If you thought last weekend was interesting, this weekend will get your biscuits in a tizzy(nuts). Manchester United and Chelsea face off in what promises to be an incredible game at Stamford Bridge. Ronaldo(look at those shoes) has been pressuring Alex Ferguson(we don't have to use the Sir in America) to let him start. It's unlikely that he could go the full 90, but anybody who saw him against Villareal knows that they are a much better team every second he is on the pitch. Get a sitter, turn off your mobile(cell phone) and grab a pint(one and 1/3 of a beer) because this is a big one.Middlesbrough at Sunderland: Sunderland need 3 from this game, and Boro do not usually perform well away from home. Chopra is available for Sunderland, and a partnership with Cisse is possible. Alves and Mido have worked well together so far, and this should be a tight game.
Sunderland 2-1
Newcastle at West Ham: Two teams in chaos, they could both field a starting XI of injured players. Zola will want a win to get off to a positive start in front of a home crowd, but with Ashton injured it will be hard. Newcastle might enjoy playing away, and they could grab a point.
Tie 2-2
Fulham at Blackburn: After a bright start, Blackburn have sank and David Dunn's injury will only make things worse. Fulham have looked positive, but backing them away from home is like backing a dog in water. This match could come down to Santa Cruz vs. Zamora.
Tie 1-1
Stoke at Liverpool: Liverpool keep leaving it late, but they shouldn't have any of those problems against Stoke. Stoke seem to be a one trick pony, but Delap's throw ins are a hell of a trick. The only two questions for Liverpool will be if they can keep a clean sheet, and how many?
Liverpool 3-0
Arsenal at Bolton: Arsenal always have trouble with this fixture, and they will be tired from a brusing match in Kiev. Megson has tried to make Bolton into more of a fluid side, but he may focus on long ball and physical tactics in this match. I would expect to see a few cards in this one.
Arsenal 2-0
Aston Villa at WBA: The battle of Birmingham, this could turn out to be a tough match. With Carew and Young injured, Villa will have to change their attack plan. West Brom have looked better with each week, and every point counts in the battle against relegation.
Tie 1-1
Everton at Hull: The first question is which Everton side will show up? With Cahill fit we should see the good one, though there are still questions about the back line and Anichebe's hurt. Hull have momentum, but they'll need a strong midfield performance and a tight back line.
Everton 2-1
Portsmouth at Man City: Both these teams have been inconsistent, and it will be interesting to see whether this game stays low and tight or becomes a high scoring affair. Jo found his form in midweek, and Defoe continues to be hot. Look for plenty of pace, and a few goals.
Man City 3-1
Wigan at Tottenham: If any team needs a win, it's Tottenham. If they weren't stuck in last place I'd wonder if they knew which way was up. Modric's injury won't help things, but should make for an open game. Wigan will be rested and ready, but this game is too big for Tottenham.
Tottenham 2-1
Man U at Chelsea: Chelsea's record at home is well known, and a win would open up a sizable gap. With Berbatov and Ronaldo not fully fit and Vidic suspended, Man U have a lot of questions. Fergie will try to slow the game down, but an extra day's rest will help Chelsea push the tempo.
Chelsea 2-1
One Liners
- Kroenke joins Arsenal's board, hairpiece comes with him
- Ronaldo still claiming Man City is after him, talks that they may sign Rivaldo as well
- Alan Smith out for 3 months with fracture, authorities looking in to working conditions at Newcastle
- Scolari plays down talks of Moscow revenge, Abramovich in background bends metal
- Melchiot claims Tottenham missing leadership, everyone on Tottenham looks around to see who is supposed to respond
