Focus returns to the Premier League over the weekend after a glut of midweek European action and it could be a pivotal few days in the title race.
Liverpool’s relentless run of wins of late has seen them remain top after having played a game more than Man City, with the Reds hoping for and awaiting that single slip-up from Pep Guardiola’s men.
This weekend could be the one which brings that game, particularly after City’s midweek exertions on a physical and mental level.
Elsewhere, a full complement of 10 games take place around the country across the coming days; here’s a look at what’s on show.
Man City vs. Tottenham – Saturday, 12.30pm – Sky Sports Main Event
Just days after the incredible Champions League quarter-final second leg, Man City and Tottenham face-off at the Etihad once more.
The question remains; how will the defeat affect Guardiola’s side?
It could galvanise their title charge… or deflate it altogether.
Spurs will give them a right old game again and should create enough opportunities to snatch a point – making the title Liverpool’s to lose.
Prediction: Man City 2-2 Tottenham
Huddersfield vs. Watford – Saturday, 3pm
Not one for the neutral, this.
Huddersfield sit in Premier League purgatory, waiting for the season to end, fresh off the back of yet another belting.
Meanwhile, the Hornets look to bounce back to winning ways after their 1-0 loss against Arsenal.
With Javi Gracia’s men right in the mix for the coveted seventh spot, this will be nothing more than a case of how many.
Prediction: Huddersfield 0-3 Watford
West Ham vs. Leicester – Saturday, 3pm
This time just five years ago, Brendan Rodgers and Manuel Pellegrini were fighting it out for the Premier League title.
Rodgers’ revival at Leicester hit a roadblock last week at home to Newcastle.
But West Ham’s inability to keep a clean sheet will buoy the Foxes and, given Pellegrini will have to go for it at home, Jamie Vardy will be licking his lips.
Prediction: West Ham 1-2 Leicester
Bournemouth vs. Fulham – Saturday, 3pm
If there’s any game for Dom Solanke to break his duck, it will be this one.
Both Bournemouth and Fulham head into the clash after comprehensive victories, but for Scott Parker, the feel-good factor will be over come Saturday evening.
The Whites have been atrocious at the back all season and expect it to reappear on the road.
Bournemouth hit five against Brighton and could well go close again.
Prediction: Bournemouth 4-1 Fulham
Wolves vs. Brighton – Saturday, 3pm
This is an enormous game for Brighton, who fell closer to the mire whilst eyes were on the Champions League.
Chris Hughton’s team need points and quickly.
Wolves look close to, if not on, the beach already, boding well for Liverpool come May 12.
With Raul Jimenez and Diogo Jota buzzing around the front line they should still have enough to sneak past Brighton.
Prediction: Wolves 1-0 Brighton
Newcastle vs. Southampton – Saturday, 5.30pm – BT Sport 1
Rafa Benitez has ensured Newcastle are now safe for another season, while, their weekend rivals are almost out of the woods—but need an extra win to make sure.
The long trip up north provides headaches for Southampton, as Newcastle won’t just roll over.
Given their respective good run of performances, both sides should hit the scoresheet and share the points.
Prediction: Newcastle 1-1 Southampton
Everton vs. Man United – Sunday 1.30pm – Sky Sports Main Event
Man United on Merseyside is always a big occasion and the clash at Goodison is no exception.
It seems no-one’s at the wheel for United currently, as they struggle to keep up in the race for the top four.
Everton embarrassingly went and lost away to Fulham, so both sides are out for redemption.
Either side are liable to concede an unnecessary goal and, with the Park End in full voice, Everton will make life tough for the Red Devils. Rarely do they actually do that though.
Prediction: Everton 1-1 Man United
Arsenal vs. Crystal Palace – Sunday 4pm
The week’s only London derby should be a formality for Unai Emery’s men.
They were lucky to escape Vicarage Road with a win, but now sit fourth and in control of their own destiny.
Palace were made to look abject against City and will see very little of the ball once again. Wilf Zaha could cause Arsenal’s rearguard issues with his trickery and power.
That said, Arsenal are one of the best home sides and will top anything Palace muster.
Prediction: Arsenal 2-0 Crystal Palace
Chelsea vs. Burnley – Monday 8pm – Sky Sports Main Event
Chelsea return to home comforts after their 2-0 loss at Anfield, against a revitalised Burnley side who now look safe.
If Maurizio Sarri plays a false nine again there could be problems for Chelsea, given how stout Sean Dyche’s defence will be.
If he returns Eden Hazard to the left, there will be plenty of fear in Claret minds.
The Blues impressed in the second half at Anfield and will keep pace with the top four in style.
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