Mark Lawrenson is “seriously worried” about Marco Silva’s future at Everton if they lose to Newcastle United this week.
The Liverpool legend was impressed by the commitment of Silva’s team in their 1-1 Merseyside derby draw last weekend but fears for the manager if they succumb at St James’ Park on Saturday.
“Newcastle lost at West Ham last week, but only really went for it in the second half when they were already 2-0 down, and looked a different team,” Lawrenson told BBC Sport.
“I am not sure what the Magpies’ approach will be like this time but I think what happens in this game is far more significant for Everton manager Marco Silva.
“After all their hard work last week, and the way they raised their game, if the Toffees went to St James’ Park and got run over, then I would be seriously worried.”
Lawrenson predicts Everton will emerge triumphant with a 2-1 win at Newcastle.
OPINION
Everton under Silva have tended to take an impressive stride forward one week, followed by a step back soon after and, then, another step back soon after that. It has been immensely frustrating for supporters, who have seen so many encouraging signs this season – notably in the two Merseyside derbies – only for the team to then flatline and go back to square one. It’s fair to say Silva’s debut campaign has been a mixed one, and a haul of 37 points, six less than his former club Watford, is an underwhelming one with nine matches of the season remaining. Is Silva’s position under threat? Merseyside football expert Lawrenson seems to think so, and is convinced the Portugese is skating on thin ice if they lose at the home of Newcastle, who have turned St James’ Park into a fortress of late, with a run of four consecutive league wins at home.