‘It’s a madness’ – Paul Merson gives shocking FA Cup final prediction
Paul Merson has opted to go against common opinion and endorse Chelsea to win the FA Cup final against Liverpool.
Although Liverpool are the favorites going into the match, the two teams haven’t been separated in regulation time three times this season.
Merson believes both teams are leggy heading into the second half of the season, and that Chelsea has a chance to win.
Paul Merson told Sportskeeda: “In recent weeks, both teams have looked a bit tired and open at the back. Liverpool have beaten both Villarreal in the UEFA ChampionsLeague and Aston Villa in the Premier League in the last 10 days or so, but they were carved open at the back a handful of times and were slow to react to danger”
“As for Chelsea, they let a two-goal lead slip against Wolves and looked out of sorts at the back in the second half, which is a clear indication that tiredness is beginning to creep in.
“Injuries to Fabinho and Mateo Kovacic will obviously come as massive blows to their respective teams, but if reports are to be believed, the Chelsea midfielder could be available for the FA Cup final if he makes a swift recovery. Fabinho, however, has officially been ruled out and Liverpool usually lack discipline when he doesn’t play, as he knits everything together.
“Thomas Tuchel’s biggest worry, in my opinion, is the fact that he’s still not figured out his preferred front three – it’s a madness! We’re in May and with a few days to go until the cup final, they still don’t know who is going to play.
“I believe Kai Havertz and Mason Mount will start for sure, but who joins them in attack? Timo Werner can cause a lot of problems with his pace and directness, while Romelu Lukaku has been back amongst the goals in recent weeks and looks a different player now. With the likes of Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech also in the mix, Tuchel does have a lot of options, but which one of them will get the nod?
“When I first thought about this game, I was inkling towards a draw, but I fancy Chelsea to win it 2-1 as Fabinho’s absence swings the game in the Blues’ favor. The Carabao Cup final ended 0-0, but the amount of chances created on the night was absolutely mindblowing.
“Finally, if the game does go to penalties, I really hope Chelsea don’t bring Kepa Arrizabalaga on! We saw what happened last time out and I think they’ll be better of with EdouardMendy, who has been a top-class addition to the side since his move from Rennes in 2020.”