'Absolute madness' - Micah Richards reacts to PL table with Everton named after Liverpool loss

Micah Richards has reacted to the chaotic race for European football in the Premier League, which has been blown wide open after Everton’s loss against Liverpool.

The Toffees were eighth before the 2-1 defeat on Sunday, but now sit 10th with Brentford, Bournemouth and Brighton all picking up points.

David Moyes’ side thought they had taken the lead when Iliman Ndiaye sent Hill Dickinson Stadium into raptures, but that was ruled out for offside before Mohamed Salah scored minutes later.

The Blues would fight back quickly in the second half, with Beto finding an equaliser, though hearts would be broken when Virgil van Dijk rose highest to score a late winner.

With just three points separating seven sides, the run-in is going to be crucial for Everton as they fight for their first European adventure since 2017.

Micah Richards amazed by Premier League standings

After a turbulent period fighting at the wrong end of the Premier League, Toffees fans would have snapped your hand off for a simple mid-table finish.

Instead, they find themselves in and amongst the European race, with the standings incredibly tight.

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, former defender Richards was amazed by just how tight things are.

“I’m just looking at the table now. It’s madness,” said Richards.

“Chelsea are on 48, Brentford on 48, Bournemouth on 48, Brighton on 47, Everton on 47, Sunderland on 46, Fulham on 45 and then Crystal Palace and Newcastle on 42.

“The table is absolute madness.”

Looking to get back to winning ways after the derby defeat, Moyes’ side have a chance to redeem themselves as they take on relegation-threatened West Ham at the London Stadium.

Everton missed an opportunity with derby defeat

As mentioned, a fight for Europe was in no way, shape or form expected this term, though the Toffees will be kicking themselves if they don’t make the most of the opportunity handed to them.

In matchweek 33 in particular, Everton had a big chance to make a continental statement, with Brentford’s draw with Fulham handing them the chance to climb up the league.

Combined with Chelsea’s loss to Manchester United, Everton could have ended the weekend as high as sixth, just two points behind Liverpool and the Champions League.

Instead, Moyes’ side now sit 10th, with Bournemouth and Brighton both climbing.

Though this is not going to be the last we hear of the continental battle, with there being too many sides involved for it to end as it currently is.

After missing an opportunity this weekend, Everton must get back to winning ways on Saturday if they are to keep hold of their ambitions.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.

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