Premier League Matchday 21 Predictions
Everton v Newcastle
Everton are like that really annoying fly - they don't go away. Every time you think their hopes of a top 4 finish have disappeared, they go on another decent run. I would expect that run to continue here against a Newcastle side with no wins in the league since before Christmas. The concern for Steve Bruce is they have not performed well once in that time.
Prediction 3-0
Crystal Palace v Wolves
When these teams met in the cup a few weeks ago, it was a very tight game. Yes Wolves came out on top, but Palace will argue they were the better team. I really do not see much between these sides and that is backed up by the current league table. I would expect this one to finish all square.
Prediction 1-1
Manchester City v Sheffield United
Pep Guardiola must be delighted. City have found their mojo again, and are top of the league with a game in hand. If you had offered him that a month ago then I'm sure he would not have believed you. The Blades had an excellent win at Old Trafford on Wednesday to give them some belief, but a trip to The Etihad is another step up.
Prediction 3-0
West Brom v Fulham
This should be an open and attacking game because a draw sends both of these teams closer to the Championship. Fulham will attack as always, and this might be a rare occasion they dominate the ball. Surely Sam Allardyce has to get his team on the front foot and take the game to Fulham. This is very winnable for both teams - West Brom probably need it more but it is the visitors I am backing.
Prediction 0-1
Arsenal v Manchester United
Arsenal's young guns have certainly been impressive of late, but I want to look at the forgotten man in many ways - Alex Lacazette. He has been superb recently and Arsenal always look like scoring with him making runs into the box. Until Wednesday's home defeat to Sheffield United, Manchester United were flying high on top of the table. They say London buses come in pairs, and I think defeats will come in pairs for Solksjaer's team.
Prediction 2-1
Southampton v Aston Villa
While they are still doing well in the cup, Southampton's league form has hit a sticky patch that is going on longer than they would have liked. Aston Villa didn't do themselves any favour either with their defeat at Burnley last time out. These are both teams who really need a win to keep touch with the European chasing sides.
Prediction 1-1
Chelsea v Burnley
Normally you get a bounce when a new manager comes in, but Chelsea were so flat in Thomas Tuchel's first game. He will point to the fact they had nearly 80% possession, but the best chances fell the way of Wolves. I would expect them to win this one, and Tuchel will certainly want to open his account.
Prediction 2-0
Leicester v Leeds
When these teams met at Elland Road earlier in the season, the Foxes absolutely dominated from start to finish. I would expect a similar game here because you know Leicester will open Leeds up at will. Marcelo Bielsa is beginning to frustrate me because if he ditched his plan A in certain games, they would be much higher up the league. You have to be adaptable in the Premier League, and he isn't.
Prediction 2-0
West Ham v Liverpool
The Hammers are really mounting an unexpected charge - they are in the top 4 and are looking very good at the moment. Unfortunately for them, Liverpool sparked into life by annihilating Spurs on Thursday night. They looked much more like themselves, and they will win again if the front 3 can repeat that performance.
Prediction 1-3
Brighton v Tottenham
The pattern of Brighton's season has been play well, lose games. If the league was based on performances alone, Brighton would already be safe. Spurs have been hit with a hammer blow with the news that Harry Kane will miss about a month with ankle injuries. I should be leaning towards the visitors here, but the home side have got my attention.
Prediction 2-1
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