The Premier League continues to thrill fans around the world and week 34 is unlikely to be any different, writes DEAN WORKMAN.
Seven things to expect from this weekend’s Premier League action:
1) Manchester derby to thrill
With both Manchester teams playing two games over the coming days, Man United in a Premier League game against Burnley, and City against Arsenal in the FA Cup, they will undoubtedly each have one eye on their titanic clash on Thursday night next week. The game could prove critical in the race for a top-four spot, a win for Jose Mourinho’s men could see them leapfrog the Citizens, who will be hoping to win and extend their gap over their cross-town rivals. Expect a tight encounter, which could be settled by a moment of magic by one of the stars on show.
2) Spurs to keep pressure on Chelsea
Tottenham Hotspurs travel to take on Crystal Palace this game week, and will be hoping to continue their good run of form. After cutting down Chelsea’s lead at the top of the table to only 4 points, Spurs will be looking for the three points in an attempt to chase down the leaders and win their first-ever Premier League trophy. Expect Mauricio Potchetino’s men to continue their winning run by overcoming the Eagles.
3) Hull to edge Watford
Hull City host Watford at the Kcom stadium this game week in a game which could prove pivotal in the battle at the bottom end of the table. Hull City are only two points above the relegation zone, and will be desperate to gain another three points and stay clear of Swansea City, who sits just below them. Expect Hull to go all-out for a home victory over a side that does not have much left to play for.
4) Bournemouth to sink Boro
With both teams battling it out at the bottom of the league, this weekend’s encounter is of the utmost importance for both teams. Eddie Howe’s men will be looking to pick up the points at home as they try to secure their Premier League status for next year, whereas Steve Agnew’s men simply can’t afford to lose, as they are still six points adrift from safety. Expect the Cherries to take full advantage of the home crowd, picking up the three points and pushing Boro ever closer to the drop.
5) Ozil to shine for the Gunners
Mesut Ozil has been in a good run of form for Arsenal going into their clash with Leicester City at the Emirates. The German has scored two goals and bagged two assists in his last five games, and with Arsene Wenger’s men desperate for the three points, expect Ozil to have yet another positive contribution.
6) Chelsea to bounce back
Chelsea will be looking to bounce back after being comprehensively outplayed and beaten last weekend against Manchester United. Having seen their lead at the top reduced to only four points, Antonio Conte’s men will be desperate to avoid another set-back that could leave Spurs within striking distance. Expect Chelsea to be solid at the back and beat Southampton at Stamford Bridge.
7) Battle of the bottom two
Boro host fellow basement dwellers Sunderland on Wednesday night, in what will be Middlesbrough’s second game of the scheduled game week. The bottom two have been struggling for points and struggling for goals. So when they clash at the Riverside Stadium, expect a tight encounter which could end in a 0-0 draw and could effectively signal the end of both teams’ fight for survival.
