Everton host Manchester City in must-win showdown as title race tightens

The pressure is firmly on Manchester City as they make the trip to Merseyside. After topping the table following victories over Arsenal and Burnley, Pep Guardiola's outfit have slipped six points adrift of the Gunners without playing a Premier League fixture. Arsenal's wins over Newcastle and Fulham have pushed them into pole position, and with a superior goal difference of +41 to City's +37, the reigning champions face an uphill task.

City can still level things up by winning their two games in hand, but time is running out in what has become a tense title scrap.

Everton's European dreams suffered a significant blow following heartbreaking defeats to Liverpool and West Ham, both decided in the dying moments. The Toffees retain a mathematical chance of Champions League football, however, giving them reason to fight on Monday night.

Match Details

The fixture kicks off at 8pm BST on Monday, May 5 at Hill Dickinson Stadium, with Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League showing proceedings from 7pm. TalkSPORT will broadcast full commentary.

Team News

David Moyes can recall Beto to his attacking ranks after the forward sat out the West Ham reverse following a concussion picked up against Liverpool. However, Everton's defensive options have been weakened considerably, with Jarrad Branthwaite ruled out for the season after suffering a hamstring injury in the Merseyside derby. Michael Keane will step in alongside the back line.

Jack Grealish remains unavailable for the season.

Manchester City face an injury concern with Rodri's groin issue still being assessed ahead of selection. Ruben Dias is unlikely to feature due to a thigh problem, whilst Josko Gvardiol continues his long-term absence.

The Odds

Bookmakers make City 1/2 favourites for victory, which would draw them to within three points of Arsenal. Everton are priced at 9/2 to deliver a major blow to City's title ambitions, with the draw at 15/4.

In the outright title market, City have drifted to 13/10 following Arsenal's comfortable disposal of Fulham, with the Gunners available at 8/13.

What to Expect

City's recent record at this particular venue makes for compelling reading. They've won eight consecutive matches at Hill Dickinson Stadium and have thoroughly dominated Everton in recent seasons, claiming 14 victories and three draws from their last 17 top-flight meetings.

The manner of their Merseyside derby defeat may have taken some wind from Everton's sails, potentially playing into City's hands. While Erling Haaland dipped below his astronomical standards for a spell, the Norwegian has now found the net in five consecutive appearances. He bagged both goals in City's 2-0 victory over Everton earlier in the campaign.

The smart money backs Haaland to open the scoring in a City win, available at 7/2.