Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson believes that Liverpool are just one step away from securing the Premier League title this season, with the key to it all lying in their upcoming Merseyside derby against Everton. Despite suffering a shock 1-0 defeat to Plymouth Argyle in the FA Cup, Merson is optimistic about Liverpool’s title chances, provided they win at Goodison Park.
The Reds are currently top of the table, with Arsenal trailing six points behind in second. Merson sees Liverpool’s victory over Everton as the moment that could all but wrap up the title. “If Liverpool win at Everton, they’d be nine points clear with 15-odd games left,” he said. “They’d have to lose four of them, which I think would be impossible.” According to Merson, a win against Everton would place Liverpool in an almost unassailable position, making it nearly impossible for Arsenal to catch them with so few games remaining.
This crucial match comes after the Merseyside derby was postponed in December due to safety concerns surrounding Storm Darragh. With the match now rescheduled, Merson believes it could prove decisive in Liverpool’s title push. If they take all three points, it will not only boost their title aspirations but also put significant pressure on Arsenal, who are still in the hunt for silverware but are facing increasing challenges in multiple competitions.
Liverpool are not just focusing on the Premier League, with the team still involved in the Champions League and the EFL Cup, as well as facing strong teams like Aston Villa, Manchester City, and Arsenal before the end of the season. However, Merson feels the upcoming weeks could see Arsenal fall out of the race, suggesting that a victory for Liverpool would give them enough of a cushion to fend off the Gunners’ challenge.
FourFourTwo also acknowledges the potential of a Liverpool wobble, particularly given their busy schedule across three competitions. Despite this, a nine-point lead would put Jurgen Klopp’s side in a commanding position as they look to extend their unbeaten run.
Liverpool will have another tough test when they face Wolverhampton Wanderers later this week, but Merson’s prediction remains clear: if the Reds beat Everton, they will be one step closer to claiming the Premier League crown.