Paul Merson predicts the FA Cup final between Chelsea and Liverpool
Paul Merson has made his prediction for this weekend's FA Cup final between Chelsea and Liverpool at Wembley Stadium.
The two teams met earlier this year in the Carabao Cup final, with Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool winning on penalties.
Chelsea enters Saturday's match having lost their previous two FA Cup finals, to Leicester City and Arsenal.
'When I first thought about this game, I was leaning towards a draw, but I think Chelsea will win 2-1 because Fabinho's absence tilts the game in their favor.' The Carabao Cup final ended 0-0, but the number of chances created on the night was incredible.
'Finally, if the game goes to penalties, I hope Chelsea does not bring on Kepa Arrizabalaga!' We saw what happened the last time they played, and I believe they'll be better off with Edouard Mendy, who has been a top-class addition to the side since joining from Rennes in 2020.'
However, with Liverpool midfielder Fabinho ruled out due to injury, Merson believes the Blues will win 2-1 at Wembley.
'In recent weeks, both teams have appeared tired and vulnerable at the back. Liverpool have recently beaten Villarreal in the UEFA Champions League and Aston Villa in the Premier League, but they have been carved open at the back a handful of times and were slow to react to danger,’ Merson said
'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 sign that fatigue is setting in.' Injuries to Fabinho and Mateo Kovacic will undoubtedly be devastating 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 recovers quickly. Fabinho, on the other hand, has been officially ruled out, and Liverpool usually lack discipline when he isn't playing because he ties everything together. Thomas Tuchel's biggest concern, in my opinion, is that he has yet to figure out his preferred front three – it's insane! We're in May, and there's and 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 lead the charge, but who will join them?' Timo Werner's pace and directness can cause havoc, while Romelu Lukaku has been scoring again in recent weeks and appears to be a different player. Tuchel has a lot of options, with Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech also in the mix, but which one will get the nod?
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