‘Dangerous’: Paul Merson shares shock Newcastle United vs Everton prediction after major news he’s just heard

Everton are just days away from wrapping up their Premier League campaign with an away fixture that carries little weight for their own league standing, but immense significance for their hosts.

David Moyes is preparing to lead his team into a high-pressure encounter against Newcastle United, who are still fighting to secure a spot in next season’s Champions League.

While Everton have already cemented their place in 13th following a satisfying home victory at Goodison Park, this weekend’s clash in Tyneside will test their resolve, especially as Newcastle must deliver under pressure.

Despite having little more than pride to play for, Everton have never been a side to take their foot off the pedal. Their determination and fight have become part of their identity, and with Moyes at the helm, the team has regained a sense of resilience and purpose.

His impact since returning to the club has been immediate and impressive, helping Everton climb clear of relegation trouble with weeks to spare.

As the team gears up for their final match, Moyes remains focused on ending the season on a strong note, regardless of what’s at stake for the opposition.

Newcastle, on the other hand, enter the fixture with everything to lose. Their pursuit of Champions League football hangs in the balance, and St. James’ Park will be electric with expectation.

Yet, pundits like Paul Merson have warned that this match could be far more difficult than it appears on paper. Speaking to Sportskeeda, Merson cautioned that Everton are the type of team who refuse to roll over, regardless of the circumstances.

He noted that Moyes has instilled a gritty mentality in the squad, one that could frustrate Newcastle if the game remains scoreless deep into the second half.

Adding to Newcastle’s challenges is the uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak’s fitness. The striker’s potential absence would leave a significant void in their attacking line, and Merson emphasized that without him, the hosts might struggle to break down Everton’s disciplined defense.

With the pressure mounting and a Champions League place on the line, the home side can’t afford to leave anything to chance.

Everton, though not chasing European qualification, are still a team in transition and hungry to prove themselves. This match offers a final opportunity for several players to stake their claim for a place in Moyes’ long-term plans.

The departures of seasoned veterans like Ashley Young and Abdoulaye Doucouré at the end of the season signal the beginning of a new era, and competition for places is fierce.

The players understand that every performance counts, and many will view this weekend’s match as a crucial audition ahead of a transformative summer.

Behind the scenes, Everton’s ownership situation is generating renewed optimism. The Friedkins have expressed clear intent to invest heavily and close the gap on the league’s elite.

For the first time in years, Everton fans can look ahead to a summer with real financial muscle backing their ambitions. Moyes, with his experience and tactical acumen, appears well-placed to lead this next chapter, provided he receives the necessary support.

Interestingly, the reverse fixture between these two teams earlier in the season offered a dramatic moment when Jordan Pickford denied Anthony Gordon from the penalty spot, a save that reflected the spirit and tenacity that Moyes has nurtured in his squad.

That same level of commitment will be required again if Everton are to disrupt Newcastle’s Champions League hopes on Sunday.

While Newcastle hold the home advantage and arguably the greater need for three points, Everton’s recent form and newfound confidence under Moyes could make this fixture far more competitive than expected.

Paul Merson believes Newcastle may narrowly edge it, but he stops short of predicting an easy ride for the Magpies. Everton’s ability to stay organized, absorb pressure, and strike at the right moment gives them an outside shot at ending the season on a high.

As the Premier League season draws to a close, this final test for both teams serves as a microcosm of where they stand. For Newcastle, it’s about immediate glory and European ambition.

For Everton, it’s a chance to measure their progress and look toward a future shaped by fresh investment, a revitalized squad, and a manager who’s already proven his doubters wrong. With high stakes on one side and pride on the other, this promises to be a fiercely contested finale.