Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti has admitted city rivals Liverpool will win the Premier League but hopes it doesn't happen at Goodison Park.
If Manchester City were to lose another game between now and March 16 and the Reds kept their winning streak going, then they could be crowned champions just across Stanley Park.
The Toffees are in action on Saturday afternoon as they welcome Crystal Palace to Goodison, knowing a win could see them climb above Manchester United into seventh place.
"Liverpool is going to win the Premier League, I just hope not at Goodison Park," Ancelotti said.
"Why at Goodison Park? There are a lot of stadiums!"
Palace come to Merseyside having not won in six games, and manager Roy Hodgson is the bookies' favourite to be the next Premier League manager sacked from his job.
Ancelotti, however, has the greatest of respect for his opposite number and the London side.
"It's a fantastic opportunity for us to climb up the table," the Italian said. "Then we have a holiday. The players need rest. The squad is in good condition, with just one injury.
*Every word Carlo Ancelotti said in his Everton press conference
"It will be a difficult game. [They have] a manager who has a lot of experience and players with a lot of quality. With the support from our stadium, we can get the three points.
“We have a good relationship. He has a lot of experience. I’m happy to meet him tomorrow.
“He’s doing a good job like he has done all of his career. Everyone has a good memory of him.”
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