Premier League Predictions - Gameweek 30

The Premier League makes a welcome return this weekend after an uneventful international stoppage. I recorded five correct results in Gameweek 29, but there were no perfect scores among them. I predicted wins for Everton, Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Tottenham last time out. My predictions for Gameweek 30 are as follows...

Liverpool vs Everton

Saturday 1st April 2017, 12.30

Liverpool picked up a good point in their last league outing in a 1-1 draw at Manchester City. Everton continued their fine home form with a 4-0 demolition of Hull at Goodison Park.

It was an impressive display from Jurgen Klopp's men at the Etihad, who took a deserved lead through James Milner's penalty early in the second half after Gael Clichy fouled Roberto Firmino. The Reds were pegged back, Sergio Aguero scoring, but the men from Merseyside never looked like losing and had a brilliant chance to win it, but Adam Lallana fluffed his lines.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin scored the opener against Hull, his first senior goal for the Toffees. Hull made it difficult for Everton but Tom Huddlestone was shown a straight red card for a nasty tackle on Idrissa Gueye with 18 minutes left to play, and Enner Valencia and Romelu Lukaku (2) made the Blues' advantage count.

This should be a really entertaining game between two in-form sides. Everton have a poor record at Anfield but Lukaku should cause the Reds' backline some problems. I think he'll score, but I fancy the hosts to win it with the Anfield crowd inspiring their players to victory.

Liverpool won the first Merseyside meeting of the season, back in December (Getty Images)

Prediction: 2-1

Burnley vs Tottenham

Saturday 1st April 2017, 15.00

Burnley drew 0-0 at Sunderland in their last Premier League match. Tottenham beat Southampton 2-1 at White Hart Lane.

Burnley are now six without a win and will be pleased to return to Turf Moor on Saturday after playing away at Swansea, Liverpool and Sunderland in their last three. Sean Dyche will be confident of getting something against Spurs if his side play as well as they did against Chelsea in a 1-1 draw at February.

Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli (p) were the match-winners for Mauricio Pochettino against Southampton. They were 2-0 up at half-time and defended well in the second-half despite James Ward-Prowse halving the deficit. Spurs are reliable and look really good for another top-four finish.

Having said that, I fancy Burnley to nick a point on Saturday. Dyche will have worked his players hard over the international break and they will be very organised and competitive.

Prediction: 1-1

Chelsea vs Crystal Palace

Saturday 1st April 2017, 15.00

It's three wins in a row for the league leaders after a 2-1 win at Stoke. Crystal Palace beat Watford 1-0 at home as they also recorded a third straight win.

Willian opened the scoring for Chelsea but it was 1-1 at half-time after Jon Walters equalised from the penalty spot. It was tight and edgy from there, but Gary Cahill was the hero as he netted an 87th-minute winner for Antonio Conte's team.

Troy Deeney scored an own-goal as Crystal Palace beat Watford 1-0 at Selhurst Park. It was a third win and a third clean sheet in succession for the Eagles, who are finally starting to perform for Sam Allardyce.

I can't see Palace's fine run continuing at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea are getting closer and closer to the title and they should pick up another three points towards it here.

Prediction: 2-0

Hull vs West Ham

Saturday 1st April 2017, 15.00

Hull were on the receiving end of a 4-0 scoreline at Everton a fortnight ago. West Ham lost 3-2 at home to a revitalised Leicester City.

I was at the Everton-Hull match, and I thought Hull were doing well up until Tom Huddlestone's red card. They looked fairly organised but struggled to create any meaningful chances. It was difficult for them with ten men, and they did capitulate when Enner Valencia made it 2-0. Hull had to go for it then, and Romelu Lukaku twice found space to net an injury-time brace.

West Ham lost a thrilling match against Leicester at the London Stadium. The Hammers made an awful start, 2-0 down inside seven minutes, but Manuel Lanzini made it 2-1 thirteen minutes later. Jamie Vardy made it 3-1 to Leicester before half-time, meaning Andre Ayew's second-half strike was a mere consolation for Slaven Bilic's men.

West Ham have had an inconsistent season and Marco Silva will have highlighted this fixture as a really important one in Hull's quest for survival. The fans will get behind them and I fancy them to edge this one.

Prediction: 2-1

Leicester vs Stoke

Saturday 1st April 2017, 15.00

Leicester's resurgence under Craig Shakespeare continued with that 3-2 win at West Ham. Stoke were narrowly beaten 2-1 at home to Chelsea.

Riyad Mahrez and Robert Huth fired Leicester into a 7th-minute 2-0 lead at the London Stadium, and Jamie Vardy scored what proved to be the crucial third goal for Craig Shakespeare. The Foxes manager has won all four of his matches in charge so far (three league, one Champions League) and is proving to be a more than adequate replacement for Claudio Ranieri.

Jamie Vardy has found some form again under Shakespeare, and scored for England against Lithuania (Getty Images)

Mark Hughes will be disappointed after his side conceded a late goal to Chelsea. As always, Stoke made it difficult to play at the Bet365 Stadium but Chelsea's quality told as they proved exactly why they are sat at the top of the tree. Phil Bardsley was sent off deep into injury-time and he'll be missing here.

This should be another good game and I actually fancy Stoke to get something here. They've got some good players in their ranks and should be able to score a couple against a still-frail Leicester defence. I think this will be an exciting draw.

Prediction: 2-2

Manchester United vs West Brom
Saturday 1st April 2017, 15.00

Manchester United return to Premier League action after a 3-1 win at Middlesbrough in Gameweek 29. West Brom enjoyed a fantastic 3-1 victory over Arsenal at the Hawthorns.

United had a comfortable afternoon at the Riverside. Marouane Fellaini and Jesse Lingard put the Red Devils two ahead and although Middlesbrough pulled one back with thirteen minutes left to play, Jose Mourinho's men defended well and deservedly made the points safe thanks to Antonio Valencia's 93rd-minute strike.

West Brom simply wanted it more than Arsenal and got exactly what they deserved. Craig Dawson scored twice and Hal Robson-Kanu was also on the scoresheet as Tony Pulis' men outfought the disappointing Gunners to the three points.

Mourinho will be without Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba on Saturday, amongst others, so he'll be glad that this one is at Old Trafford rather than the tricky Hawthorns. I fancy United to win by the narrowest of margins.

Prediction: 1-0

Watford vs Sunderland
Saturday 1st April 2017, 15.00

Watford lost 1-0 at Crystal Palace in their last league match a fortnight ago. Sunderland were involved in an uneventful 0-0 draw at home to Burnley.

Troy Deeney will be raring to get back on the pitch this weekend and make up for his own-goal at Selhurst Park which saw the Hornets leave with nothing. It was a narrow game that looked like ending goalless until Deeney's mistake, for which he has held his hands up for.

Sunderland once again failed to score and David Moyes' side are now seven points from safety. Jermain Defoe will be buzzing after his goal for England against Lithuania, and the Black Cats need to provide him with some decent service on Saturday if they want to leave Vicarage Road with something.

Sunderland are doomed in my opinion. They don't score enough goals and they can't win the games (like Burnley) that you have to win if you want to stay in this league. I see them losing again on Saturday.

Prediction: 2-0

Southampton vs Bournemouth
Saturday 1st April 2017, 17.30

Southampton enter this South Coast derby on the back of a 2-1 defeat at Tottenham in Gameweek 29. Bournemouth enjoyed a solid 2-0 home victory over Swansea.

Southampton were narrowly beaten by a very good Tottenham side. The Saints found themselves 2-0 down but made a game of it when James Ward-Prowse netted early in the second-half. They couldn't get the all-important equaliser against one of the league's best defences but will be looking forward to getting back to St Mary's this weekend.

Eddie Howe was March's Manager of the Month and Bournemouth's Gameweek 29 victory over Swansea was a contributing factor. Benik Afobe was the difference on the day, forcing Alfie Mawson into an own-goal before adding the second himself.

March's Manager of the Month (Getty Images)

This should be a good game between two mid-table sides. Both play good, attacking football and I fancy the hosts to win a game full of goals.

Prediction: 3-1

Swansea vs Middlesbrough
Sunday 2nd April 2017, 13.30

Swansea were losers at Bournemouth in that 2-0 defeat whilst Middlesbrough lost 3-1 at home to Manchester United two weeks ago.

Swansea didn't really turn up at Bournemouth and were undone by the impressive Benik Afobe, as mentioned above. The Swans are only three points clear of the drop zone and Paul Clement will have highlighted this game as being absolutely massive.

Boro started slowly against Man United and rightly found themselves 2-0 down before Rudy Gestede gave them a route back into the game. They had a real go at United and I was impressed with substitute Adama Traore, who could be some player if he can start adding more goals and assists to his game. United made it 3-1 late on but head coach Steve Agnew will have been encouraged by his side's second-half display.

Swansea's home form under Paul Clement has been a huge factor in their bid for survival and I see that continuing on Sunday. Middlesbrough are one of my picks to go down and I think they'll suffer a damaging loss here.

Prediction: 3-0

Arsenal vs Manchester City
Sunday 2nd April 2017, 16.00

It will have been a long two weeks for Arsenal after a bitterly disappointing 3-1 defeat at West Brom. Manchester City drew 1-1 at home to Liverpool.

Arsenal made a slow start and were 1-0 down after twelve minutes at the Hawthorns but talisman Alexis Sanchez equalised just three minutes later. Arsenal were second best from there and deservedly lost in a game where both Wenger Out' and 'In Arsene We Trust' banners were flown over the stadium. I do feel sorry for the man who has done so much for the club.

Arsene Wenger's Arsenal future is in doubt (Getty Images)

City deserved their point in a brilliant match-up against Liverpool. Both sides deserved something from the game and Sergio Aguero was the man who earned Pep Guardiola his share of the spoils.

Arsene Wenger needs a performance from his team and I think they'll be better than they have been in recent weeks. City are too good to lose here, so I fancy this to end all-square.

Prediction: 1-1

Premier League Predictions - Gameweek 29

It was two out of four for me in a quiet Gameweek 28 as I predicted wins for Everton against West Brom and Liverpool against Burnley. We've got a full round of fixtures this weekend and I'm looking forward to seeing how my predictions fare.

West Brom vs Arsenal

Saturday 18th March 2017, 12.30

West Brom lost their second successive Premier League match in a 3-0 defeat at Everton. Arsenal haven't played in the league since a 3-1 defeat at Anfield on March 4th.

It's Pulis vs Wenger in Saturday's early kick-off (Getty Images)

Tony Pulis' men were well in the game at Goodison Park until the 36th-minute when they allowed Kevin Mirallas space to put the Toffees ahead. Morgan Schneiderlin added another on the stroke of half-time and former Baggies forward Romelu Lukaku added a third in the second half in an unusually poor defensive display from the West Midlands club.

Arsenal were second best against Liverpool a fortnight ago and have since suffered another 5-1 defeat to Bayern Munich, seeing them crash out of the Champions League, but progressed to the FA Cup semi-finals where they will face Manchester City after beating lowly Lincoln City 5-0 at the Emirates.

I think this could be a really close game. West Brom are strong at the Hawthorns but are on a bit of a bad run, so I fancy Arsene Wenger's men to pick up an important win in the race for a top four spot.

Prediction: 1-2

Crystal Palace vs Watford

Saturday 18th March 2017, 15.00

Palace last played two weeks ago, picking up an excellent 2-0 win at West Brom. Watford have also had a fortnight off, last playing in a 4-3 home defeat to Southampton.

Wilfried Zaha and Andros Townsend were the goalscorers as Sam Allardyce's Eagles picked up a massive three points at the Hawthorns. It was their second straight win and clean sheet which is no coincidence as loan signing Mamadou Sakho has started the last two matches at centre-back.

Watford played their part in a thrilling encounter against Southampton at Vicarage Road. Troy Deeney had them ahead after just four minutes and Stefano Okaka later made it 2-2, but two goals in the last ten minutes made it 4-2 to the Saints. Watford weren't finished, and Abdoulaye Doucoure scored a consolation four minutes into injury-time, but the Hornets couldn't find a dramatic late equaliser.

Palace are in really good form and a third straight win could see them climb as high as 15th if other results go their way. They've found a bit of character under Big Sam, and I think they'll get the win in front of their own fans at Selhurst Park.

Prediction: 3-1

Everton vs Hull

Saturday 18th March 2017, 15.00

Everton bounced straight back from defeat at Tottenham with a 3-0 win over WBA at Goodison Park. Hull won their six-pointer with Swansea, 2-1 at the KCOM Stadium.

Romelu Lukaku has been everywhere this week! He scored against former-club West Brom last Saturday in a comfortable 3-0 victory for Ronald Koeman's side, but has been in the headlines since after stating he will not be signing improved terms at the Merseyside club. I do believe that he is good enough to be playing in the Champions League, but he needs to focus on the rest of the season and leave all talk of exiting Goodison until the end of the season.

Hull needed an Everton player (albeit on loan) to earn three crucial points against Swansea. Oumar Niasse came off the bench to score twice for the Tigers, which was enough to beat the battling Swans despite a late consolation. Unfortunately for Marco Silva, Niasse is ineligible to play his parent club on Saturday.

Oumar Niasse is unavailable against parent club Everton (Getty Images)

Hull picked up a massive win last time out but Everton have won their last five league matches at home and should have far too much for the Tigers despite everything that's been said about Romelu Lukaku this week.

Prediction: 3-0

Stoke vs Chelsea

Saturday 18th March 2017, 15.00

Stoke have played twice recently, beating Middlesbrough 2-0 at the Bet365 Stadium on 4th March before drawing 0-0 at Manchester City four days later. Chelsea haven't played in the league since a 2-1 win at West Ham twelve days ago.

Marko Arnautovic scored twice as Stoke brushed Boro aside two weeks ago, before picking up an excellent 0-0 draw at the Etihad. Mark Hughes' men defended fantastically, and thoroughly deserved their draw.

Eden Hazard and Diego Costa scored at the London Stadium as Chelsea won their second league match in a row and maintained their ten point lead at the top. They have since progressed to the FA Cup semi-final after beating Manchester United 1-0 at Stamford Bridge on Monday, N'golo Kante the unlikely goalscorer. They will face Tottenham at Wembley.

Stoke is a really tough place to go but Chelsea look so organised in every game I see them and I think Antonio Conte will be the happier of the two managers on Saturday evening.

Prediction: 0-1

Sunderland vs Burnley

Saturday 18th March 2017, 15.00

Sunderland are six points adrift of safety after a 2-0 defeat at home to Manchester City in their last league outing, a third straight defeat. Burnley played last weekend and were a little unlucky to lose 2-1 at Liverpool.

David Moyes' men are in big trouble. It's understandable that they couldn't live with Manchester City but they can't live with the teams around them either. The club did receive a bit of a boost with the news that Jermain Defoe has been called up to an England squad for the first time since 2013, but his focus has to be on Burnley this weekend; Defoe is going to have to score an awful lot of goals if he's going to save the Black Cats.

Burnley took the lead at Anfield thanks to Ashley Barnes' early goal, and the game might have been a whole lot different if Liverpool hadn't equalised on the stroke of half-time. Relentless Reds' pressure mounted in the second period, and Emre Can beat Tom Heaton from distance to condemn the Clarets to yet another away defeat.

Sunderland simply have to win this game, and I fancy them to do it. Burnley have only picked up two away points all season and I fancy the Mackems to take the points.

Prediction: 2-0 

West Ham vs Leicester

Saturday 18th March 2017, 15.00

West Ham lost 3-2 in a thrilling game at Bournemouth last weekend. Leicester haven't played in the league since a 3-1 home victory over Hull two weeks ago.

It was a crazy game at the Vitality Stadium, with Bournemouth missing two penalties but still beating the Hammers. Michail Antonio scored just 48 seconds after their first failure from the spot, and Andre Ayew later thought he'd earned a point with just seven minutes remaining. However, Josh King completed a Bournemouth hat-trick to leave Slaven Bilic a very frustrated manager.

Craig Shakespeare has won his first two league matches (both 3-1) in charge of Leicester, but his biggest achievement came on Tuesday night as his side beat Sevilla 2-0 (3-2 on aggregate) to reach the Champions League quarter-finals, where they will face Atletico Madrid. The mood at the club has changed completely since Claudio Ranieri's departure, as sad as that is.

Leicester haven't been good travellers this season, though, and West Ham have found themselves scoring more goals and performing much better despite not always collecting three points. However, I think they will on Saturday.

Prediction: 2-1

Bournemouth vs Swansea

Saturday 18th March 2017, 17.30

Bournemouth won that thrilling 3-2 encounter with West Ham, their first league win since New Year's Eve (against Swansea). The Swans are much improved since that encounter, but lost 2-1 at Hull last week.

Josh King bagged a hat-trick against West Ham despite missing a penalty at 0-0, and he's been in really good form. Benik Afobe also missed a penalty, but it didn't matter as King's 90th-minute strike won it for Eddie Howe's Cherries.

Josh King scored a brilliant hat-trick against West Ham (Getty Images)

Swansea were doing well at Hull and would have taken a point, but Oumar Niasse came off the bench and his pace in behind caused them all sorts of problems. His brace saw off Paul Clement's men, although Alfie Mawson scored another set-piece consolation.

Bournemouth really needed that win against West Ham, and I think they'll play well on Saturday evening with the pressure off a bit. Swansea will give them a game, but will leave empty-handed in my opinion.

Prediction: 3-1

Middlesbrough vs Manchester United

Sunday 19th March 2017, 12.00

Middlesbrough's last league game was their 2-0 defeat at Stoke two weeks ago. Manchester United's was a 1-1 draw at home to Bournemouth, also a fortnight ago.

That defeat at Stoke proved to be Aitor Karanka's last league game in charge of Boro, although the final nail in the coffin was a 2-0 home defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup. Karanka leaves with the Teesiders sat 19th in the Premier League, without a league victory since December.

United have been busy lately. Since a disappointing 1-1 home draw with Bournemouth they've exited the FA Cup at the hands of Chelsea but progressed to the last sixteen of the Europa League after beating Rostov 2-1 on aggregate. Jose Mourinho has this week bemoaned the club's fixture list.

I fancy Middlesbrough to pick up a point on Sunday. Teams usually perform in the first game after a manager's departure, and Manchester United have played a lot of football of late. The Red Devils are also without the suspended Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Prediction: 1-1

Tottenham vs Southampton

Sunday 19th March 2017, 14.15

Spurs remain second in the league after beating Everton 3-2 at White Hart Lane a couple of weeks ago. Southampton were last in league action when they won 4-3 at Watford.

Harry Kane was the star of the show against Everton, but will be missing on Sunday after picking up an injury against Millwall in the FA Cup. Spurs went on to win that game 6-0 to set up a semi-final meeting with Chelsea, Son Heung-min scoring a treble. I wouldn't be surprised to see him start as striker in Kane's absence.

Southampton have won their last two league games and have had a couple of weeks off. They won a thriller at Watford, Nathan Redmond scoring a brace including a 86th-minute winner. They are making good progress under Claude Puel.

Mauricio Pochettino will be eager to get one over his old side, but knows he is in for a tough afternoon without talisman Kane. Having said that, I still fancy Spurs to get the job done.

Prediction: 2-0

Manchester City vs Liverpool

Sunday 19th March 2017, 16.30

The last match before the international break should be an absolute thriller. City drew their last league game, 0-0 at home to Stoke, whilst Liverpool beat Burnley 2-1 at Anfield last week.

Since that drab goalless draw, City have progressed to the FA Cup semi-finals after beating Middlesbrough 2-0 but crashed out of the Champions League after losing 3-1 in Monaco. They drew 6-6 on aggregate but lost on away goals, and Pep Guardiola will be absolutely gutted.

Liverpool battled back well to beat Burnley, something they've struggled to do against the lesser clubs this season. Gini Wijnaldum popped up with another goal and Emre Can fizzed in a beautiful strike from range as the Reds made it back-to-back league wins.

Emre Can celebrates scoring the winner against Burnley (Getty Images)

City are really struggling defensively and I'm sure Jurgen Klopp will set his side up with a lot of pace. They won 4-1 at the Etihad last season, and I'm going to go for another away win on Sunday.

Prediction: 2-3

Premier League Predictions - Gameweek 28

I correctly predicted the outcome of six Premier League matches last weekend, calling wins for Leicester, Stoke, Liverpool, Tottenham, Manchester City and Chelsea. I got one perfect score, which was Chelsea's 2-1 victory at West Ham. There are only four Premier League fixtures this Gameweek, and I'm hoping for at least one perfect score.

Bournemouth vs West Ham
Saturday 11th March 2017, 15.00

Bournemouth ended a run of four straight league defeats with an excellent point in a 1-1 draw at Manchester United. West Ham's three match unbeaten run came to an end in a 2-1 defeat at home to Chelsea on Monday night.

Bournemouth's result at Old Trafford has gone under the radar a bit due to the controversy in the game surrounding Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Tyrone Mings. Both have been retrospectively banned by the FA this week, meaning Mings will be missing for the Cherries after his stamp was deemed deliberate. He will sit out the next five matches. Bournemouth also received a red card in the game, Andy Surman receiving two yellows, meaning Eddie Howe's men had to see out the remaining 45 minutes with ten men. Marcos Rojo had given United an early lead before Josh King responded from the penalty spot five minutes before Surman's dismissal. It was a brave performance by Bournemouth, and Artur Boruc was the hero after he saved a 71st-minute penalty from Ibrahimovic.

These two men have been in trouble this week (Getty Images)

Like so many before them, West Ham struggled to live with two of Chelsea's best on Monday night; Eden Hazard and Diego Costa. Both scored to give the league leaders a 2-0 advantage, and the Hammers never really looked like getting back into it, although Manuel Lanzini did hit a 92nd-minute consolation. It was a frustrating night for Slaven Bilic, whose side couldn't really provide any chances for the returning Andy Carroll.

I think this will be a close game. Bournemouth will be bolstered after a terrific point at Old Trafford whilst West Ham have been in decent form and should have no shame in losing to a brilliant Chelsea team. I think this could end honours even at the Vitality Stadium.

Prediction: 2-2 

Everton vs West Brom
Saturday 11th March 2017, 15.00

Everton lost their first league match since December, going down 3-2 in a frantic game at Tottenham. West Brom's run of five league matches without defeat is over after a disappointing 2-0 home defeat to Crystal Palace.

Harry Kane was the difference at White Hart Lane as Tottenham became the first team to beat Everton in the Premier League in 2017. The England ace gave Spurs a 2-0 lead before Everton gave themselves a chance with nine minutes to play, Romelu Lukaku scoring to become Everton's leading Premier League scorer with 61 goals. The hosts restored their two goal lead in the 92nd-minute through Dele Alli and although Enner Valencia bagged a consolation goal a minute later there wasn't time for Everton to seriously threaten an equaliser. This isn't an easy follow-up game for the Toffees, either; West Brom are just a place behind them (8th) and only four points worse-off.

Lukaku is now Everton's leading goalscorer in the Premier League (Getty Images)

The Baggies suffered a surprising defeat as they lost 2-0 at home to struggling Palace. It was a most unlike-West Brom performance at the Hawthorns as they failed to create clear-cut chances and were punished by a Crystal Palace side who were better on the day. Wilfried Zaha and Andros Townsend both scored in the second-half to lift Sam Allardyce's team out of the bottom three, and Tony Pulis will be frustrated that his team appeared to underestimate the Eagles.

Romelu Lukaku will be looking forward to facing his former side as Everton's leading Premier League scorer, and I think he could be the difference between two good teams. I'm going for a home victory for Ronald Koeman's men.

Prediction: 2-1

Hull vs Swansea
Saturday 11th March 2017, 15.00

Hull have failed to win in their last three league matches, the most recent of which was a 3-1 defeat at champions Leicester. Swansea continue to put distance between themselves and and the relegation zone, winning 3-2 at home to Burnley last weekend.

In fairness to Hull, the timing of the Leicester game couldn't have been much worse. The Foxes were on a massive high after beating Liverpool 3-1 in Craig Shakespeare's first game in temporary charge, and they earned a repeat scoreline against Hull, who are still 19th in the league. Sam Clucas had given the Tigers the lead but goals from Christian Fuchs, Riyad Mahrez and a Tom Huddlestone own-goal gave Leicester a deserved victory.

Tom Huddlestone's own-goal contributed to Hull's 3-1 defeat at Leicester (Getty Images)

Paul Clement collected another win as Swansea manager but it needed a late, late goal to do it. Fernando Llorente had given the Swans an early lead but an Andre Gray penalty and another finish from the striker saw Burnley take the lead. The Welsh side showed great resilience, though, Martin Olsson hitting an equaliser before Llorente popped up with a 92nd-minute winning header. Llorente has scored some massive goals in Swansea's recent resurgence.  

Hull's progress under Marco Silva has faltered in recent weeks, whereas Swansea continue to pick up important points in the race for survival. They're in good form and good confidence at the moment, and I fancy this to be an away win at the KCOM Stadium.

Prediction: 1-3  

Liverpool vs Burnley
Sunday 12th March 2017, 16.00

Liverpool's excellent form against the top six continued with an emphatic 3-1 victory over Arsenal at Anfield. Burnley were on the receiving end of that late Fernando Llorente goal in a 3-2 defeat at Swansea.
 
Sadio Mane was outstanding again as Liverpool earned a thoroughly deserved three points against the Gunners. He created Roberto Firmino's opener before scoring a second himself, and although Danny Welbeck halved the deficit in the second-half a fine breakaway goal in injury-time saw Gini Wijnaldum put the game beyond doubt. Wijnaldum has scored some crucial goals at Anfield this season, and has netted in big games against Manchester City, Chelsea and now Arsenal as well as against Watford earlier in the season.

Liverpool put a fine shift in against Arsenal (Getty Images)

Burnley's struggles on the road continued after that crushing last-gasp winner for Swansea. Sean Dyche's side have only picked up two points away from Turf Moor all season, but their home form has been so good that they can afford to go to Anfield and have a go; and of course, we all remember their 2-0 home victory over Jurgen Klopp's team last August.

This is actually tougher to call than it appears on paper, as Liverpool's woes this season have all come at the hands of bottom-half teams like Burnley. However, after an outstanding performance against Arsenal coupled with the Clarets' dreadful away form, I have to back the men from Merseyside.

Prediction: 2-0

 
 

Premier League Predictions - Gameweek 27

There were only eight Premier League matches last time out, and I managed to guess the outcome of five of them. I predicted wins for Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Everton and West Brom, as well as a draw between Watford and West Ham. Unfortunately I didn't register any perfect results but I'm hoping to change that in a full Gameweek 27.

Manchester United vs Bournemouth

Saturday 4th March 2017, 12.30

Manchester United return to Premier League action this weekend after claiming the first silverware of the domestic season. Bournemouth are visitors to Old Trafford, having lost their last four league matches, the most recent a 2-1 defeat at West Brom last Saturday.

Jose Mourinho collected his first trophy as United boss last Sunday as United won the EFL Cup at Wembley. Zlatan Ibrahimovic was the hero, scoring the opener in a thoroughly entertaining 3-2 victory over Southampton. The Swedish striker also headed home the winner with three minutes to spare, with Jesse Lingard grabbing United's second earlier in the game. Ibrahimovic is proving his quality time and time again for the Red Devils, and I wonder how they'd be doing if they hadn't signed him on a free transfer last summer!

Wayne Rooney lifts the EFL Cup (Getty Images)

Bournemouth will be looking over their shoulder after a fourth straight defeat at West Brom. Josh King gave the Cherries an early lead from the penalty spot, but Eddie Howe's men couldn't protect it and were 2-1 down just 16 minutes later. They are just four points above the drop zone, and that could be even less on Saturday evening after a trip to Manchester.

United will be on a massive high after winning the EFL Cup and haven't lost in the league since October. Bournemouth are in poor form, and I see their run of defeats extending to five in Saturday's early kick-off.

Prediction: 3-0

Leicester vs Hull

Saturday 4th March 2017, 15.00

Leicester started the post-Ranieri era with an impressive 3-1 victory over Liverpool at the King Power Stadium. Hull drew 1-1 at home to Burnley.

It seems a long time since Leicester lost 2-1 at Hull in the opening match of the 2016/17 season. A lot has happened since then, including the sacking of the two managers who led those teams in August. Leicester hero Claudio Ranieri was dismissed in February, leaving Craig Shakespeare in temporary charge. His team battered Liverpool, with Jamie Vardy and his teammates seemingly back to their best. The striker netted twice as the Foxes saw off the Reds, with Danny Drinkwater also netting a sensational goal (his first of the season). It was a brilliant win for Leicester and their fans, but I think the players should be ashamed of themselves. They hadn't found a performance like that for a long long time, too long in fact, under the Tinkerman. Perhaps if they had, he'd still be in charge.

Leicester impressed under Craig Shakespeare (Getty Images)

Marco Silva replaced Mike Phelan earlier in the campaign, and he's steadied the ship at the KCOM Stadium. The Tigers are 19th but are just a point adrift of safety, having picked up another against Burnley last weekend. Tom Huddlestone netted from the penalty spot after a handball from Michael Keane, but the centre back redeemed himself just four minutes later when he equalised. Silva will have been disappointed, as that was only the second point Burnley have collected away from home last season.

Leicester looked like champions again on Monday, and the whole club was boosted with that brilliant performance against Liverpool. A win here would be another big statement from Craig Shakespeare, and I think he'll get it.

Prediction: 2-0

Stoke vs Middlesbrough

Saturday 4th March 2017, 15.00

These two meet having both suffered defeats in Gameweek 26. Stoke were battered 4-0 at Spurs, whilst Boro were narrowly beaten 1-0 at Crystal Palace.

Mark Hughes will be a disappointed man after his side's performance against Tottenham. The Potters were 4-0 down at half-time after breaking the golden rule when playing Mauricio Pochettino's side; don't let Harry Kane shoot! The Englishman scored a first-half hat-trick and created another for Dele Alli as Stoke simply couldn't live with him on the day.

It's looking so tight at the bottom of the Premier League. Middlesbrough are now outside the relegation zone on goal difference alone having suffered a 1-0 defeat at Crystal Palace. The Teesiders have failed to win in their last nine in the league and I'm worried for Aitor Karanka and his team, who simply don't score enough goals.

Despite a poor result last weekend, I fancy Stoke here. They are typically good at home, whilst Middlesbrough are poor most weeks at the moment.

Prediction: 2-1

Swansea vs Burnley

Saturday 4th March 2017, 15.00

Swansea lost 3-1 at leaders Chelsea last Saturday, whilst Burnley earned just their second away point of the season at Hull in a 1-1 draw.

Swansea were very much in the game at Stamford Bridge and Fernando Llorente, who terrorised Liverpool in January, equalised on the stroke of half-time after Cesc Fabregas had opened the scoring. Paul Clement's men battled and battled, but the Blues' quality eventually told as Pedro and Diego Costa wrapped up the three points. The Swans remain outside the bottom three, though, and will hope to start climbing the table rather than looking down.

Michael Keane got himself out of trouble at Hull, equalising just four minutes after gifting Hull a penalty for handball. It was an important point for Burnley, who would have suffered a second defeat in three games had Keane not converted. Sean Dyche will be without Ashley Barnes after he was dismissed in injury-time at the KCOM.

This is a tough game to call. Swansea have improved drastically under Clement, whilst Burnley have had a really good first season back in the league. They've struggled on their travels, but I fancy them to pick up another point after last week's result.

Prediction: 1-1

Watford vs Southampton

Saturday 4th March 2017, 15.00

Watford drew their last match in the Premier League, 1-1 with West Ham at Vicarage Road. Southampton return to league action after losing the EFL Cup final to Manchester United.

Mauro Zarate lined up against former-side West Ham last weekend, and won a penalty just three minutes in after drawing a foul from Cheikhou Kouyate. Troy Deeney duly converted to give the Hornets a perfect start, but the first-half was marred by a nasty-looking knee injury to Zarate. Andrew Ayew netted an equaliser for West Ham, a draw probably a fair result.

I thought Southampton were terrific in their cup final defeat. They got themselves back into the game from 2-0 down and played with great freedom throughout. Some of the deliveries into the area were stunning, and January-signing Manolo Gabbiadini is proving to be a fine player, netting both goals for the Saints in the 3-2 defeat. The Italian should have had a hat-trick, after seeing an early strike incorrectly ruled out for offside. Claude Puel can be very proud of his team, who lost solely because of Zlatan Ibrahimovic's clinical nature.

Gabbiadini has made a terrific start to life in England (Getty Images)

Puel will be hoping that defeat didn't dent his team's confidence too much, as they are capable of playing some great football for the rest of the season. Watford aren't bad at home, however, and I think Walter Mazzarri's team will hold the visitors to a draw this weekend.

Prediction: 2-2

West Brom vs Crystal Palace

Saturday 4th March 2017, 15.00

West Brom are unbeaten in five league games following last weekend's 2-1 win at home to Bournemouth. Palace also won, 1-0 at home to Bournemouth.

Tony Pulis' team have got something really good going on this season. There seems to be a great team spirit and work ethic at the Hawthorns, and that was apparent as they fought back from a goal down to beat Bournemouth 2-1. Every Baggies player contributes, and it was two defenders that won the game for WBA - Craig Dawson and familiarly, Gareth McAuley.

Despite beating Boro, Sam Allardyce's Eagles remain in the bottom three. It was a big win, however, thanks to a goal from January signing Patrick van Aanholt. Big Sam will hope his side can back up victory better this weekend; last time they won in the league, they lost 4-0 at home to Sunderland in the next game!

I can't go against West Brom at home. The Baggies might not play the best football but they are so well organised and disciplined and they have thoroughly earned their current position of 8th in the table. I think they'll outfight Palace on Saturday.

Prediction: 1-0

Liverpool vs Arsenal

Saturday 4th March 2017, 17.30

Liverpool have now won just one of their last seven Premier League games after an abysmal 3-1 defeat at Leicester on Monday. Arsenal weren't in Premier League action last weekend, as they were scheduled to be playing EFL Cup finalists Southampton.

I can't believe what has happened to Jurgen Klopp's Reds. They were simply embarrassing at the King Power on Monday, and it's becoming all a bit too similar. Liverpool have now lost to Swansea, Hull and Leicester in 2017. Phillipe Coutinho scored a fine goal in Monday's defeat, but that was the only moment of quality they could muster in the 90 minutes. What's frustrating, though, is that Liverpool can raise their game for the big sides. They've drawn against Chelsea and beaten Tottenham in the opening months of this year, and who'd be surprised if they beat Arsenal on Saturday?

Arsenal's last league match was a 2-0 home victory over Hull. Since then, they have lost 5-1 at Bayern Munich in the Champions League and progressed to the FA Cup quarter-finals with a 2-0 win at Sutton. So, a bit of a mixed bag for Arsene Wenger, who has been linked with the Barcelona job this week after Luis Enrique announced his intention to step down at the end of the season.

Liverpool's thrilling 4-3 win at the Emirates on the opening day seems a long time ago. It set the trend for the Reds' season, able to beat the big sides but not the battling strugglers. With that in mind, I'm going for a home win, based on home advantage and the fact that Klopp will have torn into his players this week.

Prediction: 2-1

Tottenham vs Everton

Sunday 5th March 2017, 13.30

Spurs are back up to 2nd after thrashing Stoke 4-0 at White Hart Lane. Everton were comfortable 2-0 winners over Sunderland at Goodison.

I've already mentioned Harry Kane, but he deserves further praise. He was simply sensational in the first-half at the Lane, and for me he's the best natural finisher in the league, Sergio Aguero aside. Kane scored his third hat-trick in nine games, and his 100th career goal. I had a bit of a debate over this at the time, but I really do feel that if he stays at Spurs, or at least in the Premier League, for a long time then he could be the man to break Alan Shearer's record.

This man is in excellent form (Getty Images)

Everton are in excellent form and haven't lost on league duty since the Merseyside Derby in December. Goals from Idrissa Gueye and Romelu Lukaku saw off Sunderland, managed by former Toffees boss David Moyes, at Goodison. Ronald Koeman has had a great impact at the Blues.

I think Everton's unbeaten streak could come to an end here. Spurs bounced back from defeat at Anfield with an emphatic victory over Stoke, and they're so strong at White Hart Lane.

Prediction: 2-0

Sunderland vs Manchester City

Sunday 5th March 2017, 16.00

Sunderland remain bottom of the league after that 2-0 defeat at Everton. City didn't feature last weekend due to Manchester United's participation in the EFL Cup, but warmed up for this one with a 5-1 win over Huddersfield in an FA Cup replay.

Amazingly, Sunderland are only three points from leaving the drop zone, despite being rock bottom for weeks. They will have to perform a damn sight better than they did at Goodison Park. It was far too easy for Everton, who coasted to a 2-0 win.

Pep Guardiola will be happy to return to league action after a 5-1 thrashing of Huddersfield in midweek. Sergio Aguero scored twice in that one and will have been drafted into a lot of Fantasy League teams ahead of this fixture!

I just don't see the Black Cats keeping City out here. They are so poor defensively, and this should be an easy away win.

Prediction: 0-3

West Ham vs Chelsea

Monday 6th March 2017, 20.00

West Ham drew 1-1 at Watford last Saturday, whilst Chelsea's lead at the top is ten points after a 3-1 win over Swansea at Stamford Bridge.

Andre Ayew came off the bench to tap home an equaliser against Watford after Michael Antonio's shot rebounded off both posts. It's now three games unbeaten for Slaven Bilic's side, but they will be without Antonio who saw red at Vicarage Road.

Chelsea broke down a resilient Swansea side to record a 3-1 win. Cesc Fabregas started and scored the opener, before Pedro and Diego Costa made it safe. Antonio Conte's men are travelling comfortably towards the title, but face a big game against Manchester City in April. It was nice to see Victor Moses rewarded with a new contract this week after a string of fine performances.

West Ham still aren't quite right at the London Stadium, but I think they'll make this difficult for the Blues. However, if Eden Hazard and Diego Costa are on their game, it has to be an away win.

Prediction: 1-2

Manchester City vs Stoke
Wednesday 8th March 2017, 20.00

These two feature twice in Gameweek 27 owing to City having a game in hand. City are too good at home for most teams, and I think they'll get two wins this Gameweek.

Prediction: 2-0