Merson predicts major matchday twist in top-four race between Man Utd and Liverpool

Paul Merson thinks the “pressure” will get to Liverpool on Monday night against Leicester City as their hopes of a top-four finish fade.

The Reds have done a brilliant job to win six Premier League matches on the bounce .

Erik ten Hag’s side have faltered in recent weeks with back-to-back losses against West Ham and Brighton with Liverpool now just one point behind Man Utd, although the Red Devils do have a game in hand.

Man Utd host Wolves on Saturday while Liverpool travel to Leicester City on Monday and Merson reckons the Red Devils will have the better matchday.

On Man Utd vs Wolves, Merson told Sportskeeda: “I expect Manchester United to win this. I think Manchester United were poor against West Ham United. They’ve finally got an entire week without a game after a long time.

“This is a must-win game for them. If they lose this, the pressure is back on them. They have to win three games before the end of the season to book a berth in the Champions League.

“The fixtures have been relentless for the Red Devils. This one is different and I expect them to outperform Wolves. Manchester United 3-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers.”

On Leicester vs Liverpool, Merson added: “I think Everton and Nottingham Forest are going to lose this week and I don’t see Leeds beating Newcastle United either. As such, this is a great opportunity for Leicester City to move towards surviving relegation.

“Liverpool are playing for a Champions League berth but they are not really ripping it up despite getting several wins under their belt in recent weeks. They are not exactly destroying teams and I think, Leicester have a chance here. But the Foxes can’t defend like they have in recent weeks. There is no point in drawing this game. They have got to win this one.

“I’m going to go with Leicester. By the time this game kicks off on Monday night, Manchester United and Newcastle United could have already won their games. Leicester could be buzzing because the three teams around them could have lost. The pressure will be on Liverpool and Leicester have everything to play for.

“This could be a season-defining game for Leicester. If they don’t win it, I think they’re going to get relegated. Leicester City 2-1 Liverpool”