The Premier League continues to thrill fans around the world and week 24 is unlikely to be any different with Chelsea tipped to beat Arsenal, writes DEAN WORKMAN.
Seven things to expect from this weekend’s Premier League action:
1. Chelsea to beat Arsenal
Chelsea take on London rivals Arsenal at Stamford Bridge in this week’s standout fixture. This game could have a huge say on where the title ends up with the Blues looking to extend their nine point lead at the top of the table while a loss for Arsenal will throw their top four aspirations in doubt. The Gunners have notoriously struggled against the Blues and on the back of a damaging loss to Watford last time out, they will be looking to get a positive result. With Chelsea still looking in imperious form, do not expect that result to come as the Blues will likely run out winners on their home ground even if by a solitary goal
2. Spurs to bounce back
Tottenham Hotspur host Middlesbrough this weekend at White Hart Lane with Spurs coming into the game off a disappointing goalless draw with relegation-threatened Sunderland. Tottenham need a win to keep pace with Chelsea at the top of the table, while Boro will be looking to put in another solid defensive display which have become a hallmark under Aitor Karanka. Expect Spurs to get the three points as it is unlikely that their potent strike force will be shut out for a second game running.
3. Watch out Swansea!
Manchester City host a resurgent Swansea side this weekend at the Etihad. City come into the game after a resounding 4-0 win over West Ham, while Swansea beat Southampton last time out. Although Paul Clement looks to be turning things around for the Welsh club expect Pep Guardiola’s men to be too much to handle as they should walk away comfortable winners. The only thing to keep a close eye on is whether Gabriel Jesus starts ahead of Sergio Aguero once again …
4. Crouch’s form to continue
Crouch spent much of the start of the season stuck on Stoke’s bench, in recent weeks however he has fought his way back into the team, scoring four goals in his last 5 games, including his 100th Premier League goal. Expect the big man to be a menace again and he could just make it Premier League 101 this weekend.
5. Heaton to shine for Burnley
It is not often that a goalkeeper is singled out for his performances but Tom Heaton’s outstanding form for Burnley this season has been an integral part of their success. For a club of Burnley’s stature to be sitting 10th in the league with having kept 6 clean sheets is testament to the former Manchester United stoppers work in between the posts. Expect Heaton to continue his fine form this weekend!
6. Leicester’s fall to continue
Leicester City’s form this season has been dramatically different to that which saw them crowned Champions last May. This weekend they host a Manchester United team who are coming off a disappointing draw in their last game. Expect Jose Mourinho’s men to bounce back and further deepen Leicester’s woes.
7. Hull to take the fight to Klopp’s Liverpool
Hull City host a struggling Liverpool team at the KCom Stadium with Marcos Silva taking the praise for the manner in which he has reignited Hull’s survival fight. Two impressive displays against Manchester United, one in the EFL cup which they won and another in the league which they drew means the Tiger’s will have plenty of motivation to dent Liverpool’s title hopes. The Reds have been struggling since the turn of the year having only won one game, an FA Cup replay against Plymouth, and even though they drew against Chelsea last time out they are desperate for the three points. Expect Hull to make life difficult for Jurgen Klopp’s men and could just get a result out of the game.
