Jamie Carragher mocks Phil Neville’s bold Ross Barkley prediction as Everton playmaker is subbed at half-time

PHIL NEVILLE took over from brother Gary for punditry duties on Monday Night Football.

Suited and booted alongside Jamie Carragher, Neville drew upon his years of experience in the game to make some predictions for Everton’s trip to Sunderland.

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And the former Valencia coach used the stage to highlight a certain Ross Barkley.

The English playmaker was selected as Ronald Koeman’s No. 10 for the Premier League clash at the Stadium of Light.

And Neville, who also enjoyed a long spell at Goodison Park as a player, made it clear that Barkley was the man to watch on the pitch.

In fact, the 39-year-old – who has sung Barkley’s praises in the past – then went a step further by claiming the midfielder was on the path to greatness.

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But unfortunately for Neville, his prediction fell horribly short – it actually fell flat on its face.

Barkley was hooked at half-time in favour of Gerard Deulofeu, and the Spaniard made an immediate impact as Romelu Lukaku’s hat-trick within 11 minutes secured a 3-0 win for the Toffees.

Neville didn’t escape lightly either, with co-star Carragher cheekily highlighting the bold claim in a tweet just minutes after Barkley’s substitution.