Paul Merson praises Xavi Simons in Tottenham vs Nottingham Forest score prediction

Paul Merson has revealed whether or not he expects Tottenham Hotspur to build on their improved form with a victory over Nottingham Forest this weekend.

The atmosphere around the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was as toxic as it could possibly be a couple of weeks ago, as Spurs slumped to a 3-1 defeat against Crystal Palace.

However, things have changed very quickly, beginning when Igor Tudor’s team kept fighting to the very end at Anfield, which resulted in the collection of a much needed point.

This was followed by an even more impressive performance, as Tottenham defeated Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.

Still, Nottingham Forest have looked stronger recently as well, meaning Sunday’s clash should be a fascinating contest.

Paul Merson predicts a Tottenham victory vs Nottingham Forest

Arsenal legend Paul Merson never misses an opportunity to aim a dig at Spurs, but it seems he has been impressed by their past couple of displays.

Merson has been particularly impressed by Xavi Simons and Archie Gray, who were the two standout players during Tottenham’s midweek triumph.

He told Sportskeeda: “Tottenham were decent against Liverpool and played well in the second leg at home to Atletico. Spurs controlled that game well and were not cut open at the back like in the past.

“Xavi Simons worked hard and did well in the last game. Archie Gray was excellent too. Tottenham need these players to carry that form into this weekend because this is such a huge game coming up.”

Turning his attention to Tottenham’s next opponent, Merson continued: “Nottingham Forest are playing in the Europa League tonight. That tie against Midtjylland is at 0-0. I expect Forest to play their best team in that game and it’s also away from home.

“Tottenham fans will want to see fight from their team in this game. The fans will stick with the team, if they can give 100 per cent on the pitch. I remember it happened with Everton last season. The fans supported them and helped massively in the relegation battle.

“If this game was two or three games ago, I would have fancied Forest to win,” he added, “but having witnessed Spurs turn it around in the last couple of games, I have to back them. If Forest score first, it’s a different game. But I don’t think that will happen.”

Merson’s prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 Nottingham Forest

Spurs rarely keep clean sheets

It is interesting that Merson thinks Tottenham will not concede at the weekend, because even against Liverpool and Atleti there have been some defensive issues.

Spurs have gone nine consecutive matches without keeping a clean sheet and their most recent one in the Premier League happened on the first day of the year.

Perhaps Merson’s prediction will come and Tottenham will remain strong at the back all game. However, history suggests Forest are likely to land on the scoresheet.

Despite this, the North London club are looking increasingly better in attack and a clean sheet might not be required to wrap up three points anyway.

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