Merson says if Manchester City beat Spurs this weekend they will be back to the pack.
Paul Merson has told SkySports that Tottenham Hotspur’s title charge will be dealt a big blow if they lose to Manchester City this weekend, a result he expects.
Spurs are hoping to record a fourth successive league win over City, following up their 2-0 win over Pep Guardiola’s side earlier this season.
Tottenham are currently second in the Premier League and just seven points behind leaders Chelsea.
Paul Merson
The Blues have a home game against Hull City this weekend, a game they will be expected to win.
Merson is tipping a Tottenham defeat to Manchester City, calling a 2-1 scoreline to the home side.
He told SkySports: “Everybody is telling me Tottenham can win the league but if Man City beat them then they are level on points with Mauricio Pochettino’s side. It’s a must-win game for City.
“For me, it’s cometh the hour cometh the man. Pep’s got to put a side out that will produce and win this match and I’m backing him to do it.”
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola looks dejected
Tottenham go into the game without star defender Jan Vertonghen who is injured, but will be hoping Kevin Wimmer can step up as he did at the Etihad in Spurs’ 2-1 win last season. Erik Lamela, who starred in that victory, is still sidelined with injury.
City are in fifth position in the table and could enter Saturday’s late game in sixth if Manchester United win at Stoke City.
Guardiola’s side were hammered 4-0 at Everton last weekend and will be keen to show a reaction and shake off the heavy loss.
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