them four points behind Arsenal with two games to play. One more win will be enough to secure them fifth and round off what has been a terrific first season in charge for Roberto Martinez. The Spaniard has transformed the style of play at Goodison Park but he’s not sacrificed that winning mentality which was always evident under the previous regime. If they can build on this season by keeping the squad together and bring in another couple of quality players to provide more depth, then they will surely be in with another chance of challenging for the top four.
When City dropped five points in the space of four days in April, many believed that they had blown their chance of winning the Premier League title, including me. Fortunately for them, however, an inspired Chelsea side were able to halt the Liverpool juggernaut last weekend and inflict defeat on the league leaders for the first time in 2014. It’s a result which means the title is back in Manchester City’s hands, and if they win all of their last three games they will be all but assured of winning their second Premier League in three seasons. Many believe that this fixture – away to Everton – will be the decisive game but every match at this stage of the season is difficult in its own right. Everton away, though, is traditionally not a great game for City – they have lost on their last four visits.
One man who will not be able to play this weekend is Gareth Barry who is on loan at Everton from Man City. The midfielder has been in tremendous form this season and has stated his desire to remain at the club beyond his temporary contract. Whether not he does remains to be seen but the Toffee’s will definitely miss him on Saturday. His experience and discipline in the middle of the park has allowed Everton to play with a real confidence going forward so his absence is likely to be felt against one of the best sides in the division.
Having been missing so many key players at one point or another this season, the good news is that City now have their stars coming back to full fitness. David Silva, Sergio Aguero and Yaya Toure have all returned to action in the last 10 days and their influence cannot be underestimated. The last named of the trio showed his good health by scoring the second goal in their 2-0 victory at Crystal Palace and it’s that type of contribution which City need if they are to achieve their goal.
Although it looks like Everton have ran their race for fourth, they will be determined to finish their home season on a high. Any positive result for Martinez’ and his players could hand their city rivals, Liverpool, the title but they will be concentrating on themselves. Manchester City cannot ask for anymore at this point, they have their destiny in their own hands and know that three wins should do it. Although they have thrown in a couple of poor performances of late, I’m backing them to grasp this opportunity and take a huge step to the title.
Manchester City 3/4 @ Skybet
