Paul Merson believes Benitez should let his side go out and ‘express themselves’ ahead of tomorrow’s penultimate home game of the season against Southampton – backing the game to end 2-2.
The Sky pundit believes both teams are safe and is predicting goals in this one, but does insist that the two clubs are still playing for big money – with every position in the league table offering a couple of extra million quid.
Here’s what Merson’s had to say ahead of tomorrow’s 5.30pm kick off during his latest prediction piece:
“Both teams are safe, and there should be goals. Nobody is under pressure, they are both safe. Why not go out and express yourselves?
“The problem is there is still plenty to play for in terms of money for the club – moving up three positions can bring in millions of pounds.
“Winning this game can really help for that push. The players though, will not feel that pressure.”
Paul’s prediction – Newcastle 2-2 Southampton.
I actually agree with his prediction. A win in what could be Rafa’s penultimate home game would be brilliant, but Southampton are two points closer to the relegation places than ourselves and are in good form, so I fancy them to come out flying and cause a few problems in one last bid to secure safety.
It felt like we’d got that huge win we’d been waiting for in beating Leicester last Friday, so a small element of complacency could creep in.
My heart says a big end-of-season win for Benitez, but my head says a high-scoring draw.
