Paul Merson reveals prediction for Manchester City v Crystal Palace clash

Former England international and Arsenal star Paul Merson has revealed his prediction for Manchester City v Crystal Palace.

City host Palace at the Etihad this weekend as they look to return to winning ways.

Pep Guardiola’s side were held to a surprise 2-2 draw by Middlesbrough last weekend. The result leaves City just a point ahead of fifth placed Man United and three points behind Liverpool.

City has just two wins to their name in their last eight Premier League games.

However, Merson believes City will make easy work of Crystal Palace. The SkySports pundit stated that Palace have taken their foot off the gas after securing their place in the league. Merson has predicted a 3-1 victory for Man City.

“City have stumbled a bit of late but so have Palace. Sam Allardyce’s side have hit a bit of a brick wall after some excellent results” Merson told SkySports.

“If you look at the table Palace have now done their job which is a positive for City. If Palace were at it would be a different story, but they’re not and that points to a City victory.

“Pep Guardiola’s side need all three points from this game and I see them beating a Palace side that has slightly gone off the boil.”

Germany international Ilkay Gundogan will miss this weekend’s clash with an injury. The 26-year-old is however approaching full fitness. Gundogan was spotted dancing to a Bruno Mars track after attending his concert.