Leeds United vs Norwich City
Leeds, wow! They were bad in their Premier League match against Aston Villa. I didn’t like what the manager said after the game either – he said he didn’t realise the players were that stressed. They played well against Leicester, but they got absolutely smashed by Villa.
This is a must-win cup final for Leeds. They have to win. I don’t know how many more chances we’re going to give Norwich, but they could cause some problems. You don’t know which Norwich will turn up, and you don’t know which Leeds will turn up either.
The shackles will be off for Norwich. But Leeds are under a lot of pressure and I don’t know if they can handle it. Patrick Bamford is back, and his return could give Leeds and their fans the boost they need. A draw wouldn’t be great for Leeds, but it’s a likely result this weekend.
Prediction: Leeds United 1-1 Norwich City
Everton vs Wolverhampton Wanderers
Everton have to win this game. They have Wolves and Newcastle at home coming up, and they need at least four points from these two games. I don’t see how Everton are going to get that big Premier League result this season.
The thing with Wolves again is that you don’t know what team you’re going to play. Every team will be looking at Ruben Neves now – he’s a proper player. Wolves are the better team at the moment, and Everton will be in big trouble if they lose this game.
Prediction: Everton 1-2 Wolverhampton Wanderers
West Ham United vs Aston Villa
Aston Villa are playing really well at the moment. Philippe Coutinho’s hit the ground running in the Premier League, and he’s settled quicker than snow. He’s putting himself in the shop window in the transfer market. Coutinho hasn’t enjoyed his football for four years and now he’s playing with a smile on his face. If I was him, I’d sign for Aston Villa.
This is a big game. Three weeks ago, you’d think this is a give-me game for West Ham. But Villa are in a real vein of form now, and they’ve done well under Steven Gerrard. West Ham will probably have one eye on their game against Sevilla, and I’m going to back Aston Villa to pull off a bit of an upset here.
Prediction: West Ham United 1-2 Aston Villa
Southampton vs Watford
I was quite shocked by Southampton’s result this week. But Watford, oh! Roy Hodgson must be pulling all his hair out – they just can’t defend. I thought Watford had a few results in them but they’ve been poor.
Southampton created a lorry-load of chances against Newcastle and they can be impressive on their day. I’d back Southampton to win this game comfortably.
Prediction: Southampton 3-0 Watford
Arsenal vs Leicester City
Leicester have turned a bit of a corner, but they’ll have to do without Jamie Vardy this week. Youri Tielemans could be on the move this summer – Brendan Rodgers has made him a much better player. He hasn’t signed a contract as yet, and I think he’ll be on his way.
The football Arsenal played last week was breathtaking. They could put severe pressure on United and Spurs in the top-four race with a victory. This game will be tight, but I’d expect Arsenal to win this game.
Prediction: Arsenal 3-1 Leicester City
Crystal Palace vs Manchester City
This is a hard game for Manchester City. They were outstanding last week against Manchester United. I think I nearly called that result, didn’t I? City are a bit open on the counter, and I think Patrick Vieira will look to exploit that this weekend.
Crystal Palace are a better opponent than United for Manchester City, believe it or not. They know exactly what they’re doing, and they’re a proper team. Palace will sit back and break with pace and energy.
This is going to be a good game. I’m going to back Manchester City to win, but I don’t think this will be a walk in the park.
Prediction: Crystal Palace 2-1 Manchester City