This weekend sees two of the top English clubs go head to head in what is expected to be an absorbing encounter. Chelsea host Manchester United in one of the biggest games of the calendar year.
The Premier League table makes a different reading yet again at the start of match week 18. Manchester United sits pretty at the top with a game in hand as Chelsea will hope to end their winless streak and end United’s unbeaten record for this season.
It seems that Blackburn owners didn’t really take into account the criticism towards Mike Ashley for sacking Chris Houghton, as they made a shock move of their own and released Sam Allardyce of his duties.
Meanwhile Roy Hodgson will be relieved to be at Anfield for this weekend as he will host his former team, Fulham.
It is expected that Carlos Tevez will feature for Manchester City against Everton, which promises to be another fascinating affair on Monday night. However, we start off with our predictions with the early kick-off between Sunderland and Bolton.
Sunderland v Bolton Wanderers
7th vs. 6th was never expected to be Sunderland v Bolton, but such has been the form and performances of these two teams that sees them, deservedly, so high up the table. Sunderland have been very strong at home all season and would
relish a chance to overtake their rivals in to 6th place.
Bolton who managed to take all three points against Blackburn last weekend, amid 10 men, would go into this game with high spirits. The manner of the victory showed that this Bolton team has the self belief and confidence to go all out for the win, even
when the odds are against them.
This is going to be one close match as both teams would feel that they can take all three points. Although Sunderland can nick this one, Bolton might get something from this game.
Prediction: 1-1
Arsenal v Stoke City
Arsenal have had some shock home defeats this season, but I expect this one to be a comfortable ride for Arsene Wenger’s team. What happened last week was a different story and Arsenal, who continue to welcome back star players such as Fabregas and van Persie,
can feel confident about taking all three points against Stoke.
Stoke City, who lost to Blackpool at home last weekend must have been wondering how they failed to take all three points, let alone failing to take even one. They created chance after chance but Blackpool held on for a win. Against Arsenal, they certainly
cannot afford to let go any of the chances that they might get.
Tony Pulis will be hoping against hope that Arsenal do not put on a show on Saturday otherwise, they can be in for a long afternoon.
Prediction: 3-0
Birmingham City v Newcastle United
Alan Pardew made a terrific start to his reign as Newcastle boss, when his side over came Liverpool by 3 goals to 1 at St James Park. However, his first away trip is going to be a real tough one. Birmingham have been on a run of 4 games unbeaten in the league
up until last week’s surprise defeat at the hands of Wolves. If Scott Dann and Roger Johnson can keep a close eye on Andy Carroll, then Birmingham are in with a good chance.
From what I have seen this season, Andy Carroll is bound to pop up with either a goal or an assist. The big centre forward has been a revelation this season and the way he outclassed both Kyrgiakos and Skrtel last weekend, the two Birmingham centre half’s
have got their work cut out.
If Birmingham can be a touch more expansive going forwards, they can take all three points but I have serious doubts that they will go down that route.
Prediction: 1-1
To be continued…
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