Week 23 EPL Preview and Predictions

Via @Famousseyi

The Premier League is back after a short hiatus which saw teams participate in England’s domestic cup competitions which served up lots of excitement as the magic of the FA cup [especially] continues to throw up upsets.

The last round of fixtures in the league saw Chelsea maintain their hold in first place with a five-nil demolition of Swansea, while Arsenal defeated Man City to keep pace with teams above them as the result saw City move five points adrift of the league leaders. There was slight reshuffling in the middle of the table while there are no changes in the lower end as the teams in the drop zone all lost their respective fixtures.

Saturday 31st January

Hull Vs Newcastle
Time – 13:45
Venue – KC stadium

Both teams have stuttered in recent weeks but its Hull who needs redemption more than Newcastle based on their position on the league table.

Hull is currently faced with a couple of problems which has put them in a very difficult position. They have key players out on the sidelines with injury and they find it difficult to find the back of the net. They need to dig deep into their squad to find a “messiah” who would lead them out of their present predicament.

Newcastle is yet to win a game under caretaker manager John Carver whose position is guaranteed till the end of the season. The manager needs a win to boost the morale of the team and to assert his authority on his players.

A win would be a morale booster for both sides.

PREDICTION: Hull 2 Newcastle 1

Crystal Palace Vs Everton
Time – 16:00
Venue – Selhurst Park

Both teams are level on point going into this fixture.

Crystal Palace have been on a rise since the emergence of Alan Pardew as their manager and they have shown resilience to come back and win games. This new found self-belief would definitely be an important tool in their battle for survival.

Everton in contrast to their opposition in this fixture are on a decline as they have struggled to win games. The team has been accused of holding possession without real intent. The team is a striker short at the moment with the departure of Samuel Eto’o and it remains to be seen maybe Lukaku would come to their rescue.

It’s likely going to be a tough encounter.

PREDICTION: Palace 2 Everton 1

Liverpool Vs West ham
Time – 16:00
Venue – Anfield

Both sides are separated by a spot and a point on the league table. They are both on a resurgence and in a race for at least a fourth place finish.

Liverpool has shown in recent weeks that they are beginning to emerge as a compact unit and looking as menacing as they were last season, with Raheem Sterling flourishing in a central position and the team adapting to playing a 3-5-2 formation. They would likely be with Daniel Sturridge who is back in training after a long injury lay off.

West ham have played entertaining football this season with rewards to show for it. They lie in 7th place and they have their attacking players setting fire on all cylinders. They would be hoping to consolidate their position with a win in this fixture.

It’s likely going to be an entertaining encounter.

PREDICTION: Liverpool 3 West Ham 1

Manchester United Vs Leicester city
Time – 16:00
Venue – Old Trafford

The two teams are miles apart on the league table but the two teams have clashed earlier in the season with Leicester the triumphant of the two sides

Manchester united have hit a rough patch in recent weeks as they have struggled to get a positive result. LVG is under pressure from the fans to drop his preferred 3-5-2 formation in favour of 4-4-2 which has produced positive results. They have no real injury concerns and they would be hoping to avenge a first leg loss away from home.

Leicester are rock bottom on the league table and they have struggled to win games since their famous victory over the red devils in the reverse fixture. They would be hoping to do the double over United and keep tabs with the teams above them in their fight to beat the drop.

The first goal would likely set the tone for the game.

PREDICTION: Man United 2 Leicester 0

Stoke Vs QPR
Time – 16:00
Venue – Britannia stadium

Both teams are separated by ten points but QPR is the most vulnerable of the two sides due to their standing on the league table.

Stoke have played a pretty decent brand of football this season and they are placed just in the middle of the league table. They would however be without influential winger Bojan who have been ruled out for the rest of the season with an injury. They would however be hoping that the Nigerian duo of Victor Moses and Osaze Odemwingie would be back from injury anytime soon to inspire the team.

QPR have struggled away from home as they haven’t picked up any point on the road. This is a trend they would be hoping to reverse in order to turn their fortunes around for good. They would be relying on Charlie Austin to lead the lines and make their mark away from home.

This should be a fairly entertaining encounter

PREDICTION: Stoke 2 QPR 0

Sunderland Vs Burnley
Time – 16:00
Venue – Stadium of light

This is a battle for survival and the third in a row for Burnley who have played against fellow struggling teams in recent weeks. The two teams are both level on points and a win for either side is an advantage over the other.

Sunderland have had more draws than wins this season and they are fighting for survival. The arrival of Jermaine Defoe has given them a boost up front as defence alone does not win games.

Burnley have shown real guile to stay above the drop zone after a tough start to the season. They have shown resilience to earn points from a losing position and they have the self-belief to stay and play in the top flight come next season as their key players continue to deliver for them when needed to rise up to the occasion.

West Brom Vs Tottenham
Time – 16:00
Venue – The Hawthorns

The two sides are on different ends of the table and are both playing well at the moment.

West Brom have had a new lease of life since the arrival of tony Pulis whose appointment have given them a self-belief that they would beat the drop. They are yet to lose a game under the new manager and their morale is high for this fixture.

Spurs have had mixed results in recent weeks but they are a balanced side playing good football. They have within their ranks players such as Harry Kane and Christian Erikssen who have popped up to score crucial goals and they would be relied upon again to get a positive result.

It’s likely going to be a fairly entertaining encounter.

PREDICTION: West Brom 1 Tottenham 1

Chelsea Vs Manchester city
Time – 18:30
Venue – Stamford Bridge

This is unarguably the biggest fixture in English football this weekend and a potential title decider as the outcome of this match may likely determine who wins the premier league this season. This fixture can be dubbed a final before final. Chelsea would be gunning for a win which would put them eight points clear of their closest challenger.

Chelsea were stunned in the FA cup by Bradford and they have recovered with a win over Liverpool which put them in the league cup finals. They have a few injuries to deal with but they would still be a hard nut to crack on this occasion as they are aware that this fixture is a potential title decider.

Manchester city have lost two games in a row and would be hoping to avoid a third which would potentially cost them a chance to win the premier league back to back as they would be eight points adrift of the league leaders. They would be without Yaya Toure who is representing his country at the African cup of nations. Another defeat here would definitely lead to questions been asked of their manager as their chance to win a trophy have been narrowed down to just the champions league.

This fixture would likely be determined by the narrowest of margins and a moment of brilliance.

PREDICTION: Chelsea 2 Man City 2

Sunday February 1st

Arsenal Vs Aston Villa
Time – 14:30
Venue – Emirates Stadium

Both teams have had their fair share of criticism so far this season with arsenal the better of the two sides.

Arsenal have had a mixed season so far with momentary flashes of brilliance which has been spearheaded by Alexis Sanchez. They are having a good run at the moment and they would want to keep the sort of form they are on at the moment running all season long in order to guarantee a chance to play in the Champions league come next season.

Aston Villa’s excellent start to the season has been over shadowed by a poor run of form which has left them vulnerable to be a potential candidate for the drop. They have a boost with their FA cup win and they would be hoping to build on that

The first goal would likely determine the flow of the game.

PREDICTION: Arsenal 3 Aston Villa 1

Southampton Vs Swansea
Time – 17:00
Venue – St. Mary’s stadium

Southampton are on a good run of form and are on course for a champions league spot. They would be hoping to beat a fellow challenger and consolidate their position on the league table.

Swansea are on a poor run of form as they are without a win in recent weeks. They need to dig deep to get a win in this fixture as they need to get a replacement for Wilfred Bony to lead them in attack.

The game could go either way.

PREDICTION: Southampton 2 Swansea 1

That’s it for this weekend’s round of Premier League matches.

What’s your opinion on my Analysis? And more particularly, if you have any reservations regarding my Predictions, do let me know by making use of the comments box below. You can use this easy copy and paste summary to write your own predictions and share it with other readers in the comments section.

Hull Vs Newcastle
Crystal Palace Vs Everton
Liverpool Vs West ham
Manchester United Vs Leicester city
Stoke Vs QPR
Sunderland Vs Burnley
West Brom Vs Tottenham
Chelsea Vs Manchester city
Arsenal Vs Aston Villa
Southampton Vs Swansea

Week 21 EPL Preview and Predictions

Via @Famousseyi

The second half of the season has kicked off after the hectic festive schedule, which ushered in the FA cup for teams in the top flight. It has also ushered in new managers for teams such as West Brom and Crystal Palace who succumbed firmly to the urge to turn their fortune around and remain in the elite division come next season.

The last round of fixtures had a couple of entertaining matches as Chelsea were defeated by Tottenham, while Manchester City won to draw level on points with Chelsea. Southampton defeated Arsenal and moved into fourth place. United could only salvage a draw against Stoke to maintain third position. Hull moved out of the relegation spot with a win over Everton, while Palace replaced them there after getting a draw in their own fixture.

Here is a cursory look at the matches going down this weekend, with some teams missing key players due to their participation in the African cup of nations in Equatorial Guinea as well as the Asian cup in Australia. Its however a chance for those playing second fiddle to stake a claim for a starting berth.

Saturday 10th January

Sunderland Vs Liverpool
Time – 13:45
Venue – Stadium of Light

Its surprising that both teams are just separated by nine points, as both teams were poles apart at this stage last season.

Sunderland is a team that is a work in progress, and they have been undone by inconsistent performances so far. They would surely have felt undone in their last fixture by a Frank lampard goal that denied them a draw after fighting back from two goals down. They need to play well on a consistent basis and take their chances in front of goal.

Liverpool’s season can’t get any worse than it has been. They were sloppy to let go a two-goal lead against Leceister and it’s not the sort of result they can be happy with. They would surely be hoping to get a win in this fixture under the leadership of Steven Gerrard who showed them what they would be missing at the end of the season as he inspired them to a win in their FA cup tie over Wimbledon.

The first goal could determine the flow of the game

PREDICTION: Sunderland 1 Liverpool 2

Burnley Vs QPR
Time – 16:00
Venue – Turf moor

This fixture is clearly a battle for survival with both teams languishing in the lower echelon of the league table. A win for either side is a potential advantage over the other come May when the season comes to an end.

Burnley have shown their resilience over the past weeks as they salvaged a draw against City and Newcastle. Their resolve would be further tested as manager Sean Dyche has an injury crisis to deal with. The team can bank on Sam Vokes and Danny Ings to lead the team to victory.

QPR’s away form has been their achilles heel this season and they would be hoping to reverse the trend. The advantage they would get by getting a win in this fixture could buoy them to earn maximum points. They would be relying on the goal(s) of Austin to prevail in this fixture.

The desire to out do each other and get an edge over the other could make for an entertaining encounter.

PREDICTION: Burnley 1 QPR 0

Chelsea Vs Newcastle
Time – 16:00
Venue – Stamford Bridge

This is a clash between a wounded chelsea team and a Newcastle team hoping to get direction under a caretaker manager.

The blues would be hoping to return to winning ways after losing to Tottenham in their last league fixture. Maintaining their hold on the top of the log would be their top priority at the moment as they can’t afford further slip up which would see them have to play catch up with City.

Newcastle is still yet to get a definite rhythm under their caretaker manager, who would be hoping to consolidate his position with a huge and morale boosting win. The team need to stay resolute in defense if they are to get at least a point in this fixture.

Can Newcastle record a double over the blues? Time would tell.

PREDICTION: Chelsea 2 Newcastle 1

Everton Vs Manchester City
Time – 16:00
Venue – Goodison Park

This fixture has pitched together a stuttering Everton side and a high flying City team.

Everton have failed to get the midas touch in the league as they have been brilliant in the Europe. The team need a string of positive results to avoid been dragged into a relegation scrap. They have the right personnel to excel but they would have to be at their best to give the team a lift.

Manchester City have shown they have the pedigree to be crowned champions again as they have got unlikely wins when it didn’t look possible. It however remains to be seen how well they would cope in the absence of Yaya Toure and their senior strikers. Pellegrini however has a boost from Frank Lampard who is going to be with them till the end of the season.

This should be an entertaining encounter if the toffees play to their full potentials.

PREDICTION: Everton 2 Man. City 2

Leicester Vs Aston Villa
Time – 16:00
Venue – King power stadium

Both teams could only get a draw in their last premier league fixture. Which one of them can get a win in this fixture?

Leicester are currently languishing at the bottom of the league table and they are winless in twelve consecutive fixtures. They showed against liverpool that they have the guts to fight but they can’t afford a defeat here as it would keep them further adrift of teams in the lower end of the table.

Aston Villa have earned a draw in two consecutive fixtures and a loss or draw in this fixture would bring them further down the table. They need to take their chances in front of goal and Benteke would be relied upon to get the goal.

It should be a fairly entertaining encounter

PREDICTION: Leicester 2 Aston villa 1

Swansea Vs West Ham
Time – 16:00
Venue – Liberty Stadium

Both teams are separated by three points and are in competition for a chance to play in Europe next season.

Swansea have been playing fairly well in recent weeks but it remains to be seen how well they can cope without Bony whose goals have earned them vital points this season. Maybe it’s Gomis’ time to shine.

West Ham have hit a bit of a rough patch in recent weeks, as they are yet to record victory in their last four league fixtures. This is a perfect opportunity to return to winning ways against a fierce rival as they have just a few injured players and can cope well without them.

Prediction: Swansea 2 West Ham 1

West Brom Vs Hull
Time – 16:00
Venue – The hawthorns

The two sides are separated by a point and this fixture has all the makings of a battle for survival with both teams just hovering above the drop zone.

West Brom now have renewed hope having appointed Tony Pulis as manager. His reputation precedes him as he has the magic wand to turn the fortunes of team around when it comes to staying in the top flight. The team got a morale boosting win in the FA cup and they would be hoping to play in such ruthless manner this weekend.

Hull has so far been plagued by inconsistent performances and a loss in this fixture might just put them back in the drop zone. They need to stay disciplined at the back and make their opportunities count in front of goal.

The first goal could determine the flow of the game

PREDICTION: West Brom 2 Hull 1

Crystal Palace Vs Tottenham
Time – 18:30
Venue – Selhurst Park

Both teams are at different ends of the table, with Tottenham battling for a chance to play in Europe, while Palace is fighting for their league survival.

Palace would be hoping for a turn around of their fortunes having appointed Pardew as their new manager. The team would be without influential winger Yannick Bolaise who would be playing at the African cup of nations, but its also an opportunity for the new manager to get other players to perform well under his tutelage.

Tottenham have been on top form in recent weeks with a string of victories. They showed real guile against Chelsea and they would be carrying that momentum into this fixture. Harry Kane is surely a player they would be banking on alongside Erikssen who can pop up to get crucial goals.

It should be an entertaining encounter

PREDICTION: Palace 2 Tottenham 2

Sunday 11th January

Arsenal Vs Stoke
Time – 14:30
Venue – Emirates stadium

This is a fixture which could shape up to be an entertaining encounter, as it has always been in recent years.

Arsenal were last weekend defeated by Southampton who replaced them in fourth position. They would be hoping to return to winning ways against a stubborn Stoke team who has always posed a lot of threat to them in previous fixtures. Alexis Sanchez and Danny Welbeck would be relied upon to lead the lines.

Stoke City have not really fared well on their travels but the urge to out do the gunners would be enough motivation for them to earn victory. Bojan and Crouch would be available to terrorize the Arsenal defense but they would also need to stay disciplined in defense themselves.

This would likely be a keenly contested fixture which could be determined by the narrowest of margins

PREDICTION: Arsenal 3 Stoke 2

Manchester United Vs Southampton
Time – 17:00
Venue – Old Trafford.

Both teams are separated by just a spot and a point on the league table. There will be rewards, as well as consequences depending on who emerges as victors and who is vanquished.

Manchester United have maintained third position for a while now and a defeat in this fixture will see them relinquish that position. They have struggled with the same issues all season, ranging from a leaky defence to injury amongst others. Most of their key players are fit and they would be hoping to do the double over a good saints team.

Southampton have rediscovered the sort of form that put them in the top half of the table. They would be hoping to avenge their first leg loss to the red devils and stake their claim as a genuine contender for a champions league spot come May. They however need to avoid giving away goal(s) to their opposition and take their chances when they come.

It has the potential to be an exciting encounter.

PREDICTION: Man. United 3 Southampton 1

That’s it for this weekend’s round of Premier League matches.

What’s your opinion on my Analysis? And more particularly, if you have any reservations regarding my Predictions, do let me know by making use of the comments box below. You can use this easy copy and paste summary to write your own predictions and share it with other readers in the comments section.

Sunderland vs Liverpool
Burnley vs Queens Park Rangers
Chelsea vs Newcastle United
Everton vs Manchester City
Leicester City vs Aston Villa
Swansea City vs West Ham United
West Bromwich Albion vs Hull City
Crystal Palace vs Tottenham Hotspur
Arsenal vs Stoke City
Manchester United vs Southampton

WEEK 18: ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW AND PREDICTIONS

Via @Famousseyi

The last round of fixtures in the Premier League saw Chelsea maintain their hold on the top of the league table with a win over Stoke, with Manchester City still three points adrift in second place after thrashing Crystal Palace. United could only salvage a draw against Villa while West ham consolidated their hold in fourth place with a win.

Southampton returned to winning ways against an out of sorts Everton team while Liverpool and Arsenal settled for a draw in their fixture. QPR’s win brings them out of the relegation spot with Burnley replacing them there, while Leicester and Hull lost in their respective matches to remain in the drop zone.

As we all would be enjoying over the festive period, Premier league teams would be doing battle on the pitch as they have no luxury of a winter break. Here is a cursory look at the fixtures that would be taking place this weekend.

Friday 26th December

Chelsea Vs West Ham
Time – 13:45
Venue – Stamford Bridge

Both teams are currently separated by eleven points but a victory for either side would surely change the configuration of the top half of the league table, in relation to the results of other teams in same region.

The Blues would be hoping to consolidate their position on the league table with another victory. They have shown how disciplined they can be in defence and how potent in attack they can be [as well] and are as such a balanced side. They however need to thread with caution against an attack-minded Hammers team. Eden Hazard is a doubt for this fixture after picking up what looks like an ankle injury against Stoke.

West Ham is a team that is daring to dream at the moment. A victory in this fixture would surely validate that dream. They have an aerial threat which would be a handful for the Chelsea defence. They have an array of attacking options to choose from, but they would also need to stay resolute in defence to gain something from this fixture.

This game could be won and lost in midfield and could be settled by a moment of brilliance.

PREDICTION: Chelsea 2 West ham 1

Burnley Vs Liverpool
Time – 16:00
Venue – Turf moor

Even though Burnley is in d drop zone, both sides are separated by seven points. A win for either side is a step towards redemption.

Burnley’s resilience would be tested once again in this match as their fixtures in the festive period are against top oppositions. They need to stay disciplined at the back and take the game to their opponent who seems not to be too coordinated in defence.

Liverpool last weekend showed a glimpse of their old self which was why they were almost champions in May. Brendan Rodgers has talked about how resurgent the team is at the moment and a victory in this match would be a boost for them provided they take their chances in front of goal.

The approach of both sides to games this season makes it difficult to know which side would likely clinch victory.

PREDICTION: Burnley 2 Liverpool 2

Crystal Palace Vs Southampton
Time – 16:00
Venue – Selhurst park

Both teams have in recent weeks struggled to assert their authority on games.

Palace is yet to win in as many as eleven games and is just hovering above the relegation spot. They need a bit of luck alongside their good showing on the field to earn victory. They need their key players to rise up to the occasion and win games to boost their morale.

Southampton got over their recent nosedive with an emphatic victory over Everton. This fixture is a tricky one and it’s going to be a test of their resolve. They have no real injury concerns and are well rested for this match.

It should be a fairly entertaining encounter.

PREDICTION: Palace 2 Southampton 1

Everton Vs Stoke
Time – 16:00
Venue – Goddison park

Both teams lost their last fixture, and the two sides have been inconsistent since the start of the season. So it’s no surprise that they are both separated by two points.

Everton has not played to their full potential so far this season and it may be partly due to hangover from their European adventures. They are a balanced side which can still fight for a place in the top half of the table if they play to their full potentials, with young players such as Romelu Lukaku and Ross Barkley in their ranks.

Stoke has had high and low moments so far this season with victories over Manchester city and Arsenal. They however need quality in midfield to shield the defence and also launch attacks.

The inconsistent form of both teams makes it difficult to know the side that holds the advantage.

PREDICTION: Everton 2 Stoke 0

Leicester Vs Tottenham
Time – 16:00
Venue – King power stadium

This is a clash between a struggling side and a team on the rebound.

Leicester city has not won a league game since September. Their morale is as its lowest ebb and they have gifted some of their oppositions victory with self inflicted errors and lack of composure in front of goal. Ulloa needs to rediscover his early season form in their bid to survive the drop.

Spurs have been able to string together consecutive victories in the premier league and they seem to have found consistency alongside a winning formula which has been made possible with excellent performances from players such as Erik Lamela, Eriksen and Harry Kane.

The momentum is clearly with Spurs but can they turn it to a win at the King Power stadium?

PREDICTION: Leicester 1 Tottenham 0

Manchester United Vs Newcastle United
Time – 16:00
Venue – Old Trafford

The two teams have in recent weeks been in the spot light for spearheading redemptions to their poor start to the season with that of the Magpies stalling in their last two league fixtures.
The Red devils have the confidence, fighting spirit and self belief of old back in their camp. LVG seem to have found a winning formula despite the fact that some of his players have to play out of position due to injuries to other players. They have shown how much of an attacking threat they can be but they need a perfect balance in defence to compliment the good works of De Gea.

Newcastle would feel undone after losing the Tyne-wear dear courtesy of a dying minute goal. They have lost two consecutive games and this fixture would be a test of their will power. They have a few injuries to deal with but they would likely be a hard nut to crack for United if they stay resolute in defence.

The first goal would likely determine the outcome of this match.

PREDICTION: Man united 2 Newcastle 2

Sunderland Vs Hull
Time – 16:00
Venue – Stadium of light

Both teams head into this fixture on different run of forms. Sunderland is surely the better of the two sides based on their positions on the log.

Sunderland reigned supreme in the Tyne-wear derby and they would be hoping to consolidate on the performance that earned them the Victory. The black cats still need a bit of bite in attack to compliment their defensive resoluteness as that alone does not guarantee victory.

Hull is obviously on a bad run of form and their position on the league table reflects that. They have had the same problem all season which is having to chase games from a losing position. They need to reverse this trend in order to improve their standing on the log.

One side seems more fired up than the other.

PREDICTION: Sunderland 2 Hull 1

Swansea Vs Aston Villa
Time – 16:00
Venue – Liberty stadium

The two teams are precariously placed in the middle of the table which is constantly changing as the weeks roll by.

Swansea are playing well at the moment barring few inconsistent displays which has made them lose points. They are reliant on goals from Wilfred Bony at the moment and he would be hoping to lead the team to victory once again.

Aston Villa is currently looking like the team they were when the season started as they have steadily moved back up the league table. The core of their midfield is solid and Benteke is feeling back to his best and should be a handful for the Swans defence.

The game could go either way.

PREDICTION: Aston Villa 1 Swansea 1

West Brom Vs Manchester City
Time – 16:00
Venue – The Hawthorns

Both teams are poles apart on the league table and are both fighting in the various ends of the table where they are placed.

West Brom have been out of sorts in recent weeks and they find it increasingly difficult to maintain their intensity mid way through matches. They have also been undone by lack of goals from their strikers, while the defence has not been consistent. They would surely come under pressure in this match and they should be well prepared to outwit their opposition.

Manchester city is currently on a streak at the moment, and the goals have been coming even in the absence of their strikers. They are the clear favourites to overcome in this fixture but they need to be cautious as complacency could cost them points.

Based on recent form, City should over run their opposition.

PREDICTION: West Brom 1 Man City 3

Arsenal Vs QPR
Time – 18:30
Venue – Emirates stadium

This is a battle between two London neighbours who are at two opposite ends of the table.

The gunners are stepping up in their chase to claim their “traditional” fourth place trophy with good showings in their recent matches and would surely feel undone by Liverpool’s late equalizer which show they still crack under intense pressure with a frail defensive line. They would be hoping to set fire on all cylinders against QPR in order to gain maximum points. They have been boosted by the return of Oliver Giroud from injury as his goals and overall contribution to the team has lifted them.

QPR would still be reeling in the ecstasy of overcoming West Brom with Charlie Austin their target man running the show with a hat trick. Their performance away from home has been nothing to write home about but they would surely be hoping for a change in their fortunes in this fixture.

The gunners are clear favourites to nick this if they play up to expectation.

PREDICTION: Arsenal 4 QPR 0

That’s it for this weekend’s round of Premier League matches.

What’s your opinion on my Analysis? And more particularly, if you have any reservations regarding my Predictions, do let me know by making use of the comments box below. You can use this easy copy and paste summary to write your own predictions and share it with other readers in the comments section.

Chelsea vs West Ham United
Burnley vs Liverpool
Crystal Palace vs Southampton
Everton vs Stoke City
Leicester City vs Tottenham Hotspur
Manchester United vs Newcastle United
Sunderland vs Hull City
Swansea City vs Aston Villa
West Bromwich Albion vs Manchester City
Arsenal vs Queens Park Rangers

Week 6 EPL Preview and Predictions

Matches in the Premier League last weekend were agog with unpredictable outcomes and lots of excitement.

Leicester City came from behind to stun Manchester United 5-3 after trailing them, West Ham ensured Liverpool were defeated for the third time this season with a 3-1 result. Southampton moved to second place on the log with victory over Swansea and Aston Villa moved to third place having lost to Arsenal.

In other matches, Crystal palace and West Brom both won for the first time this season and they did so away from home at Goodison Park and White Hart Lane respectively.

Papiss Cisse’s brace ensured Newcastle rescued a point while Lampard’s goal for Manchester City against former club Chelsea ensured parity between both clubs.

The capital one cup took centre stage in mid- week and there were winners as well as losers, whose participation in the competition is now limited to watching on their TV screens.

So it’s back to the real business of Premier League football as this is another round awash with intriguing ties – top of which are two derbies – one at Anfield and the other at the Emirates. Let’s get stuck into all matches, shall we?

Saturday 27th September

Liverpool Vs Everton
Venue- Anfield
Kick off time — 12:45

The Merseyside derby is here again and bragging rights are up for grabs with both sides having lost their matches last weekend. Everton would also be hoping to revenge their four – nil thrashing in the corresponding fixture last season.

Brendan Rogers is yet to find a consistent and winning formula like he did last season with Liverpool who are now hunting for trophies on four fronts, with squad rotation and integration of new players hampering their performances.

Liverpool would be without the injured Daniel Sturridge, and fatigue may be an issue for the first team players who took part in the capital one cup match which rolled over into extra time.

Everton could be said to have been affected by an Europa league hang over against Palace as they couldn’t maintain the pace with which they began the game. The only injury concern is that of Ross Barkley, and a regrouped Toffees team would also inevitably stake their claim for bragging rights over their town neighbours and also hope to return to winning ways after losing their capital one cup tie in mid-week to Swansea.

Current form hardly counts when it comes to derby matches. The first goal would be key in this fixture and victory can go either way.

PREDICTION: Liverpool 2-2 Everton

Chelsea Vs Aston Villa
Venue- Stamford Bridge
Kick off time — 15:00

Chelsea were haunted last weekend by club legend Frank Lampard who salvaged a draw for Manchester city while Aston Villa lost to Arsenal by conceding three goals in the space of four minutes.

Chelsea have no injury concern as they head into this fixture. They should be back into their full attacking mode, with the defence showing that they can withstand pressure from top opposition as they showed against Manchester City. After being shut out last week, Diego Costa would hope to resume his scoring spree against the Villains.

Aston villa played without a few of their key players last week having being hit by a virus. They would hopefully be back for this fixture, alongside Christian Benteke who has been out with injury since April, but Villa need to maintain the sort of defensive discipline that has put them in the top half of the table, as momentary lapse in concentration can work against them against a top quality opposition like Chelsea.

Chelsea have a good record against Villa while playing at the Stamford Bridge, but Villa would likely be a hard nut to crack.

PREDICTION: Chelsea 2-0 Aston Villa

Crystal Palace Vs Leicester city
Venue- Selhurst Park
Kick off time– 15:00

Both sides won their matches last week and they would be hoping to keep the form going.

Crystal Palace defeated a somewhat fatigued Everton side, and that could likely be an issue for them too as they were forced into extra-time in the Capital One cup. They are a technically disciplined side with self belief under new manager Neil Warnock and this could see them through once again in this fixture.

Leicester City has shown once again that they are no pushovers and want to remain in the top flight. They are a technically balanced side with Wes Morgan in the heart of the defence. Their attack also boasts of James Vardy who can exploit defenders with pace and Ulloa who is their leading goal scorer.

Leicester is well rested for this fixture and it could give them an edge.

PREDICTION: Crystal palace 1-2 Leicester

Hull City Vs Manchester City
Venue- KC stadium
Kick off time– 15:00

The two sides were held to draws last week and both would be hoping to get maximum points this weekend.

Hull would be ruing two lost points last week as they lost a two-goal lead to Newcastle. Steve Bruce, post-match said it felt like a loss as they committed errors in defence. They would need to raise their game in defence as they would be facing a lethal Manchester City side and there would be little room for error if they are to gain point(s) in this fixture.

Manchester City returned to winning ways in the Capital One Cup as they tore apart Sheffield Wednesday by seven goals to nil. They would be hoping to repeat the same sort of attacking approach. City now has two strong men in the heart of their defence (Kompany and Mangala) and it would take a bit of hard work to get past them

It should be a fairly contested fixture.

PREDICTION: Hull 1 Man city 3

Manchester United Vs West Ham
Venue- Old Trafford
Kick Off time — 15:00

This is a fixture between a victor and a vanquished from last weekend. Manchester United would be seeking redemption while West Ham would be seeking to consolidate on their victory over Liverpool

United is yet to strike a balance between its defence and attack. They boast of having some of the best attacking players in the premier league but they obviously lack a defence leader. Jones and Evans would be missing in this fixture and Van Gaal would likely have to sacrifice of his attacking players to bring in an extra defensive midfielder to partner Daley Blind and provide enough shield for the defence amid speculations that Michael Carrick would be deployed to play in central defence.

West Ham has played a pretty decent brand of football this season and they have been rewarded for it so far with seven points. They have been playing well with influence from players like Mark Noble who sits deep in the midfield and Stewart Downing who has recently found his old form and has been a supply line for the attack.

This is another fixture where the united defence would face another litmus test while the attack would also do its bit against a resilient West Ham defence

PREDICTION: Man United 2-2 West Ham

Southampton Vs QPR
Venue- St. Mary’s Stadium
Kick off time– 15:00

Southampton is setting fire on all cylinders right now with QPR striving to survive

Southampton has so far moved past the doom predicted for it before the start of the season as Ronald Koeman’s side keep improving week after week. The team is well rounded and the core of the team is gradually emerging with players such as Nathaniel Clyne who was on the fringes last season is now one of the back bone of the defence

QPR is yet to find a perfect rhythm but showed resilience to fight and salvaged a draw against stoke last week. They would be without the injured Sandro and Kranjcar would likely be called upon to replace him.

Based on current form, Southampton should breeze past QPR who has more tendency to defend than to attack.

PREDICTION: Southampton 3-0 QPR

Sunderland Vs Swansea
Venue- Stadium of Light
Kick off time– 15:00

Both sides would be going into this fixture on different run of forms with Swansea seemingly more fired up than a Sunderland side which is yet to win a game this season.

Sunderland are yet to pick a good rhythm so far even though they have shown flashes of brilliance. Key players such as Adam Johnson, Stephen Fletcher, Lee Catermole and co need to rise up to the occasion because a defeat or draw in this fixture won’t do their morale any good and would likely put them in a race for premier league survival as it transpired last season.

After losing to the Saints last week, Swansea bounced back with a win in the capital one cup against Everton and would be hoping to return back to winning ways in the Premier League after two defeats in a row. Nathan Dyer would be expected to lead the attack alongside influential midfielder Sigurdsson in the absence of Wilfred Bony who is suspended.

Sunderland have always been let down by their defensive errors and momentary loss in concentration. A fast attacking Swansea team would likely take them apart but I fancy the Black Cats to get their first win of the season in this match.

PREDICTION: Sunderland 2-1 Swansea

Arsenal Vs Tottenham
Venue- Emirates Stadium
Kick off time– 17:30

This is a North London derby which has brought excitement in times past and this weekend’s shouldn’t be any different.

Arsenal have been inconsistent in recent weeks but they would want to stake a claim to being the best team in the northern part of London. They would be without Oliver Giroud whose lone strike separated the two sides in this fixture last season. The question on the mind of the fans is whether Ozil would play in his favoured number 10 position or on the left flank.

Spurs would be gutted to have lost at home to West Brom last week but would be hoping to bounce back with a victory at the Emirates, as well as bragging rights over their London neighbours. Lamela and Eriksson would be important in midfield while Emmanuel Adebayor should be leading the attack against his former team.

This is likely going to be a gruelling contest even though Spurs have a poor record at the Emirates.

PREDICTION: Arsenal 2-2 Tottenham

Sunday 28th September

West Brom Vs Burnley
Venue- The Hawthorns
Kick off time– 16:00

This is a bottom of the table clash and a victory for either side is likely going to be an advantage over the other come end of season.

West Brom got their first win of the season away from home last week and fought back to claim victory in the capital one cup in mid-week. They are highly motivated at the moment and would hope to keep the momentum going. Joleon Lescott had a fantastic debut against spurs and he would hopefully continue that way.

Burnley is yet to win this season and they have only scored once so far. A defeat here would bring up issues of their survival in the top flight even though manager Sean Dyche says it’s still early to talk about their survival. They need to take their chances in front of goal if they have to win.

Even though it’s still early days in the season, this is a fight for survival for both sides

PREDICTION: West Brom 1-0 Burnley

Monday 29th September

Stoke Vs Newcastle
Venue- Britannia Stadium
Kick off time– 20:00

Stoke have played well so far but they have been largely unlucky to be losing points while Newcastle are yet to win and manager Alan Pardew is still wanted out by the fans.

Stoke are playing well on the counter attack but they have been wasteful in front of goal. They would rely on the energetic Victor Moses and his perfect combination with Peter Crouch to lead the team to victory.

Newcastle showed what a resilient team they can be against Hull and what they can achieve if their fans get behind them. They are yet to win this season but the team is showing glimpses of revival as demonstrated in their capital one cup victory in mid-week.

Stoke have not been impressive at home this season, while Newcastle is yet to find any sort of rhythm. This is likely going to be a physical encounter which could go either way

PREDICTION: Stoke 2 Newcastle 1

That’s it for this weekend’s round of Premier League matches.

What’s your opinion on my Analysis? And more particularly, if you have any reservations regarding my Predictions, do let me know by making use of the comments box below. You can use this easy copy and paste summary to write your own predictions and share it with other readers in the comments section.

1. Liverpool vs Everton

2. Chelsea vs Aston Villa

3. Crystal Palace vs Leicester City

4. Hull City vs Manchester City

5. Manchester United vs West Ham United

6. Southampton vs Queens Park Rangers

7. Sunderland vs Swansea City

8. Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur

9. West Brom vs Burnley

10. Stoke City vs Newcastle United

Via @Famousseyi

2014/15 EPL Preview: Romelu Lukaku, Roberto Martinez and Everton

ON ROMELU LUKAKU, ROBERTO MARTINEZ AND HOW FAR EVERTON CAN REALLY GO.

IN 2011, Chelsea snapped up one of the biggest youth prospects in the world, Romelu Lukaku who joined in a possibly £18m deal, it seemed like a match made in heaven, like a better love story than twilight; a self-confessed Chelsea fan, who was going to be learning and ultimately take over from his icon and role model Didier Drogba, it seemed like the perfect setup, it seemed like nothing could go wrong but alas 3 years later and Lukaku is now an Everton player, making next to zero impact at Stamford Bridge, and this time it is a full transfer and ironically it is the re-signing of his icon that confirmed his status as expendable at the London club. The old Drogba was re-signed, the new Drogba has been sold, the old Drogba is now the new Drogba and vice versa? The semantics of it all confuses me.

As a result of a tumultuous campaign under Andre Villas-Boas, Lukaku found gametime a rare commodity in his debut season in England, thereby greatly hindering his progress and development, it was agreed that a loan move to one of the lesser teams would benefit all parties involved, Lukaku would continue to develop given more playing time, Chelsea would benefit by having a more refined player and West Brom would have a real gem on their hands, and so it turned out. At the end of his time at West Brom, Lukaku admitted that another loan would be good for him but he would make a decision only after speaking to Chelsea new gaffer; Jose Mourinho.

It was initially agreed that he would stay and fight for a spot but in a dramatic turn of events after Lukaku’s penalty miss against Bayern Munich in the UEFA supercup cost the team a trophy (albeit minor one), Lukaku was sent to Everton on another season long loan. The conspiracy theorist in me thinks Mourinho hates losing trophies especially against his arch rival Pep Guardiola so someone had to pay the price but the truth is in reality, only Mourinho and Lukaku truly know what led to the breakdown of their relationship.

After 15 goals and 6 assists in 31 games for Everton with a 62% shot accuracy and 20% conversion rate, the romantic in me thought maybe Lukaku might still have a future at Chelsea but as in reality nowadays, most love stories end in divorce, this divorce though looks to be beneficial to all parties involved, Chelsea make a handsome profit, Lukaku has a team where he is respected and afforded what he craves the most; playing time, and Everton have a 21 year old wonderkid with 65 career league goals, and 32 Epl goals in his last 2 seasons (a goal tally only bettered by RVP and Suarez).

In roberto Martinez, Everton have a young, ambitious and likeable manager, one with a very progressive, holistic and entertaining philosophy of football. After what can be described as a very successful season in 2013/14 with Everton as the Liverppol team almost gatecrashed the top 4, Martinez faces a tough task in replicating or bettering last season’s success especially given how a lot of top teams have aggressively strengthened.

A below par preseason has also dampened the mood and optimism of some of the fans and understandably so, but the ultra positive Martinez will see this as a challenge rather than a problem. The Everton squad is a very peculiar one as they have very good players in every position and no obvious weaknesses which makes them extremely difficult to improve but Martinez has done a very good job of retaining the services of lukaku who he has called a ‘statement signing’ and Gareth Barry; a player that was crucial in their success. Muhammed Besic who impressed at the world cup with Bosnia has also been signed to provide cover at centre back and also challenge for a midfield spot, Brendan Galloway was also signed from MK Dons to give some depth defensively, a loan deal has also been agreed for Chelsea’s Christian Atsu subject to a work permit to give the coach further options. All these have also been achieved with the club keeping a hold of all its star players, the ever impressive Leighton Baines remains true to the cause, the explosive Seamus Coleman has rather surprisingly very few suitors, while the club have done a very good job of retaining the impressive Barkley at the club, and the likes of Mirallas, Jagielka, Distin etc can also be very well relied on to do very good jobs.

On the basis of all these, it can be said that the Everton have done a silently impressive job in the transfer window although they still fall short of their other top 4 rivals in terms of player quality and star factor, but in Martinez the club has a coach that favours the collective over the individual and propagates a philosophy where a team should perform better than the sum of its parts.

A very interesting combination of a talented manager, a core of young talented and developing players and a couple of experienced and reliable players makes it difficult to define what a good 2014/15 season will be for Everton.

Chelsea and Manchester City look set to do battle for the league title, perennial top 4 candidates Arsenal have strengthened their squad, Liverpool are looking to continue their rise to the top, there seems to be an impending rise from Manchester united while Tottenham under new coach Pochettino are very much a wildcard team, all these factors make it very difficult to define what success will look like for Everton in the coming season.

The way I see it, a challenge for one of the Champions League spots is not impossible, a brilliant start to the season and who knows what can happen from there on, a top 6 finish would still qualify as a good season in my books, a run to the quarter/semi final of the Europa League would also be good for the club, a good run in both domestic cups would also be very good for their health, a cup trophy would be the icing on the cake.

A statement signing in Lukaku, an ambitious manager in Roberto Martinez and a very interesting Everton squad, the 2014/15 season promises to be an exciting and unpredictable one for Everton FC, but one thing is certain; the goodison faithful will cheer an exciting, ambitious and entertaining football team.

So what are your own thoughts? Can Everton get a top four place or will there performance last season be too much to replicate? We do appreciate reading from you so drop your views in the comments box provided below.

Via @Aguerohimovic

STEVE CLARKE’S DISMISSAL – WEST BROM’S LOSS

OUT….but not DOWN

THE UNHERALDED DISMISSAL OF STEVE CLARKE MIGHT COST WEST BROM MORE THAN THEIR PREMIER LEAGUE PLACE…IT MAY COST THEM A WHOLE LOT MORE.

Save for knowing they’re a Premier League side, I don’t know much about the city of Birmingham, England-based West Bromwich Albion Football Club to be honest. If I reeled out any glossy names and statistics about the Baggies here, that’s Google talking. I’d only be a charlatan and would only succeed in humiliating myself when Real Baggies faithful turn up for banter.

This much I know about the Baggies though:
• They’re a modest side that’s been in and out of the Premier League like a Yo-yo.
• Kanu “Papillo” Nwankwo once laced his boots for the Baggies before going down South to win the FA Cup with Portsmouth FC.
• Who would forget Osaze “Le Rant Terrible” Odemwinge once drove two hours to London on deadline day last January to force a move away from West Brom when he’s changed from hero to villain in the fans books?
• And lastly, the club owner is wrong to have fired former manager, Steve Clarke, in such inglorious manner.

Steve Clarke was fired after the Baggies fourth back-to-back defeat in the 2013-14 Premier League season. It’s more unfortunate that the man has won only once in the last 10 games and seven Premier League matches in 2013. Not respectful stats by any standards. But we’re talking about the same man that got the club to their highest place (8th) in their Premier League history last season.

The most annoying thing about Steve Clarke’s dismissal were the words by the club when the news broke…that’s he was being placed on “Gardening Leave”. Gardening Leave? Is someone joking somewhere? What happened to coming out straight and saying the man’s been relieved of his job? What’s with the pussyfooting and lilly-liveredness? Someone ought to have grown “a pair” and said Clarke’s been fired. Anyway you look at it, sacking Clarke would come back to haunt West Brom for two reasons:

THEY’VE BEEN OFFICIALLY CONDEMNED TO RELEGATION SCRAP

The Baggies though 16th have got their job cut out for them now; for in sacking Clarke they’ve condemned themselves to a death sentence. Dropping down would amount to a bigger loss of revenue and harsh life in the rabidly competitive Championship.
Retaining their Premiership status just assumed a nightmare of epic proportions because the only club to survive firing a manager in December was West Brom back in 2005. There might not be a ‘Great Escape’ this time. As bad as the club owner’s case of having so little to show for investing so much money would tank in the face of relegation.

If Clarke put Manchester United to the sword at Old Trafford for the first time since 1979, matched Arsenal grit-for-grit at the Emirates when they were at their peak and had to be cheated out of beating Jose Mourinho’s standing Chelsea home record at Stamford Bridge, he deserves time to get the players back to form.

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WEEK 13: EPL PREVIEW AND PREDICTIONS

They put four past Newcastle, then lost at Cardiff. They put four past Manchester United, then lost at Aston Villa. They put seven past Norwich, then lost at Sunderland. But there is a sense that this inconsistency may be coming to an end. It has to, surely.

When Manchester City play like they did against Tottenham on Sunday, it looks as if the league is theirs for the taking. It can only be a matter of time, surely, until they put a run of wins together and surge to the front.

Loic Remy has now scored eight goals in his last eight league appearances for the Magpies this season – and, like the rest of the team’s French contingent, is flying. The former Marseille star is giving Sergio Aguero, Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge a run for their money in the Premier League top scorer race.

The French striker is quick, moves intelligently and, most importantly is something of a predator in front of goal.

The English Premier League enters Week 13 this weekend and this round begins the infamous December fixture pile-up in England. I think it’s safe to say that this is the juncture where the men will be separated from the boys. With seven matches to negotiate in the next four weeks, the league table should have a more definite shape by the start of the New Year.

ASTON VILLA vs SUNDERLAND

Villa are unbeaten in three matches and this fixture provides an opportunity for them to put a strong run of results together.

The Black cats have been quite unlucky with refereeing decisions this season and Gus Poyet will hope his team doesn’t continue to suffer from these errors. They were in the game at Hull City until two red cards ended the match as a contest and West Brown’s unjust sending off at Stoke City last weekend ensured Poyet’s side were handicapped for most of the match.

If Sunderland can have 11 players on the field for the entire duration of this fixture, they will give Villa a good run for the points on offer.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: DRAW (1-1)

CARDIFF CITY vs ARSENAL

It was not pretty against Southampton but Arsenal won. Make no mistake; Arsenal might not have won this war of attrition at other times in the eight years of their trophy drought.

I can’t emphasize enough the heart the Bluebirds have shown this season in the top-flight. They do not possess star names in their squad but there is this apparent cohesion and will to play for each other. They will give their all and nothing less.

Expect another fight from Cardiff but there’s a reason why the Gunners are top of the league (consistency) and I think Arsenal will pick them out easily.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: ARSENAL WIN (0-3)

EVERTON vs STOKE CITY

Everton are not just about passing for the sake of it, as some critics suggest. They have balance, but are brave and ambitious with the ball. But the Toffees are facing seven matches in the next four weeks, as they look to establish themselves in the race for a top four place, losing Leighton Baines until the New Year is a blow.

Stoke City have been better recently and are unbeaten in three league games. Another plus for the Potters is that they have found their scoring boots.

However, Everton have a swagger that is difficult to ignore. I’m not sure the Potters will be able to live with them.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: EVERTON WIN (2-0)

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WEEK 4 EPL PREVIEW AND PREDICTIONS

The biggest transfer of deadline day in the Premier League seems a fitting place to start this week’s preview. The waiting and waiting…and waiting for Arsene Wenger to fork-out the funds for a big-name and big-impact signing has finally ended.

A known successful player at club and international level has joined the Gunners in Mesut Ozil. A turning point and progressive movement from the North London side for the season ahead. The midfield options of Mikel Arteta, Jack Wilshere, Aaron Ramsey, Santi Cazorla, Tomas Rosicky and the German wonder that is Mesut Ozil, strikes fear into Premier League opposition as the Gunner’s of old did.

If a victory over local rivals, Tottenham wasn’t enough, then this is certainly the jackpot in the change of fortune for Arsene Wenger’s beloved Arsenal. They have certainly caught the attention of the whole of England with their transfer deadline day splash.

It all looks to be coming together for Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers and especially with star player Luis Suarez giving them one more year then there’s a chance they could give the better-resourced teams a run for their money this season.

Aston Villa conceded 69 goals last season – their worst defensive record since 1987 – and failed to keep a clean sheet in 22 league matches, going back to the goalless draw against Stoke in December. They’ve conceded four in three matches this season. If Paul Lambert is to avoid another relegation battle this season, he must plug the apparent holes in the Villa defence.

Hull showed more than enough organisation and enterprise against Manchester City to suggest predictions of a swift return to the Championship might be premature.

For Paolo Di Canio and his Sunderland work-in-progress, there is a lot done but a lot more to do.

While we were all watching the best of International football in every part of the world, Premier League managers were counting up the air miles their players clocked up ahead of another weekend in domestic football. Too bad they can do nothing about it.

Here’s my preview of Match day 4 in the Premier League…. My first stop is at Old Trafford

MANCHESTER UNITED vs CRYSTAL PALACE

David Moyes is still looking for his first win at Old Trafford

Crystal Palace have not looked so bad, certainly better than I and most other pundits thought they would be in the top flight. They were undone against Tottenham by a penalty and managed to open their Premier League scoring against Stoke City. Their win over Sunderland was certainly convincing and has now made most people sit up and have a change of heart about them.

Manchester United have already dropped five points in their first three games and the transfer window was a chance to address the deficiencies that have conspired to see them make such a faltering start. It was an opportunity missed and Manchester United fans can only hope the naivety of Ed Woodward and his cack-handed performance in his first real test does not hinder their chances of success this season.

The Eagles looked decent in the final third last week, but Ian Holloway’s men allowed Sunderland too much space in their own half and David Moyes’ side will take advantage of this on Saturday.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: MANCHESTER UNITED WIN

Read the rest of the preview here http://www.osesax.com/BlogDetail.aspx?bId=71

Week 18: English Premier League Preview and Predictions

Manchester United maintained their place and gap at the top, Manchester City stay second and Chelsea, even though they weren’t in action last weekend kept their third spot. The Blues now have a Premier League match in hand after taking part in the Club World Cup in Japan, losing in the final to Corinthians of Brazil and considering their unpredictable form at the moment, I think it’s an advantage they get to play that match later and not now.

Tottenham Hotspur occupy the fourth spot after a close 1-0 win over Swansea City and Everton round out the top six though they could only draw 1-1 with Stoke and allowed Arsenal to move above them to fifth place.

QPR got their first win of the season and consequently moved away from the base of the table, Reading were picked apart very easily by Arsenal and find themselves rooted to the bottom of the table and Wigan complete the relegation spots in 18th place.

The famously congested Christmas period in the Premier League starts this weekend with the first of four round of matches in a little under 14 days.

WHO WILL BE BOTTOM AT CHRISTMAS ?

Any team placed 20th on the 25th of December has a pretty tough stat to fight.
Since the élite division broke away in 1992, only one team has ever survived after propping up the table at Christmas and that was West Bromwich Albion in 2005 – a feat popularly known as ‘the Great Escape‘. So for Reading, QPR, Wigan, Southampton, Sunderland and even Newcastle United, it’s important they avoid that dreaded 20th place by Christmas.

Onto Week 18… Here is my preview and predictions…

WIGAN ATHLETIC vs ARSENAL

Arsenal closed within two points of Tottenham on Monday night with a morale-boosting win at Reading. It was the Gunners first away win in five attempts and a fitting response following last week’s shock Capital One Cup penalty shoot-out defeat at Bradford.

Wigan have now lost five of the last seven and remain in the bottom three after last weekend’s reverse against Norwich. They won’t get any respite on Saturday with Arsenal coming into town.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: ARSENAL WIN

MANCHESTER CITY vs READING

Roberto Mancini insisted before last weekend’s trip to Newcastle that despite the derby defeat, his team were still better than their rivals. And after 45 amazing minutes at St James’ Park last weekend, followed by a second half of real battle, tenacity and grit, it was hard to disagree. Make no mistake, if City are able to play like they did in the first half against Newcastle United on a more regular basis, Alex Ferguson will not be able to put his feet up just yet. If City go on like this, it could be an exceedingly interesting New Year when the battle for the Premier League crown really heats up.

For Reading there is only a tale of woe. SIX defeats in a row and seemingly no way out of the bottom three soon. Unless they become more convincing at the back, they are doomed to an immediate return to the Championship.

These are the sort of matches Manchester City will win and win well as their class and quality will be too much for even the Royals. Brian McDermott’s men will do well to keep the result respectable.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: MANCHESTER CITY WIN

SOUTHAMPTON vs SUNDERLAND

The Black Cats have won just twice in the Premier League this season, both on home soil against teams – Wigan and Reading – that are alongside them in the mire. There’s no shame in losing to Manchester United but the Black Cats must ensure they continue with the form they showed in the second half against Manchester United last weekend, most part of which they were by far the better team.

Southampton have shown signs of life in the past month but had to take a break last weekend due to their match against Chelsea being postponed – a break I believe they didn’t need, not with the form they have been showing, especially at home, I think they will just about edge this.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: SOUTHAMPTON WIN

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR vs STOKE CITY

A clash of styles…

Tottenham would love to widen the gap between them and Everton in fifth place and to do that, these are the kind of matches they must win, especially at home.
Stoke City have a formidable defensive record and have drawn NINE matches in the Premier League this season. They are placed ninth on the log, no thanks to their ultra-defensive style of play which continues to keep them competitive.

It will be close but one goal should be enough (again) for Tottenham.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR WIN

WEST BROMWICH ALBION vs NORWICH CITY

Norwich extended their unbeaten run in the Premier League to 10 games (THEIR BEST EVER) with a hard-earned 2-1 win over Wigan at Carrow Road. It’s been such a remarkable turnaround for Chris Hughton’s men as they have become very difficult to beat in the last TWO MONTHS owing to some dogged and tenacious performances. Only Manchester United have done better than Norwich City in the last six matches, believe it or not, the Canaries are placed SECOND on the form table !

West Brom haven’t found the net in any of their past three matches, including a scoreless draw with West Ham on Sunday. Performances and results have dropped in the last few weeks as they now find themselves in seventh place.

Norwich will fancy their chances in this one with the form they are currently on but I have a feeling the wheels are about to come off their unbeaten run. West Brom to get a win.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: WEST BROMWICH ALBION WIN

Harry plotting the great escape for Rangers

NEWCASTLE UNITED vs QUEENS PARK RANGERS

Whisper it quietly, but Harry Redknapp is now unbeaten in four matches since taking over from axed Mark Hughes and the Great Escape looks on. Rangers finally won a Premier league game at the 17th time of asking, beating Fulham 2-1 last weekend. QPR to be fair have shown signs of improvement since Redknapp came on board following up three successive draws with a first win – thanks in no small part to Adel Taarabt. Victory lifted Redknapp’s men off the bottom of the table. They now sit one place and one point above Reading.

Newcastle have slowly but surely slipped down the table as they are now just two points off a relegation spot. Alan Pardew was left to reflect upon a sixth defeat in seven Premier League matches against the reigning champions last weekend, but he must be buoyed by a performance of real character against a team which at times threatened to rip them apart. The magpies went down fighting (again) but must start fighting to win from now onwards or they could be in serious trouble.

The Toons need the three points in this one with Manchester United and Arsenal to come before New Year. On the other hand, Rangers’ first Premier League win will mean nothing if they don’t build on it and they have a good chance to do just that against an out-of-sorts Newcastle United side.

The magpies are condemned to win this one. I see a lone goal victory here.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: NEWCASTLE UNITED WIN

WEST HAM UNITED vs EVERTON

Nine draws have caused Everton to slide after their mesmerising start. With Marouane Fellaini out through suspension, Everton’s task look even more difficult.

West Ham haven’t had it good of late after their impressive start to the season, accumulating only five points from a possible 18. They will prove difficult but Everton should get something.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: DRAW

LIVERPOOL vs FULHAM

Liverpool’s three-match winning run was ended in surprising fashion last weekend as Aston Villa exposed their flaws and the flakiness of their challenge for a top-four place. I was particularly too quick to conclude Liverpool were finally clicking into top gear, well not if they defend as poorly as they did last weekend in a 3-1 reverse at the hands of Villa and Benteke. Christian Benteke scored two and created a sublime goal for Andreas Weimann in as impressive a display from an opponent Anfield has seen all season.

If the Reds thought they had turned a corner, Brendan Rodgers will be praying they have not gone round another — heading back in the same direction.

Fulham looked to have turned the corner after beating Newcastle United (their first win in eight matches) but then lost to QPR last weekend. At Fulham, the objective has always been to finish as high as possible, anything else is a bonus and Martin Jol will be hoping their home form will see them safe (as usual) in the New Year.

With two tough looking away trips to QPR and Stoke City before the New Year, it’s imperative that the Reds get maximum points in this one.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: LIVERPOOL WIN

SWANSEA CITY vs MANCHESTER UNITED

Sir Alex Ferguson’s men ensured they will spend christmas at the top of the table with a 3-1 win over Sunderland last weekend. The win kept United six points clear of neighbours City. But perhaps the most important part of the game last weekend was the introduction of skipper and defensive stalwart, Nemanja Vidic. Plagued by injuries since August 2011, Vidic’s absence during last season’s run-in contributed to United’s defensive wobbles and the Serbian is viewed as the main man to plug the leaks that have been so obvious for a side who have still only kept three clean sheets all season.

It’s three defeats in a row for Michael Laudrup’s men and the visit of a rampaging Manchester United side provides no hope this trend will be halted this weekend. The Swans are certainly capable of beating any team on their day but I don’t think Sunday would be one of them. I can only see one result here with Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney in such top form.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: MANCHESTER UNITED WIN

CHELSEA vs ASTON VILLA

Villa moved three points clear of the relegation zone after a deserved 3-1 win at Anfield last weekend. It was a result no one would have predicted as Paul Lambert’s men extended their own unbeaten run to five matches, with only a second away win in 17 away league games. I must apologize for once questioning Paul Lambert’s insistence on fielding summer signing Christian Benteke ahead of veteran Premier League striker Darren Bent. Though the English striker is out injured at the moment, I think Benteke has more than made a strong claim to start ahead of him and credit to Lambert for sticking to his guns even in the face of widespread criticisms. Lambert’s work are certainly bearing fruits and Villa will head to Stamford Bridge looking to exploit the uncertainties and atmosphere around Chelsea.

I feared what state of mind the Chelsea team would be after making theb journey all the way down to Japan for the Club World Cup and coming back home empty handed. I thought their spirit would be deflated and after travelling many miles in one week, I also thought fatigue, injuries and suspension of key players would also come to bite them. But the Blues showed unbelievable spirit and class to overcome all these fears, coming from a goal down to sweep past Championship side Leeds United 5-1 and booked their place in the semi-finals of the Capital One Cup.

If Chelsea’s brilliant second half performance on Wednesday is anything to go by, Villa have a long evening ahead of them on Sunday.

OctopusSaxy’s Verdict: CHELSEA WIN

That’s it for this weekend’s Premier League matches. What do you think of my Analysis and Predictions? Let me know by making use of the comments box below and if you enjoyed the piece, could you kindly make use of the share buttons below? Thanks. You could also check back on Monday to see how I fared with my predictions.

Follow me on twitter ——— @Osesax

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR IN ADVANCE

Week 15: English Premier League Preview and Predictions

Three matches in 10 days might not be the best for the English Premier League players but for fans who have always had to wait six days between each round of matches, it doesn’t get any better than a two-day interval between three rounds of matches.

Chelsea lie seven points behind leaders Manchester United and six behind Manchester City, do we have a two-horse race on our hands? I believe so! The two Manchester teams I have always felt would go head-to-head again just like last season. They are the two most consistent teams in the Premier League and it should be another enthralling tussle for the Premier League title.

Tottenham moved above Everton and Arsenal into fifth after two consecutive home wins, Chelsea are back in third place but only on goal difference while West Bromwich Albion dropped to fourth after their 3-1 reverse at the hands of Swansea. At the other end, Southampton, Reading and Queens Park Rangers occupy the bottom three places but it’s crystal clear Rangers have a huge fight on their hands if they are to keep their Premier League status.

WEST HAM UNITED vs CHELSEA

How long before Chelsea regret giving him a job?

Two games without a goal, barely a shot on target and even less entertainment, add up to four points from a possible 18 and a seven-point gap from the top. I think the Chelsea fans have got a right to air their frustrations at their new manager after paying their hard-earned money to watch their team struggle to a second successive draw at home. Holding the Premier League champions to a 0-0 result seems like a good outcome but failing to see off a Fulham side who are notoriously known to gift three points on their travels is just not good enough and if the performances in the past month is anything to go by for Chelsea, then my pre-season prediction that the European Champions would struggle to get a top four spot this term looks very much on the cards.

West Ham United matched Manchester United for long periods in their match on Wednesday, a Robin van Persie first minute goal proved to be the difference and on another night the Hammers could have left Old Trafford with a draw. I think the players and Sam Allardyce would be very confident gong up against a Chelsea team that is winless in six Premier League games. Sam Allardyce especially enjoyed some interesting and sometimes volatile match-ups against Rafa Benitez while the Spaniard was Liverpool manager so it promises to be a very close encounter.

West Ham at Upton Park is a daunting prospect for any Premier League side, least of all one with a new manager still trying to find his feet. If Rafa Benitez gets Mikel Obi and Juan Mata back in the starting eleven, I think they can win but without these two, Chelsea fans should be prepared for another labored performance.

OctupusSaxy’s verdict: DRAW

MANCHESTER CITY vs EVERTON

Manchester City extended their unbeaten top flight run to 20 matches on Wednesday night grounding out a 2-0 win at Wigan’s DW stadium.

A sixth draw in eight Premier League games has put a dampener on Everton’s impressive start to the season and they have now dropped to sixth place.

This should be a very interesting one, Roberto Mancini’s men would have to be on top of their game in this fixture and I think they will just about edge it.

OctupusSaxy’s verdict: MANCHESTER CITY WIN

WEST BROMWICH ALBION vs STOKE CITY

There was a first loss in five Premier League games handed out to the Baggies as they were cut to size on Wednesday night at the Liberty stadium in a thumping 3-1 defeat to Swansea City.

Stoke City have not lost a Premier League game on home soil since February and this record was in danger on Wednesday night but the Potters dug deep to come back from a one-goal deficit and eventually won Newcastle United 2-1.

West Bromwich Albion will be looking to bounce back at home as they try to stay among the big boys at the top of the table and on a ground where they have won all their matches but one (against Manchester City), Stoke City would do well to even leave with a point.

OctupusSaxy’s verdict: WEST BROMWICH ALBION WIN

NORWICH CITY vs SUNDERLAND

The Canaries are unbeaten in eight games in all competitions and came away from Southampton with a deserved point. Sunderland are out of sorts at the moment and I can see only one result here.

OctupusSaxy’s verdict: NORWICH CITY WIN

FULHAM vs TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR

Tottenham recorded their second home win in four days in a 2-1 win over Liverpool on Wednesday night, all thanks to Gareth Bale’s sublime start on the night.

Tottenham are showing form at the moment with Gareth Bale (10 goals for club and country this season) and Jermain Defoe (seven League goals so far) on top form. Andres Villas-Boas should hope the duo stay fit for much of the season as I feel they will be important to Spurs’ top four aspirations.

Fulham have not tasted a win in their last five Premier League games and with a confident looking Tottenham side up next, I don’t think this will change.

OctupusSaxy’s verdict: DRAW

ARSENAL vs SWANSEA CITY

Why won’t Arsene sign him up?

Swansea City got their fifth win of the season against the Premier League’s surprise package, West Bromwich Albion. The Swans are now unbeaten in five games and no doubt will be very confident making their trip to the Emirates stadium.

A point at one of the toughest venues in the Premier League I believe is no bad result but with everything happening with Arsenal’s other top four challengers, it’s important the Gunners get back to winning ways starting with this match against Swansea.

Swansea City are on a run of just one defeat in their last nine games and I feel they will get a point on Saturday, Arsenal just don’t seem to be up for it quite yet.

OctupusSaxy’s verdict: DRAW

LIVERPOOL vs SOUTHAMPTON

Southampton are now unbeaten in four Premier League games and defensively they have looked solid as a team in the past one month. The Saints are fast becoming tighter at the back, giving their fans plenty of hope that their club can climb away from the bottom three soon.

Liverpool’s defeat at Tottenham on Wednesday night brought an end to the Reds’ eight-game unbeaten run. The Reds looked a good team for most part of the game as they were only hard done by a poor start on the night. Even Andres Villas-Boas conceded Liverpool deserved a draw.

It all seems to be coming together for Liverpool but they must start winning matches and a record of just two Premier league wins at Anfield is poor.

OctupusSaxy’s verdict: LIVERPOOL WIN

QUEENS PARK RANGERS vs ASTON VILLA

Aston Villa’s third win of the season against Reading on Tuesday night moved them out of the Premier League bottom three. Paul Lambert’s insistence to not include Darren Bent in his second consecutive match day squad is a big surprise for me and one I can’t seem to get my head around. This is a player who was signed two years ago for a lot of money and he scored the goals that kept Villa in the top flight. Whatever is the problem going on behind the scenes between Lambert and Bent, I feel it’s important the former gets him into his plans as soon as possible as Bent is a player that has goals written all over him once the service is right.

Rangers showed plenty on Tuesday night to suggest that there could be some light at the end of the tunnel for them. The Hoops put up a spirited display at Sunderland to earn a clean sheet and a point as well.

This is a MUST-WIN for Rangers and I see Harry Redknapp matching his first match at Loftus road with a win.

OctupusSaxy’s verdict: QUEENS PARK RANGERS WIN

READING vs MANCHESTER UNITED

I think Manchester United had a great defensive display on Wednesday night at home to West Ham United. The home fans might grumble about the performance as it lacked the excitement and electricity generated when Manchester United have thrillingly fought back from a deficit but all those traveling to the Etihad stadium on December 9 will understand that with a fine defensive performance, the top two positions could remain unchanged till the new year when Manchester United are known to kick into gear.

This looks pretty straight-forward on paper but Sir Alex Ferguson’s men must be careful so as not to fall into the same trap like they did on their last Premier League away match at Norwich City.

OctupusSaxy’s verdict: MANCHESTER UNITED WIN

NEWCASTLE UNITED vs WIGAN ATHLETIC

Newcastle United were handed their fourth consecutive loss on Wednesday night for the first time since September 2008. The reasons for this bad trend are very simple and that’s the Toon’s participation in Europe and their big injury list which includes stars such as Yohan Cabaye, Steven Taylor and Hartem Ben Arfa.

The statistics on Wednesday night against champions Manchester City did not reflect a fine performance from the Lactics who will play a lot worse and pick up points.

The magpies are missing a number of key players at the moment and until a few of them return, I think they will find it difficult to win games.

OctupusSaxy’s verdict: DRAW

That’s it for this weekend’s Premier League matches. What do you think of my Analysis and Predictions? Let me know by making use of the comments box below and if you enjoyed the piece, could you kindly make use of the share buttons below? Thanks. You could also check back on Tuesday to see how I fared with my predictions.

Follow me on twitter – @Osesax

HAVE A SUPER WEEKEND AND MERRY CHRISTMAS IN ADVANCE