In America, College Basketball is entering into a period called “March Madness”, the Premier League is marching towards the finish line with twelve more matchweeks and two months to go. Arsenal have played their game in hand on City and top the table by five points. Peps men can reduce that lead for a few hours as they start the weekend on BT Sport:
Manchester City v Newcastle United
A month or so ago this could have been viewed as a tight one to call, City were continually offering lacklustre displays while Newcastle were imperious but Eddie Howes sides drop in form has reminded us they were over performing especially prior to the World Cup break. Manchester City still have their moments but as they approach the business end of the season, the good days well outnumber the mediocre.
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David Brightwell – His only goal for Manchester City was the winner back in April 94 (2-1), the son of Olympic gold medalist Ann Packer is now a fireman. The majority of Brightwells career was spent performing in the EFL.
Alan Shearer – Newcastles first away victory over City did not occur till September 2000 (0-1), as usual for the Toon at that time Shearer was the difference.
Game Narrative
Newcastles well drilled defence will look to penetrate the opposition as usual, the big ask is if their out of sorts attack can offer anything when they do gain possession. Issak is the prime candidate to turn around the attacking third fortunes for Eddie Howes charges. City will most definitely look to target Dan Burn who offers nothing as a fullback, he falls below most metrics compared to his peers, basically he’s a wide centre back who is asked to clear and head the ball away in his zone. I fully expect Riyad Mahrez to start and possibly Kyle Walker to pile pressure on Burn along with overloads coming from the home sides central midfielders.
The One to Watch – Ilkay Gundogan
Arguably one of the cleverest footballers in the world which is why Pep calls on him so often, especially in big games. So many of his skilled and physical traits are above average what sets him apart is his ability to be in the right place whether it be pressing the ball, available for a pass or arriving into a scoring position. Breaking down a side like Newcastle is the sort of game the German thrives in.
Arsenal v Bournemouth
The Gunners have found their swagger again which does not bode well for the struggling Cherries. Three wins on the bounce makes the winless run preceding that a distant memory. It’s only two weeks since Bournemouth beat Wolves away but that too seems long ago as the defeat at home to Manchester City showed the usual deficiencies with the main one being a total lack of confidence. Gary O’Neills team always seem defeated before a ball is even kicked.
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Mesut Ozil – Once upon a time the German was considered one of the worlds most promising players but he never kicked on at either Real Madrid or Arsenal, only showing rare glimpses of his talent. One of those times was December 2015 when he totally dominated newly promoted Bournemouth scoring one and assisting another one (2-0).
Callum Wilson – During their two spells in the Premier League, Bournemouth have been a punching bag for the top sides. The highlight of their November 2016 visit to the Emirates was scoring there for the first time via Wilson’s penalty (3-1).
Game Narrative
The game script for the home side will be their usual fare, plenty of possession and lightning movement off the ball. The big question is how can Bournemouth disrupt or even spring a major upset? Taking a leaf out of Brentford’s performance last month would best fit them which will involve aiming long balls towards one of Arsenals best players this season, William Saliba. The Frenchman was very imposing early in the season but has showed chinks in his armoury this calendar year, aerially he struggles and does not enjoy players running directly at him. Kieffer Moore has to start Saturday he will undoubtably keep Saliba honest plus help defensively from corners.
The One to Watch – Dominic Solanke
Two assists in his last two games now just needs to be improved upon by scoring his first since returning from injury. With Bournemouth pacing towards relegation, Solanke has to see the next few months as a showcase for other Premier League clubs to possibly take him on next season.
Aston Villa v Crystal Palace
Two of the most uninspiring teams in the league will either offer up a cracker Saturday or a last match on MOTD display. I am leaning towards the latter based on previous form. Crystal Palace are in danger of wasting time under Patrick Vierra, they have a handful of cracking players who are being held back by the Frenchman’s tactics, currently they are on track to finish mid table when they should be aiming higher especially in cup completions. Palace are standing still with so many weapons, to me history will show they missed a chance to create something special, while their former players succeed elsewhere.
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Stephen Froggatt- The Aston Villa youth product was a old style left midfielder who loved to beat his defender on the outside before whipping in deadly crosses. If he played these days he would more likely be asked to play left back as his attributes would not sort most sides 4-3-3. He only scored two goals for Villa, one of them coming in September 1992 (3-0).
Dwight Gayle – Too good for the Championship but not good enough for the Premier League was Gayles constant label. Palaces only away win in this fixture occurred December 2013 (0-1) with Gayle grabbing a injury time winner.
Game Narrative
Due to injuries Palace have been unable to field their terrific trio Olise, Zaha and Eze but setting them loose on Aston Villa could be very beneficial. All three love to run at defenders, they could find joy if they centre their attentions on Tyrone Mings, so far this season he has only won 44.4% of his duels when players dribble at him. Leon Bailey like his Palace counterparts will be looked upon to stretch the visitors defence with his direct running, one thing his supporters will not want is him passing the ball during his progressive carries, this is not one his strengths which is underlined by league stats (currently sitting in the bottom 4%).
The One to Watch – John McGinn
The midfield bully has fallen below the standards which saw him linked with some of the countries best clubs a few years ago but since Emery came to the club he has shown some improvement. Still to score a goal this season his Xg sits at 1.3 so he is due to hit the net very soon, why not Saturday within this tight encounter.
Brighton & Hove Albion v West Ham United
The question for West Ham will be was last weekends thrashing of Nottingham Forest the start of a new dawn or a freak score line. Visiting The Amex is as tough a follow up as you can get this season, since losing Graham Potter they have been one of the in form teams. Couple this with the fact they had a week off due to Newcastle taking part in the Carabeo Cup Final, rejuvenated, hungry and confident are not characteristics you want to face from a opposing team in March.
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Jose Izquierdo- The diminutive Colombian struggled with injuries throughout his career. He joined Brighton for a club record fee but only managed 48 games in four years before being released. One of the bright points was his goal in February 2018 enabling his side to win (3-1), his copy book was blotted though as he was booked too.
Chicharito – The Mexican is mainly remembered for his spell at Manchester United, when at West Ham he was never fully supported by management, consistently in and out of the team. While at the Hammers he scored two years on the trot at the Amex, once when losing in 2018 but earning his team a point when hitting the net in August 2019 (1-1).
Game Narrative
The midfield battle is where this game will be won, both teams engine room units are littered with talent but the key man among them all is Moises Caicedo. He leads Brightons midfielders in passes completed within each bracket (short 91.7%, medium 90.3% and long 83.5%) which is a frightening proposition considering what he can offer defensively and attacking also. With Pervis Estupinan possibly missing this fixture West Ham will look to build the majority of attacks from their right hand side.
The One to Watch – Said Benrahma
Fresh off his cracking goal in the FA Cup game at Old Trafford the Algerian will look to carry on his impressive 2023 form this weekend. When running with the ball he tends to attract multiple players towards him, if he can see enough of the ball against Brighton it could lead to his diversion being key for a away win.
Chelsea v Leeds United
Something has to give on Saturday, neither side hit the net with any regularity but create so much, is this the week one or both finds the goal scoring answer? If you believe the tabloid press Graham Potter had two games to show improvement prior to the Spurs match, well Chelsea lost that one so this is possibly last chance salon. The hosts are at the point where only the result matters, a poor performance is irrelevant, getting over the line is all that counts right now.
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Mark Hughes – Every week when I research this segment Hughes pops up with goals for all his former clubs, I could not ignore his contribution in April 1996 as he helped himself to a hatrick (4-1), the largest score line in this fixture. Their is no doubt the Welshman was one of the top players of his day.
Anthony Yeboah – Largely remembered for spectacular goals especially that volley against Liverpool at Elland Road, he can also boast a impressive game/ goal ratio of 1 in 2. The relationship at Leeds only lasted two and half years as ultimately he fell out with George Graham. Back in March 1995 he led Leeds to their first away PL victory against Chelsea with two goals (0-3).
Game Narrative
With no Thiago Silva for the foreseeable future and N’Golo Kante returning this could be a good chance to reset the formation and possibly fortunes. Chelsea can ensure another forward thinking player is on the pitch while throwing out Leeds game plan. Javi Gracia was able to grab a debut win last weekend by using the same set of players, the secret to that success was setting the team out to be less gung-ho and tactically disciplined. The Leeds bus will be parked in front of the goal at Stamford Bridge while hoping the pocket rocket Gnonto can spearhead the counter.
The One to Watch – Patrick Bamford
Never given a chance at Chelsea this would be a ideal time to show the fans at Stamford Bridge what they missed out on. Since Bamford made his international bow in 2021 he has struggled with injuries and form, subsequently Leeds have struggled. It’s likely he will be starved of the ball for long periods Saturday so his ability to hold up the ball when he receives it will be vital.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Tottenham Hotspur
Both clubs are sleep walking towards the end of the season hoping they can gain enough points to survive or qualify for the Champions League respectively. Spurs last four wins have been built on the fact they did not concede and they will feel pretty confident they can prevent goal shy Wolves from scoring. Both teams lost in midweek but Spurs defeat was more damaging in regards to fan happiness, Kane & Co need to make it up to them.
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David Jones – A workmanlike player, the current setup would love to have a no nonsense man like him anchoring their midfield allowing the skilled players to thrive. His only goal in the 09/10 season came that February when Wolves gained their first home victory over Spurs (1-0).
Robbie Keane – At 17 Keane scored two goals on his debut for Wolves, over the years he came back to haunt his first club numerous times. Spurs first Premier League win at Moulineux occurred in May 2004 (2-0) with the Irishman scoring the first, that season he also helped himself to a hatrick at White Hart Lane.
Game Narrative
The home side need to start fast and with purpose like when they beat Liverpool. Spurs showed in midweek when losing in the FA Cup if you hassle them in all thirds of the pitch they become disheveled, this is what Leicester did to them a few weeks ago. To counter Wolves tactic Emerson Royal and Ivan Perisic have to stay wide at all times becoming the outball. When in possession they will look to attack the byline with cutbacks rather than deep crosses as Craig Dawson will deal with them all afternoon.
The One to Watch – Joao Moutinho
The veteran Portuguese midfielder is needed to guide Wolves to safety before he leaves this summer. Too much pressure is on Ruben Neves currently, he needs someone else to step up in those key moments. Moutinho matches up well against Hojberg as he will frustrate the Dane with his ball retention and busy tackling plus he can deliver a killer dead ball.
Southampton v Leicester City
The carrot for Southampton is if they beat Leicester this weekend they will be three points behind the Foxes. Under new manager Ruben Selles they have become more competitive when pressing and tackling. Fans will be disappointed they had to endure the awful Nathan Jones era which has made this relegation scrap so difficult to navigate.
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Francis Benali – In 311 games for his home town club he only scored once and it came in December 1997 (2-1), the Saints first home victory over Leicester. What was even crazier is the 5ft 9 in left back hit the net with a header!
Muzzy Izzet – The classic 90s Leicester team had a core set of players and Izzet was one of them, when you think of that side he is one of the first names. When they achieved their first away win in April 2000 (1-2) the Turkish international was on hand to deliver the second goal.
Game Narrative
Pre match talk will pit James Ward-Prowse against James Maddison and rightly so as they are the culture setters on the pitch for both clubs. Maddison has well outperformed his Xg this season, he sits on nine goals off a predicted four! The game tempo is built off the England internationals but it’s the supporting cast who will hold the trump card Saturday night. It’s gang warfare and the side which has more men performing at seven out of ten levels should be victorious. Bypassing the Southampton press in front of their own fans will be a difficult proposition, Leicester have the skilled players to do it and isolate weak links like Bednarek and Perraud. This is when a high tempo striker like Jamie Vardy can take over and enable the game is played in Southamptons half.
The One to Watch – Ainsley Maitland-Niles
The on loan Arsenal player has finally been given a chance to start matches and is not letting his manager down. He possess a delightful combination of fitness and pace but also very proficient in possession. Defending will be his prime memo Saturday night but their is no doubt he can be a difference maker coming from deep on the overlap.
Nottingham Forest v Everton
The six pointers keep coming and this one will be great fun, mainly as it’s being played at The City Ground. Forest fans have made their stadium one of the most imposing in the league this season and will fancy their chances Sunday afternoon. Sean Dyche needs to take the gloves off and come out fighting as sitting back will only energise the hosts.
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Stuart Pearce – The legendary left back wore his heart on his sleeve and was so loyal to Forest during the 90s despite difficult times. It’s natural when they beat Everton for the first time at home in March 1995 he was on the scoresheet (2-1).
Paul Rideout – Three years before his FA Cup winning goal for Everton against Manchester United the much travelled target man was the match winner in November 1992, the first Premier League encounter between these famous clubs (0-1).
Game Narrative
Everton are hard to breakdown but have nothing to offer attacking wise once they concede, so quite simply any success Sunday will occur if Jordan Pickfords goal is not penetrated first. Sean Dyche will look to man mark Brennan Johnson and Morgan Gibbs-White, with those roles likely to be given to Ben Godfrey (he was magnificent when taking on Erling Haaland) and Idrissa Gueye. The hosts as mentioned before will rely on the surroundings to drive them all but should be wary emotions do not get the better of them.
The One to Watch – Jonjo Shelvey
When facing a dogged, defensive outfit like Everton you need a man who can deliver passes between the lines and this is Shelveys main talent. His passing range is extraordinarily and it’s fair to say he should have achieved more in his career than he did.
Liverpool v Manchester United
Quite simply these clubs do not like each other whether it’s on the pitch or in the stands. Liverpool will detest Uniteds renaissance this season and take double glory if they can beat them, aiding their cause and denting their visitors. The world will be watching this weekends standout fixture, the stars are aligned for a cracking match which epitomises the leagues culture.
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Nigel Clough – Ultra technical on the ball, Clough never took the next step up successfully as he lacked speed. One of his glory days though was in January 1994 when he scored two goals against United (3-3), this was a time when Liverpool had a massive identity crisis.
Brian McClair – One of Alex Fergusons trusted lieutenants on the pitch during his early days, the title winning seasons saw his impact mainly off the bench but he started in March 1993 in a number 10 role. This was the first Premier League win at Anfield for United and Choccy (1-2) scored the second.
Game Narrative
Despite Liverpools array of attacking talent Jurgen Klopp will be scratching his head how he can impact Uniteds defence. Out wide they will face two of the inform fullbacks in Shaw and Wan-Bissaka, while down the middle Martinez and Varane are as street wise a combo you will find in Europe. If Salah & Co can gain the upper hand in any of those matchups they will create a base to keep United away from their goal for sustained periods. Trent Alexander-Arnold will expect to find Marcus Rashford around his zone at all times looking to spearhead his teams attacks, any lapse in concentration by the right back will be capitalised on.
The One to Watch – Jota
One of the canniest forwards in the league, he doesn’t seem too exciting to the naked eye but his movement is elite. He will find himself within the pockets that Casemiro occupies and overworking the Brazilian with overloads aided by one of the Liverpool midfielders will be key especially if you can get him booked early.
Brentford v Fulham
West Londons top two teams this season close off the weekend and potentially could deliver a all time classic Monday Night Football. More than points are on the line, this is for the fans. Brentford have shown under the lights on tv is when they find another gear but Fulham love nothing more than spoiling a party. The ban for betting is looming for Ivan Toney and he has shown when off field issues are hoovering his boots do the talking.
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Jota – Back in November 2014 these old rivals faced off for the first time in the Championship, the home side took the spoils (2-1) and a legend was born in the form of Jota with his last minute winner.
Joe Bryan – The left back was the Wembley hero in August 2020 with two goals in the playoff final (2-1). Due to COVID no fans were in attendance and therefore hides within both clubs histories despite the huge ramifications the game held.
Game Narrative
Manor Solomon should be starting this game due to his awesome form when coming off the bench, Aaron Hickey needs to make sure he shows his man the outside rather than infield as Solomons curling right footed drives are unstoppable. With Palhinha banned the Fulham midfield is obviously weakened out of possession, look out for Josh Dasilva or Mathias Jensen to occupy the space where the Portuguese man would have been. Both sides field giants aerially, set pieces usually are key to them scoring but it will be the recycling of the second ball which leads one to victory.
The One to Watch – David Raya
The Spaniard looks likely to be leaving Brentford this summer and has shown this season he will be a asset for any top six club. His distrubution has always been top drawer but it’s the saves he pulls out in key moments which has seen his stock rocket. On Monday his decision making at crosses will be the starting block for his side to win, if they are gathered with determination he can start the counter at speed but any mistakes and Mitrovic will capitalise.
Premier League Player Power Rankings
No new entries again but with certain teams not playing while others playing twice, we have seen a few risers and fallers:
- Marcus Rashford non mover
- Harry Kane up 1
- Bruno Fernandes down 1
- Martin Odergaard up 2
- Erling Haaland non mover
- Kieran Trippier down 2
- Bakary Saka up 2
- Luke Shaw down 1
- Kaoru Mitomo down 1
- Ben Mee non mover
When watching matches this weekend remember Oliver Giroud once said “It’s nice to be at the top but the most difficult thing is to stay at the top”.
So many historically top clubs have faltered this season while less regarded ones have pushed on, you cannot rest on your laurels in the Premier League.
