The World Cup is looming and after this weekend we only have two more match weeks, enjoy the best league in the world while you can. The action begins on BT Sport at the Kingpower Stadium:
Leicester City v Manchester City
- Leicesters last home win over City was on Boxing Day 2018 (2-1), stemming from dysfunction and implosion by the visitors. Much the same will need to occur this time round if the losing run is to end. The 12.30 Saturday fixture is a poisoned chalice for the favoured side, Liverpool can vouch for that!
- The home sides defence has been very questionable this season, they enter this game with four clean sheets from the last five matches but they’ve rode their luck at times. If Haaland does not play due to his midweek knock it will offer them hope but the issue with that situation is the champions will draft in another world class player, who’s skillset will differ to the Norwegian creating different in-play matchups to contend with.
- Riyad Mahrez if selected holds a tripe reason to perform well this weekend, of course he faces his former side but also he will want to bounce back from his Champions league penalty miss and turnaround his poor form so far this season. City rely on their widemen to turn all their possession into assists or goals as a favoured tactic is switching from one side of the pitch to the other in a instant creating space to drive into.
Player to Watch – Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall
The young Englishman started the season very well against Brentford setting the tone and tempo in midfield but since then has been fairly anonymous, lately Maddison and Tielemens are the sparks. Shining against City is a difficult proposition but at the same time if he can perform to his talent while playing the champions his campaign will be kickstarted.
Bournemouth v Tottenham Hotspur
- The last time these sides met was at the Vitality two years and the game ended up nil nil. That result would not be a surprise this time around too as the hosts have not scored in the last two games while Spurs have struggled scoring despite the outstanding forwards at their disposal. With a massive game on Tuesday in the Champions League, Conte may rotate his squad which will benefit Bournemouth as the drop off in class between starters and backups at Spurs is substantial.
- Tottenham are unbeaten this season when playing at 3pm on a Saturday, which could be due to them playing weaker, less glamorous sides but could also be accounted to the fact they are hidden away from the TV glare. Much has been expected from the North Londoners but it’s not clicked especially during televised games, the shortcomings unravel quickly.
- Space is hard to find within the tight confines of the Vitality, this is a dilemma for all visiting clubs and how it’s dealt with will determine not only this result but the Cherries Premier League future. If the hosts can make every home game a war of attrition then character comes into play more so than tactics. The midfield trio for Bournemouth are a great blend of grit and technique, the improvement since early defeats begins with their form. Antonio Conte as a player would have thrived in this away day but does his team have the minerals?
Player to Watch – Ryan Christie
The former Celtic winger has been a integral cog within the Bournemouth unit since their form and results improved. His work rate tracking back is commendable but he’s also very direct in possession. Spurs are extremely weak out wide defensively, Christie could capitalise on this weakness thus becoming a potential match winner for his side.
Brentford v Wolverhampton Wanderers
- This fixture last season was one of the longest games in Premier League history, twice the first half was delayed once for a horrific clash of heads between Brentford players Rico Henry and Mathias Jensen then strangely due a drone flying above the stadium. Both teams will be looking for less drama this time and a straight forward win to boost confidence after suffering four nil defeats in their last outing. With Halloween pending maybe the game will be delayed by some trick or treaters invading the pitch?
- It will be interesting how both teams line up after recent heavy defeats, Brentford fans are clamouring for a change in formation plus wiling Mikkel Damsgaard and Keane Lewis Potter to start a game while Wolves will surely want to make themselves hard to beat while attacking on the break. The first goal could be the only one scored in this match it’s going to be that cagey and tense.
- Max Killman has not been near last seasons form, he will need to improve this weekend as Ivan Toney will be looking to further enhance his England World Cup claims. FPL players are looking to the Brentford man to captain their sides due to Erling Haaland potentially missing City’s game. The Brentford man doesn’t rely on the service into him, he lets every opposition player on the field know he is there. This will be key head to head match up and if Toney comes out on top his side will win.
Player to Watch – Ruben Neves
Brentford have shown they struggle containing skilful number eights all season, despite Wolves poor form so far this term the Portuguese man could be the latest threat to the Bees. Last season at The GTech he was influential when Wanderers won, he needs to play like that more often, it’s vital if his team can hope to improve on their league position before the World Cup break.
Brighton & Hove Albion v Chelsea
- Chelsea have not lost at the Amex in the league while the last three meetings at either ground have all been draws, Graham Potter overseeing those results for Brighton. The welcome the former manager will receive is likely to be frosty but under him the Seagulls definitely hit a new level, moving away from worries about relegation to pushing for the top ten. The Blues fans will be hoping his impact at Stamford Bridge will springboard them to further trophies.
- Potters successor De Zerbi has not won a game yet and after such a promising, lively start against Liverpool the teams performances have been very drab. Surely his game plan this week will be preventing Chelsea from collecting all the second balls in midfield, as everyone of the visitors midfielders can travel with the ball through the thirds. The collective press along with individual duels metric will tell the story of this game.
- Speed is key in the Premier League whether it be physically or mentally, while Chelsea possess a healthy blend of both, Brightons players are mainly quick thinkers. The passing patterns of the hosts are a joy to watch but against elite units it can mean they barely progress to trouble the goalmouth. The recruitment setup for the Seagulls is not led by the head coach/manager but surely they will be looking to bring in players who can affect the game with pace.
Player to Watch – Raheem Sterling
Brightons defence is better equipped in dealing with larger, stronger forwards so Sterling’s skillset will cause them a constant headache. If the England international can perform how he can it could well lead to a multi goal day for him and three points for his club.
Crystal Palace v Southampton
- The first meeting between these clubs in the Premier League was at Selhurst Park twenty years ago, the visitors claiming the points 2-1. Ian Dowie scored both for the Saints that day and last week I compared Che Adams to him, he is my player to watch this week.
- Zaha, Olise and Eze blow hot and cold week to week but they will surely consider this as a sure fire hot week. Walker Peters is currently injured so one side of the Saints defence will be considerably weaker. Southampton come into this game three undefeated, only conceding two goals during that run but they’ve not faced a raw, dynamic trio like Crystal Palace’s. Defensive runs like Hussenhuti’s men are embroiled in lately can be the result of circumstances or the fortunate bounce of the ball, 5pm Saturday will show us if they are solid or lucky lately.
- The average age of both teams is among the lowest in the league which bodes well for their futures but they both need to navigate this season well enough to ensure relegation is not a option. As we stand the drop is still a very viable proposition, winning games like this are their bread and butter. Teams in and around you are where the W’s need to occur. I still have my doubts about both managers and would not be surprised if both are gone by the seasons end.
Player to Watch – Che Adams
Palaces centre backs have struggled against powerful number nines all season, which is surprising considering they come across as players who would enjoy that battle. Fresh off facing Calvert Lewin and being exposed, containing the Scotsman is a game winning scenario. Adams is not a massive goal threat but he will create space and chances for his teammates.
Newcastle United v Aston Villa
- The highest scoring Premier League game between these sides was back in 1996, with Newcastle winning 4-3. That score line seems unlikely this time round but some of the talent on the field may become PL legends like the goal scorers from 96, Alan Shearer, Dwight Yorke or Les Ferdinand. The main contender being the new King of St James Park, Bruno Guimaraes. Teams within the top four will be kicking them-self they didn’t purchase him in January, I fully expect him to be the best midfielder in the league by this time next year.
- Breaching the Newcastle backline will be a lot tougher for Villa than it was during last weekends victory over Brentford. The defence for the hosts set the narrative each game, soaking up what’s thrown at them thus providing the platform for the forwards to impact matches. Kieran Trippier is the one defender who affects the game in attacking zones consistently but in the main the others concentrate on their primary role. If Villa score two goals or more they will expect to be the winners.
- Aston Villa moved very quickly to appoint Unai Emery, he will not be in charge on Saturday due to the work permit process but he will learn a lot about his players against Newcastle especially how they deal with the vibrant home support. The Spaniard is a meticulous coach, demanding a lot of his players which usually results in big game victories. This fixture is a audition, those who falter may not have a future at Villa Park once January comes around. Those on the chopping block will be Coutinho, McGinn and Watkins.
Player to Watch – Callum Wilson
Calls for Wilson to be included within Gareth Southgates World Cup squad grow with every game, another goal on Saturday will help his claims. Villa are buoyed after last weekends win but the defence will be penetrated greater by Newcastle than Brentford offered last weekend.
Fulham v Everton
- Frank Lampard returns to West London and one of the stars on show the last time they met at Craven Cottage when Everton won 3-2 is also back among the goals, that being Dominic Calvert Lewin. The talismanic striker scored two that day and will be looking for a similar haul to build on last Saturdays goal. A England call up is probably out of his reach but surely a injury free run till the end of the season has to be his main aim.
- Fulham have scored eight goals in the last three games, picking up seven points. It’s fair to say they will not be fearing whoever they play currently. That confidence could blow Everton away early Saturday in front of the Craven Cottage faithful.
- Harrison Read protects his defenders as well as any defensive midfielder in the league but he faces a fascinating battle combating the energising bunny pair of Iwobi and Onana. Both Everton players are not just athletes they possess twinkle toes too, the only aspect they are missing this season are goals, it’s a good a time as ever this week to lodge their names on the scoresheet.
Player to Watch – James Tarkowski
Largely outperformed by Conor Coady this season, Tarkowski will be needed to step up Saturday and deal with Mitrovic. He is the strongest defender physically within the Everton backline, If the former Burnley man can shackle the home sides main goal threat it will establish a potential match winning platform.
Liverpool v Leeds United
- Over the years Liverpool have scored 38 goals at home to Leeds, that’s a average of 2.7 goals per game. Leeds average one goal per Anfield visit, history and form presents a ugly outcome for Jesse Marschs outfit. The most iconic meetings between these clubs both took place at Elland Road, in 2000 Leeds won 4-3 with Mark Viduka scoring all four and in 1995 Tony Yeboah scored that volley. The current Leeds squad would love a striker like those legends.
- The defeat to Forest last Saturday should be considered a blip rather than the start of another poor Liverpool run this term. Those days happen especially when you play the Saturday lunchtime slot. Nunez is scoring, Salah seems to be getting back to his best and Harvey Barnes is showing why he will be a England player for the next ten years. Nine points before the World Cup is a very probable proposition.
- The high octane Leeds pressing is not working as they have no quality players who can benefit when possession is there’s. In a instant Liverpool can play through the lines, this match up screams horror show for the visitors. If Jesse Marsch had any sense he would send his team out to frustrate the home side, setting out a low block and even playing a false nine. This result will not define their season but could buy him extra time in the role, the fans would appreciate a battling draw or unlucky defeat.
Player to Watch – Roberto Firminho
While other Liverpool forwards have suffered dips in form or injuries, Firminho has been the consistent performer. His ability to bring others into the game should offer a matchup that Leeds will not be able to handle. The Brazilian is probably the cleverest attacker in world football.
Arsenal v Nottingham Forest
- This is the first Premier League meeting since 1999 but Forest hold the most recent victory which was in the FA Cup last season at the City Ground. It will be Forests first visit to the Emirates, when they first met at Highbury in 1992 the goal scorers are now pundit partners on ITV, Ian Wright and Roy Keane, legendary!
- The home support will expect victory but it’s likely to be a long frustrating afternoon, Forest are set out currently to defend deep. The emphasis will be on Odegaard to split the defence rather than Saka or Martinelli who thrive on the space behind the opposition. Another key to victory will be Jesus, the Forest defence have not encountered a striker like him this season, his work ethic will keep them honest all afternoon.
- Lifelong Forest players Joe Worrall and Ryan Yates are the spine of the team, which is great to see considering all the summer additions. They both deserve to ply their trade at stadiums like the Emirates as they’re endured those rainy nights at Barnsley, Stoke or Rotherham. Tidy on the ball combined with a Championship work ethic should see them continue playing in the top flight beyond this term whether it’s with Forest or not. Once you taste the Premier League it’s hard to leave so any loyalty will be tested.
Player to Watch – William Saliba
Possession and territory will be heavily in Arsenals favour but if they are to bounce back from last weekends draw with Southampton it will be spearheaded by Saliba distinguishing any Forest counterattack therefore not allowing them to gain any confidence.
Manchester United v West Ham United
- The most iconic meeting between these sides at Old Trafford was back in 2007 when the Hammers won one nil courtesy of a Carlos Tevez goal, the result enabled the visitors to avoid relegation. My favourite meeting though was in the FA Cup in 2001 when Paulo Di Canio outfoxed Fabian Barthez, cooley slotting his effort underneath the French international.
- It looked like David Moyes year in charge at Old Trafford was the beginning of a downward career trajectory as his next few positions brought further turmoil. His renaissance at West Ham has been surprising but mirrors his squad development when in charge of Everton, difference being he has been backed financially this time around. When in charge at Goodison Park he had to polish rough diamonds, now he is bringing in more rounded talents. A Europa Conference win is very much in their sights due to the unbeaten run in the group stages, this may hinder the league position but a trophy in any competition should not be sneered at!
- Luke Shaws performance earlier in the season versus Brentford was widely criticised, it seemed his Old Trafford career was over but over the last month he has been one of the top performers for the Red Devils. It’s no surprise as he’s the best English left back we have and when in form not many in Europe can compete. The languid style he portrays to me shows composure but to others coupled with his size equals laziness/lack of pace.
Player to Watch – Declan Rice
Casimero has become integral within the Man Utd midfield, this matchup for Rice is when he shows the masses how good he really is. If he can dominate a man who’s had such a illustrious career it will send out shockwaves far beyond these shores plus bode well for England heading into the World Cup.
Premier League Player Power Rankings
Three players have entered the Power Rankings this week at the expense of the injured Reece James and out of touch Leandro Trossard & James Maddison. Congratulations to Miguel Almiron who is now top of the tree, wondering where Jack Grealish is?
- Miguel Almiron up 1
- Erling Haaland down 1
- Kevin De Bruyne up 4
- Jesus up 1
- Mason Mount up 5
- Bruno Guimaraes new entry
- Granit Xhaka new entry
- Phil Foden down 5
- Harvey Barnes new entry
- Bukayo Saka down 6
We have not seen a Saturday this busy in years, eight games with three live on TV, Match of the Day is going to be a beauty, enjoy your football weekend.