'Unnecessary drama' - Merson predicts result of Everton clash v West Ham in relegation verdict

Everton will head into the international break with back-to-back defeats after their clash with West Ham United, according to Paul Merson.

Sean Dyche’s side make the trip to the London Stadium on Saturday (9 November) as they look to get back to winning ways following their disappointing defeat to Southampton last time out.

Although Merson has been less than impressed by the Hammers so far this season, he believes the Toffees will lose 2-0 in the capital and be plunged back into the relegation battle.

Writing for Sportskeeda on Thursday (7 November) he said: “Everton were going along nicely and then they got beat by Southampton.

“They aren’t in trouble at the moment, but it’s a lot of unnecessary drama. If Everton won, they could’ve gone to 12 points. Instead, they are now just four points away from the drop zone and I don’t expect them to beat West Ham either.

“Julen Lopetegui is under pressure to deliver at West Ham. The problem with them is the inconsistency. They’re one of them teams who could win a couple of games and then go lose a few on the trot. And when they get beat, they get capitulated, like they did last weekend against Nottingham Forest!

“I always go back to this with West Ham, be careful what you wish for. David Moyes is a good manager and they won a European trophy under him. Don’t forget that this was a West Ham that did nothing for many years.

“Sometimes people can get caught up in the total football philosophy and overlook the fact that it’s always about winning games.

“I still doubt Lopetegui knows his best XI. However, I expect West Ham to win here. Everton could now be dragged back into the relegation battle.”

What has happened to Everton boss Sean Dyche at Goodison Park?

After a period of comparable stability at Goodison Park over the last few weeks, another defeat heading into the international break would be a massive blow for the Toffees and Dyche.

Before the defeat at Southampton, it felt as though the Blues had begun to turn a corner. Yes, the performances weren’t great and there was still plenty of room for improvement, but the Blues had begun picking up points.

However, if the Toffees head into the break with zero points from their last two games, as Merson predicts, they will not only be in a relegation battle, but Dyche could also be fighting for his job once again on Merseyside.

Hopefully, the Sky Sports pundit will be wide of the mark this time around. A win on Saturday would massively lift the mood in and around Goodison and serve as a major step towards Premier League safety for the Toffees.

In other Everton news, one player the Toffees are interested in is set to exit during the January transfer window

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