Prediction: Everton vs Manchester City

30th January 2012

Everton made it to the FA Cup fifth round by beating Fulham at Goodison, but the Toffes would probably trade that result for a victory over Manchester City. The Citizens boosted their title hopes with the hard-fought win over title rivals Tottenham, but were then eliminated from the Carling Cup by Liverpool, meaning that both side will have something to prove in this clash.

On paper, Everton boast one of the best squads in the Premiership outside the title rivals, but something is preventing the Toffees from mounting a serious challenge for European places. That probably has something to do with the very small squad David Moyes has at his disposal, and it is the lack of strength in depth that cost the Toffees dearly at times. Everton are also experiencing major problems in the scoring department, with none of Saha, Anichebe, Vellios or Starcqualursi looking capable of scoring goals on regular basis. That is one of the reasons why Everton have one of the worst scoring records in the top flight, while the lack of creativity in midfield is another. Looking at team’s latest displays, I cannot help but feel they don’t even deserve a place in the top half of the standings, and lower mid table appears to be their reality. Having picked up just two points from last four league games and largely struggling at their Goodison, Everton don’t have much to hope for before the clash with Manchester City, especially given their selection problems. Phil Jagielka, Seamus Coleman, Leon Osman, Jack Rodwell and Sylvain Distin remain sidelined, whereas Ross Barkley is a doubt with a knee injury.

After the small dip in form the team suffered at the turn of the year, Manchester City are slowly rediscovering their form and getting ready for what should be a very interesting finish to the season. The Citizens have been eliminated from both FA Cup and Carling Cup, but they showed a lot of promise in games against Manchester United and Liverpool, proving they are close to reaching the desired form. Roberto Mancini’s side recorded a very important victory over Tottenham last weekend, even if they needed a last-gasp penalty goal after squandering a two-goal lead against Spurs. Stefan Savic, who was at blame for several goals over the last few weeks is set to be relegated to the bench now that Vincent Kompany has returned from a four-match suspension and that should stabilize City’s back line. Mario Balotelli, Kolo Toure and Yaya Toure remain unavailable, but that won’t be a problem as Mancini is spoilt for options in midfield and attack.

Conclusion

I am starting to feel that this Everton side are completely overrated, seeing they failed to show they deserve to be in the top half of the standings. Manchester City, on the other hand, are now back to their best and they should be able to record an easy win at Goodison Park.

Verdict: Away win Manchester City (2)

Best Odds: 17/20

Bookmaker: William Hill