CRYSTAL PALACE vs BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION (1230 ko) The battle of the A23 sees the Seagulls migrate to Fort Erneef for their big annual awayday. But it might not be annual for much longer if Brighton don’t arrest their recent slide down the table. It was not so long ago that the fortunes of these sides were in stark contrast to their present positions. There’s little to suggest – apart from Brighton’s victory over Huddersfield last time out – that this is about to change. Home win.
CARDIFF CITY vs WEST HAM UNITED Yummy, yummy. This should be a straightforward three points. Some people never learn. Amid rumours of strife in the Cardiff dressing room, we visit with a strong squad to choose from but less than encouraging recent away form. Colin will, as ever, strive to breathe desire and commitment into his team. Pelle’s approach is likely to be more tactical. This should make for a lively encounter. Expect the Bluebirds to start strongly while we build patiently towards what should end as an (adjective withheld) away win.
HUDDERSFIELD TOWN vs BOURNEMOUTH With nothing to cheer and two months still to endure, it’s all about chinks of hope for the Terriers now. The away record of today’s visitors could offer just such a chink – Bournemouth have lost their last nine on the road. But the Cherries won’t just offer themselves for the picking, particularly after last week’s creditable performance and narrow defeat to Man City. They’re safe in all but arithmetic and there’s little but pride for either side to play for today. Draw.
LEICESTER CITY vs FULHAM All eyes will be on Brendan Rodgers as he takes charge of Leicester at home for the first time. Unfortunate, again, for the hapless Fulham, who look almost certain to join Huddersfield in the Championship next season, they face a side with new boss syndrome. Scott Parker says they’ll give it they have got. They’ll need that, and more. Home win.
NEWCASTLE UNITED vs EVERTON Love him or loathe him, Rafa’s done a superb job in steering Newcastle out of the drop zone towards security. The job is far from done yet, as last week’s defeat in Stratford showed, but they’re on the right tracks. Everton fans will be less sure that they are and face a stern test this afternoon. Draw.
SOUTHAMPTON vs TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR It’s looking increasingly like a battle between the Saints and Cardiff for the last relegation place. The Saints have goal difference and two points in their favour and will hope that we do them a good turn today. We would doubtless appreciate the compliment returned against a Spurs side without the former Southampton manager on their bench. Poor chap. It’s as intriguing at the top of the table as it is in its nether region. Expect the Saints to give it a good go this afternoon. Draw.
MANCHESTER CITY vs WATFORD (1730 KO) It’s a testament to City’s strength in depth that they seem able to put out a table-topping strong side even when missing some of the current Premier League greats. Learn that lesson, Herr Klopp. Watford rarely set out with defence their main strategy. They may be tempted to do so today, but whatever their approach, their hosts are likely to be too strong. Home win.
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