Premier League Matchday Four: Previews and Prediction

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By Egeonu Ifeanyichukwu

Last weekend threw up some shocking results as the young Premier League season continues to take shape.


A lot of us, backed Liverpool to beat Manchester United at Old Trafford on Monday, only for Erik Ten Hag's men to grab their first win of the season.

United were really excellent on the night. The big question now is can they back it up?


Southampton vs Manchester United

The Saints had to endure a lot of pressure in the first half against Leicester City last weekend and then went behind to a James Maddison free-kick but they responded superbly.

They ended up winning the game, and deservedly so after Che Adams came off the bench to score twice, and this won't be an easy game for Manchester United.

I don't think anyone saw United turning up against Liverpool, so I expect them to carry that momentum into this game and edge this one.


My prediction: 1-2


Brentford vs Everton


Everton might count themselves rather unfortunate, they had a lot of opportunities against Nottingham Forest before the visitors took the lead at Goodison Park last weekend.

Frank Lampard's men lack that finishing touch up front, although Demarai Gray had an outstanding performance culminating in him score against Forest.

Brentford were unlucky not to have taken a point away at Craven Cottage last Saturday, but with home advantage I think they will win this one.


My prediction: 2-0


Brighton vs Leeds


Leeds have been some people's surprise package this season and they proved that with an excellent performance against Chelsea on Sunday.

Their new signings have hit the ground running - Brenden Aaronson is getting so much plaudits, while midfielders Marc Roca and Tyler Adams have shown they are decent buys as well.

Brighton do not let in that many goals, but I fancy them to score. I also think Leeds will score as well.


My prediction: 2-1


Chelsea vs Leicester


Chelsea have an interest in Leicester defender, Wesley Fofana, which does not seem like a deal that will be done by Saturday. And going by Brendan Rodgers' comments, it doesn't look like Fofana will be in the squad to face Chelsea.


The Blues were way off it against Leeds on Sunday, and I expect them to respond after that embarrassing defeat at Elland Road. Leeds played with greater intensity and hunger and Chelsea got reeled in.

Thomas Tuchel's side have an issue in terms of scoring goals and in need of a number nine, but I think they will win this one.


My prediction: 2-1


Liverpool vs Bournemouth


The Premier League season still has a long way to go, but this has become a must-win game for Liverpool in terms of what they need to get their season up and running. They need a win by any means possible.

There has been a lack of creativity in their midfield and that has been a major problem. Their forward line have lacked presence due to the absence of Darwin Nunez, who is serving a three-match ban following his headbutt incident against Crystal Palace. He was sorely missed against Manchester United, and I felt he would have made a difference.

Liverpool look like a team that is missing their spark, they need to get it back and what better place to do it than at Anfield.

Bournemouth have conceded seven goals and scored none in their last two EPL games, and I don't see them scoring either in this game.

I think this will be a straight win for the Reds at home.


My prediction: 3-0


Manchester City vs Crystal Palace


The Eagles have beaten Manchester City twice at the Etihad Stadium in recent years, so they know how to win there, and there is this link with their manager Patrick Vieira, who used to play and coach at the club.

Palace are a very dangerous counter-attacking teams, especially with Will Zaha in fine goalscoring form, but you still cannot see past Manchester City.

It was really interesting the way Newcastle were brave to go toe-to-toe with City & hurt them, but I expect City to win considering they have got home advantage, but I expect Palace to score.


My prediction: 2-1


Arsenal vs Fulham


The Gunners fans have gotten their tails up at the moment. Gabriel Jesus has started the season well and I see only one outcome here - an Arsenal win.

Fulham had a really important win against Brentford and deservedly so.

That stoppage time header from Aleksandr Mitrovic to get them over the line last weekend was important, but they will have a really tough test against Arsenal.


My prediction: 2-1


Aston Villa vs West Ham


These sides have both had an indifferent start to the season.

Steven Gerrard left out Philippe Coutinho  to start Emiliano Buendia last week, but things didn't go their way either as they ended up losing to Crystal Palace.

Villa beat Everton in there last home game, but things are not quite clicking and it is a big game for them at home.

West Ham have not got going either & have lost three games on the spin in the league. The Hammers have got some centre half problems, and I think this will end in a stalemate.


My prediction: 1-1


Wolves vs Newcastle


Wolves can't seem to find a goal. They create loads of opportunities and have some talented players, but they just lack that finishing touch.

Newcastle on the other hand, were absolutely brilliant against Manchester City in that pulsating 3-3 draw at St. James' Park last weekend.

The way they played, the way they got bodies forward and the way they attacked with real confidence, makes me pick them to get a win here.


My prediction: 1-2


Nottingham Forest vs Tottenham Hotspur 


Forest have started well and have spent a lot of money which as a supporter, could mean the owner is showing intent.

They have a brilliant manager in Steve Cooper but this type of team might just play into Spurs' hands.

Spurs haven't been flowing, and were lucky to get a point at Chelsea and beat Wolves narrowly last week thanks to Harry Kane's goal.

Forest at home might try to take the game to Spurs and that might suit Antonio Conte's men.


My prediction: 0-4

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