EFL Cup Quarter-Finals: Toffees To Continue Form Under Ferguson

Aston Villa v Liverpool

Liverpool take on Mexican side Monterrey in the FIFA World Club semi-final in Qatar on Wednesday and Jurgen Klopp’s first-team squad have travelled to the middle east leaving Under-23 boss Neil Critchley in charge of a young side who take on Aston Villa on Tuesday.

Villa have lost their last three league games, but this is a game they really ought to win against an inexperienced Reds’ side. A place in the last four of a major competition is at stake, however, and I expect Liverpool to showcase their young talent and play their part in what promises to be an open and entertaining clash.

Tip: Villa to win and both teams to score

Everton v Leicester City

Everton are unbeaten in two games under caretaker manager Duncan Ferguson and, even though they are down to the bare bones with injuries, I believe they will edge out Leicester City at Goodison on Wednesday.

The Foxes eight-game winning league run ended with a disappointing draw at home to Norwich at the weekend and I believe this resurgent Everton side will make it through to the last four.

Tip: Everton to win

Oxford United v Manchester City

City were back to their brilliant best when they outclassed Arsenal at the Emirates on Sunday and it is hard to see how League One Oxford United can stop the holders at the Kassam Stadium.

The U’s currently sit 13 points behind leaders Wycombe in the League One table and have failed to score in their last three games. City will make changes for the tie given Leicester City are the visitors to the Emirates at the weekend, but whatever side Pep Guardiola picks is likely to have far too much quality for Oxford.

Tip: City to win to nil

Manchester United v Colchester United

Colchester United are hopeful of taking at least 7,000 fans to Old Trafford midweek, but I can’t see them having too much to cheer although it promises to be a great occasion for all involved at the club.

The U’s have already knocked out Premier League sides Crystal Palace and Spurs – both on penalties – on their way to the last eight, but I would be surprised if the League 2 side gave Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side too much to worry about and expect the hosts to make serene progress through to the semi-finals.

Tip: United -2 on the handicap