Exclusive: Jamie Carragher predicts Everton to be this season’s surprise package

Carra reckons Sean Dyche's side could get a top-half finish

With the Euros over, all footballing eyes have turned to the upcoming domestic season in the Premier League and English Football League.

Ahead of the new season, Jamie Carragher spoke to JOE on behalf of Sky Sports as part of its start of season football campaign, which brings together 92 passionate football fans from each team across the Premier League & EFL to share their hopes for the 2024/25 season.

Speaking to us about the importance of fans in English football, Carragher said: "We saw in Covid how important supporters are, so it's important that Sky have that connection, not just with the Premier League but with fans up and down the land across the 72 EFL clubs."

In terms of which set of supporters should have the most hope for this season, Carragher reckoned Arsenal fans should be optimistic about finally overhauling City at the top of the Premier League.

"I think there'll be an excitement at Arsenal and a belief they can win the league this year," he said.

"They came second a couple of years ago, last year they got closer. It feels like second now is almost a failure.

"So I think there'll be a buzz about Arsenal, thinking: 'We really believe we can win the league this season.'"

Despite this, Carragher still reckons it'll be sky blue ribbons on the Premier League trophy come next May.

"I still think City will win the league," he said. "But I think there'll be real atmosphere all season at Arsenal, thinking 'this could be our season.'"

It's not all about the title race though. Whether it's a team breaking into the top four or an underdog avoiding relegation, there's usually a team that bolts from the pack and shocks us.

And this season, Carra reckons it could be Everton who surprise a few, despite the club continuing to deal with off-field issues surrounding their takeover and ownership.

Putting Merseyside rivalries to one side, the Liverpool legend said not having the negativity of points deductions hanging over the club and keeping defender Jarrad Branthwaite could be a huge factor for the Toffees.

He continued: "I just think without the points deduction and the negativity... They sold Onana, but I think they wanted to, I don't think Sean Dyche was particularly fond of him. But they've still got Branthwaite there.

"If they keep Branthwaite, they've got Pickford, Calvert-Lewin up front, they've already made four or five signings. I think they could get close to 10th, 11th - the Crystal Palace position!"

So there you have it Everton fans - Jamie Carragher is backing you for a big season!

Who'd have thought it?

With the launch of Sky Sports+, fans can enjoy more football on Sky including all EFL teams at least 20 times a season. See fan stories from all 92 clubs in the Premier League & EFL by keeping an eye on Sky Sports social media channels ahead of the new season.