The FA Cup beckons next weekend so by the time teams play their next round of games starting line ups could be vastly different as the transfer window shuts in between. Quite a bit of action has occurred this week and the biggest spenders Chelsea feature in the BT Sport game :
Liverpool v Chelsea
Ninth v Tenth and one win each from their last three games, this is not where BT Sport or either of the sides would expect themselves to be as January is ending. Both coaches are under pressure but I would not expect them to lose their jobs, it’s more a matter of working out how to turn their fortunes around. The spending spree is very interesting at Chelsea, it will surely mean a few of the current squad will be leaving and teams like Newcastle could benefit. Names like Ziyech, Gallagher and Loftus-Cheek are rumoured to be sold, these are all very good players who just need some respect shown to them by future bosses and surely performances will follow.
PL Fixture Icons
Jamie Redknapp – Now known to younger fans as a Sky Sports pundit and League of their Own mainstay, back in 1992 he scored a last minute winner during the inaugural Premier League meeting. His career never matched his talent but injuries always hampered him, my abiding memory of Redknapp was changing the game when England played Scotland at Euro 96. Unfortunately during the game he injured his ankle, never to be seen again during the tournament.
Craig Burley – The 1994 meeting at Anfield was interesting for the Scotsman, he scored at both ends of the pitch with his own goal being the decisive winner.
Game Narrative
The formation clash will favour Chelsea’s 5-3-2 as they will be able to outnumber Liverpools forward line, the problem stems from the talent within the away sides defence. Chalobah especially is a weak link and surely will be targeted by the hosts. Going forward Chelsea will be able to field their new recruits who will be potent but unsure of Potters tactics, expect dynamic performances but the well drilled, experienced hosts should grind out a better all round display.
The One to Watch – Cody Gakpo
The Dutchman understandably is taking his time to settle in at Anfield, it’s been a manic few months for him considering his participation at the World Cup and now trying to acclimatise in a new country. Playing off the left he faces a good match up Saturday taking on Azpilicueta and whoever lines up at right sided centre back.
Bournemouth v Nottingham Forest
The Cherries won the reverse fixture in September, if you told me back then how both sides are faring now I would have been surprised, mainly by Forest. Steve Cooper now knows his strongest line up and is continuing to field it. Bournemouth on the other hand are stretched playing wise, low in confidence which has led to a four game run without a goal. New signing Ouattara may feature, the Cherries need him to hit the ground running.
PL Fixture Icons
This is only the second time they have met despite previous top flight experience, so rather than pick icons of the fixture I have picked former stars from their PL past.
Steve Cook – Now a squad player for Forest but before then he was a defensive mainstay for Bournemouth from League One right up to the PL. What he lacked in pace he made up for it with his positioning and organisational skills, without doubt a overachiever.
Steve Stone – Hard working wide midfielder, loved to beat his man around the outside before delivering grade A crosses. Despite three broken legs and Forests struggles he stayed loyal to the club, even gained England recognition.
Game Narrative
The Vitality has to be rocking Saturday if Bournemouth have a chance, this can only occur if Gary O’Neils troops come out at 100mph from the kick off. Piling on the pressure, starving Gibbs White or Johnson of possession for long periods will frustrate the visitors, which can lead to players like Aurier, Yates or Worrell into rash challenges. This is going to be a very fractious game, surely at least one player will be sent off.
The One to Watch – Siriki Dembele
Impressive off the bench last Saturday versus Brentford, he surely has earned a start this weekend. Pacy and tricky on the ball, if he can add delivery to his game then the goal drought may end for his club as Moore and Solanke have shown they can score at this level.
Leicester City v Brighton & Hove Albion
These two clubs have swapped roles within the Premier League, Brighton are now the hipster outfit, potential European qualifiers while you never know which Leicester will turn up! The Foxes defeat last weekend was a big blow for them, on top early on, two great chances fell to the reliable Harvey Barnes but he could not slot them away. From there Forest took over and Leicester whimpered, which happens too much this season. De Zerbi’s version of Brighton are ticking all the boxes currently, I want to see if this is a banana skin after the Liverpool result.
PL Fixture Icons
Shinji Okazaki – The Japanese cult hero scored the first when these sides met for the first time in the Premier League back in August 2017. This would become the season when the 2015/16 League winning squad started to break up.
Glenn Murray – The first two meetings between these sides ended without a Brighton scorer, Glenn Murray ended that run when he scored in November 2018 which culminated in a one all draw.
Game Narrative
Brighton will play the only way they know, tidy with the ball, energy from the flanks and thrustful when inside the attacking third. Leicesters defence cannot afford lapses in concentration if they are going to win, the defence will serve as the platform for any positive outcome. Any slip ups and this Seagulls tram will punish them.
The One to Watch – Kaoru Mitoma
Technically not the best wide forward in the league, what he lacks from that standpoint is offset by his work rate, directness and acceleration. Currently he imposes himself onto a game, never letting proceedings pass him by, truly a special player in the making.
Southampton v Aston Villa
Nathan Jones is receiving plenty of plaudits after three wins in a week including his first for the Saints in the league, all the credit though should go to James Ward Prowse who is playing at a level beyond any he has shown EVER. Villa are grinding out results under Emery which wouldn’t have occurred under Gerrard, the Spaniards appointment was a master stroke and all roads lead to a team the fans can be proud of. The departure of Ings seems strange but who comes in next should excite the Villa faithful.
PL Fixture Icons
Nicky Banger – One of the goal-scorers when Southampton recorded the first victory in the PL era between these side at the Dell in 1993. It was one of only eight he scored for his boyhood team.
Andy Townsend – His professional career began at Southampton, it was a shock when he was sold to Norwich City in 1988. He came back to haunt his old club when scoring the only goal for Aston Villa in 1996.
Game Narrative
Stopping James Ward Prowse affecting the match will be Villas main focus, very likely that honour will fall to Boubacar Kamara whom now is showing why he’s so highly rated. The bench for the visitors hosts numerous game changers like Coutinho, Samson and McGinn, I fully expect this will be how the game can be turned in their favour.
The One to Watch – Romeo Lavia
If Southampton’s captain can be shackled the young Belgian has to step up and embrace the space he could be afforded by Aston Villa’s midfield. He reminds me of Clarence Seerdoff and despite many observers saying it was madness Pep let Jesus & Zinchenko leave last summer he could be the biggest mistake of them all.
West Ham United v Everton
Both sides ended up the losers last weekend when facing fellow strugglers, this is a chance of redemption. For the managers they face old employers, David Moyes made his name in management at Everton while for Frank Lampard West Ham was where his playing career started. Sentiment will be non existent for both men, their futures are on the line. The disarray at Goodison Park is verging on pathetic, maybe relegation is the best thing for them so they can rebuild.
PL Fixture Icons
Julian Dicks – The tough tackling left back could also take a mean penalty and he stole the show in 1995 converting two giving his side the victory.
Tony Cottee – A West Ham legend but he also spent six years with Everton, joining them for a British record fee at the time. He scored notable goals for both clubs in their meetings during the mid nineties.
Game Narrative
The performance is irrelevant, winning is all that matters. It’s very likely they will both look to hit their central striker quickly with the supporting cast dining off the knockdowns. It will come down to who can capitalise on this possession within the attacking third. Both teams have been pretty toothless attacking wise which is why they are down the bottom of the league, players like Demarai Gray or Jarrod Bowen have to step up.
The One to Watch – Conor Coady
The loanee from Wolves has a major role for the away side, not just defending but drawing from all his playing experience to ensure his teammates stay calm before and during this must win game.
Crystal Palace v Newcastle United
A wonder strike from Michael Olise salvaged a draw in the week versus Manchester United, I found his reaction to scoring very strange, is their some sort of disillusion from the young stud? On the whole Palace look like a tired team devoid of ideas, Zaha constantly complains, seemingly burdened by the pressure to be the difference maker. Newcastle know who they are, consistently producing results while executing the tactics set out by Eddie Howe.
PL Fixture Icons
James McArthur – The Scotsman was not known for goals but he grabbed himself a brace when Palace recorded their largest victory over Newcastle, a 5-1 score line back in 2015.
Peter Beardsley – It’s nearly thirty years since this fixture first took place at Selhurst Park and the least likely looking footballer of all time snatched a last minute winner for the toon.
Game Narrative
The Selhurst Park crowd will be a factor but Newcastle have proven this term how mentally tough they are, most notably the away draw with Arsenal. The wide midfielders for Eddie Howes team tend to support their fullbacks in defence which is vital in stopping Palaces main strength out wide. They will accept a early goal but more than likely will look to grind their hosts down who’s defensive capabilities are questionable.
The One to Watch – Joelinton
Not one of the Crystal Palace midfield can match his physicality, speed or skill, all signs lead to a monster game for the Brazilian especially with Guimaraes out injured, he will be expected to step up. Whether it be from set pieces, swallowing up yards running with the ball or arriving late into the box a goal or two seem likely.
Leeds United v Brentford
Their is no love lost between both sets of supporters which stems from previous matches in the Championship, bragging rights last season belonged to Leeds. At the GTech in September Brentford won 5-2 but the score line was inflated via some late strikes. After the cup win in the week the home side will feel despite Brentford’s great form they can grab all three points.
PL Fixture Icons
As this is fourth time the clubs have met in the Premier League i have highlighted a few of the players who’ve made this clash so feisty over the years.
Yohan Barbet – Back in 2017 the Brentford defender grabbed a goal when his side won 3-1 but he’s mainly remembered for mocking Leeds player Samuel Saiz for his height when they had a coming together. https://youtu.be/Tbvesi59RuQ
Pontus Jansson – Still currently Brentford’s club captain before joining the West London side he was beloved at Elland Road. His departure was not a loving divorce and in recent meetings visibly belittled Leeds fans.
Stuart Dallas – Frustrated by his lack of game time at Brentford the northern Irish international left for Leeds and much like Jansson above has shown his discord for his former employers. This come to a head the night Leeds won promotion https://youtu.be/-TWe4LyReRw
Game Narrative
The visitors will likely revert back to the 5-3-2 formation which after some heavy defeats earlier in the season has been a success since beating City at the Etihad. They will need the numbers behind the ball to nullify Leeds while looking to pounce on the counter attack. Jesse Marsch will once again hope Gnonto can cause havoc from the left plus another positive is they also have focal points down the middle in the returning Bamford, Rodrigo and new signing Rutter.
The One to Watch – Rasmus Kristensen
Rico Henry could be missing for Brentford and the powerful Danish international will feel he can impose his game on proceedings rather than be dictated to. His runs from deep and delivery from the byline could be priceless.
Manchester City v Wolverhampton Wanderers
Thursday nights win over Spurs could be a turning point for City as they can start believing they can burst into a lengthy winning run. They are playing before Arsenal so can close the gap to two points which will play on Artetas mind before they take on United. Wolves will take solace on the fact similar sides to them have taken points after playing at the Etihad. The continuing question mark is their ability to score goals, only four have been scored in the last five games and they will certainly need to score at least two if a win is possible Sunday.
PL Fixture Icons
Carlos Tevez – The Argentian made a impact at all of his Premier League clubs and even though he may not be considered a legend at any of them he is one within the context of the league. Playing for City he loved facing Wolves, scoring four in three games.
Colin Cameron – This fixture was first played in 2003, the Scottish midfielder grabbed the only goal at Moulineux. Cameron’s legacy at Wolves was they never lost a game when he scored.
Game Narrative
Predicting a Pep line up is impossible with all the talent at City’s disposal but it’s certain they will control possession and when facing Wolves will aim to separate their centre backs for midfielders to run into the gaps. Kilman is comfortable on the ball but lacks speed while Collins is combative and tactically naive. On the flip side Lopetegui apart from parking the bus will aim to exploit Nathan Ake at left back with pacy wide men like Hwang and Traore.
The One to Watch – Pablo Sarabia
The new signing from PSG may not start the game but brings to the table top level technical ability and goal scoring prowess from midfield. His big game experience will be invaluable for the rest of the season but his new fans will hope his impact is immediate.
Arsenal v Manchester United
The game of the weekend is also arguably the headline fixture during the whole Premier League era, for so long it was Ferguson v Wenger but now the rivals are Ten Hag and Arteta, this will be a head to head for many years to come! Arsenal will feel hard done by how the game earlier this season ended and they’ve shown grudges are held from top to bottom at the club. Goals will surely be scored as both defend from the front.
PL Fixture Icons
Nicolas Anelka – His Arsenal career was not a long one but during the late nineties when the rivalry was hitting new levels he scored three goals, resulting in two wins and a draw, the epitome of big game player.
Lee Sharpe – At the start of the Premier League Arsenal struggled at times, they certainly disliked the sight of the playboy out on the left who helped himself to three goals during the first three years of match ups.
Game Narrative
The moment Casemiro was booked on Wednesday night Mikael Arteta would have begun scheming how he can benefit from the gaps in front of the United back four. Whoever plays there now is a massive downgrade on the Brazilian. Key beneficiary of course is Odegaard but look out for Nketiah or even Trossard coming deep into that zone and Saka or Martinelli driving into the central striking role. A fun fight will be between Fernandes and Zinchenko who both are allowed to roam around the pitch and surely will find themselves in the same zones seeking the ball.
The One to Watch – Christian Eriksen
The reason he has been a success at Old Trafford is due to being so selfless for the team. As good technically as anyone wearing a United shirt he instead looks to support progressively with swift passing between the lines for others to attack defences. With Arsenal concentrating on stopping Rashford, Weghorst, Fernandes or Antony the Dane may well find himself in space to test Aaron Ramsdale from outside the box.
Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur
Spurs seem to be enjoying playing away this season but on the flip side Fulham have always enjoyed their best results at home so under the Monday Night Lights this could be very entertaining match. Their is also a distinct fact that the hosts understand what their coach wants from them while Conte has no idea who to select each game within his rigid system which leads to the inconsistent performances.
PL Fixture Icons
Slyvian Legwinski – Loftus Road played host to the first Fulham victory over Spurs in the Premier League back in Sept 2002 with the Frenchman Legwinski scoring a ninetieth minute winner. A prototypical french midfielder, tall, strong but technically proficient.
Gus Poyet – It’s hard not to smile when you think about the Uruguayan, very different to his compatriots who’ve played in Europe, Poyet always was smiling. Spurs first win at Craven Cottage in the PL era was in March 2002 and Gus scored the second that day.
Game Narrative
Fulham will definitely look to pile pressure onto Hugo Lloris, he is making errors every game. The cross rate will not increase from the usual high levels but the shots from outside the box will, both Willian and Pereria strike a very sweet ball. Spurs will strive to stay in the game as long as possible and rely on Kane or Kulusevski to produce a moment of magic.
The One to Watch – Cristian Romero
Ultra aggressive but comfortable in possession, the Argentinian has all the skillsets to be one of the best defenders in the league and will love the war against Mitrovic. One or both could be sent off and score.
Premier League Player Power Rankings
Prior to the World Cup Manchester United had no one in the top ten now they have the top two plus Casemiro at six. Former number one Almiron is dropping swiftly and needs a positive performance this weekend. Players pushing the top ten forcefully are Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney, Kaoru Mitoma and Bruno Fernandes:
- Marcus Rashford non mover
- Luke Shaw up 2
- Harry Kane down 1
- Erling Haaland down 1
- Kieran Trippier up 2
- Casemiro up 3
- Martin Odegaard new entry
- Granit Xhaka down 2
- James Ward Prowse new entry
- Miguel Almiron down 5
Just think Christmas was a month ago but Premier League clubs will be looking to serve belated gifts in the form of new players before January finishes to either push on for honours or survival.
