Weekend Preview

Saturday

Chelsea vs Bolton

 

Cole has lifted spirits at Stamford Bridge 

Chelsea have to win. It’s that simple. Joe Cole’s return seems to have given the squad a huge boost while Drogba looks as potent as ever and seems due a couple of premiership goals. Chelsea should cope with Bolton’s aggressive style fairly comfortably. Allardyce’s side is depleted with Diouf, Ben-Haim and Faye ruled out and Stelios, Nicky Hunt and Kevin Nolan all doubtful. Could be a rout.

If all else fails, at least Joe Cole can claim to have one of the most impressive websites in football

Verdict: Home win

Everton vs Man Utd

Everton have played some excellent football this year. However, since Duncan Ferguson’s days, The Toffees have generally been an easy target for Fergie’s men. While United have had well documented defensive injuries, it seems unlikely that Everton will unsettle their makeshift back four. Andrew Johnson, James Beattie, James McFadden, James Vaughan and Victor Anichebe are all injury concerns for David Moyes, potentially leaving him without an attack. Louis Saha also returns to the United squad who should help his side to continue their European momentum.

Verdict: Away win

Blackburn vs Charlton

Blackburn don’t have an awful lot to play for while Charlton are fighting for survival. However, you would expect any team of Mark Hughes’ to be motivated for any game they play.  Charlton have a great chance of getting out of the relegation zone tomorrow if they can get the three points. 

Verdict: Draw

Man City vs Aston Villa

 

Mpenza may return for City 

This game has draw written all over it. Probably just because Aston Villa are involved though. Emile Impenza might return for City which would only be positive for the home side after his obvious effect a few weeks ago. City’s home form has dipped in recent months while Villa are …. well Villa

Verdict: Draw

Middlesborough vs Tottenham

Boro seem to have hit some form at last with Viduka in inspired form up front and Downing playing some fantastic football in midfield. However spurs are a team with enough talent to be in the top six and on their day, they can outplay most in the league. It should be a good open game and is tough to call.

Verdict: Home win

Portsmouth vs Liverpool

 

Gerrard didn’t even travel to Portsmouth

Liverpool don’t seem to care about this game. After all, they’ll more than likely finish third whether they pick up 4 or 9 points from their last three games. Gerrard, Reina and Carragher didn’t even travel. Pompey have defensive doubts and are still pushing for a European place. However, Liverpool’s reserves will be keen to impress and will have talent in abundance.

Verdict: Draw

Sheffield Utd vs Watford

Another huge game at the bottom of the league.  A win for Sheffield United tomorrow would see them reach the somewhat safe tally of 38. WIth WIgan playing West Ham and Charlton with a tricky tie away to Blackburn, this weekend is crucial for Sheffield United’s survival.

Verdict: Home win

Wigan vs West Ham

Another crunch game.  It’s been a difficult few days for the Hammers but a win tomorrow would see them level on points with Wigan but behind on goal difference. Depending on other results, a win tomorrow could potentially see them leapfrog Charlton and also be level on points with Sheffield United, making their esacpe a real possibility. Biggest game of the season for both sides.

Verdict: Away win

Sunday

Arsenal vs Fulham

Barring an absolute disaster, Arsenal are guaranteed a champions league spot next year. Fulham are still hovering above the relegation pit. A win from one of their last three games should suffice. Even three draws would probably do the trick for Lawrie Sanchez. He can’t get comfortable just yet though.

Verdict: Home win

Monday

Reading vs Newcastle

 

Owen has been included in squad 

Reading continue to roll on while Newcastle have impressed in patches this season. Michael Owen may return for the Magpies. Reading deserve a European place after the season they’ve had but Newcastle will always be a tough side to put away. Should be tight

Verdict: Home win