THE PREM IS BAAAAAACK!!! Fans rejoice as the 100 day wait is over. The coronavirus pandemic has spoiled an otherwise brilliant season in England’s top flight, yet the restart has somehow given us new excitement to look forward to. With 9 matches remaining, most teams have everything to play for. European places are up for grabs, and the relegation battle will, as per usual, go down to the wire. We’re here to give our predictions, one matchday at a time.
Aston Villa vs. Sheffield United
The first game of the restart is a fixture not many would usually tune into, but this one is different. Villa will look to Grealish to steer them from relegation, starting with a tough matchup against the resolute Sheffield United. Sheffield have one of the best defenses in the league, so don’t expect an upset.
Phil: 0-2
Max: 1-2
Brice: 0-1
Manchester City vs. Arsenal
The one we’ve been waiting for. A revamped Arsenal head to the Etihad for a mouthwatering fixture. Arteta has something to prove against his former boss, but City may be too big of a task, especially with Laporte returning to the side.
Phil: 2-1
Max: 2-2
Brice:3-1
Norwich vs. Southampton
Daniel Farke’s side need a miracle to avoid relegation this season. They face a tough test against Southampton, led by the red-hot Danny Ings. We’re hoping for some goals in this one.
Phil: 2-2
Max: 0-1
Brice: 1-2
Tottenham vs. Manchester United
Two sides who desperately need to hit the ground running in order to cement European football next season. Both have massive players returning from injury, notably Kane and Pogba. Expect goals and some Mourinho fireworks.
Phil: 2-2
Max: 3-3
Brice: 2-2
Watford vs. Leicester
Leicester return to action against giant-killers Watford. Troy Deeney may have the cojones, but Leicester have the quality and energy. The Vardy Party is back, as Leicester will look to capture Champions League football.
Phil: 1-3
Max: 1-3
Brice: 0-1
Brighton vs. Arsenal
The Seagulls have fared better than expected under Graham Potter this season. That being said, depending on how they do at the Etihad, Arsenal will either try to keep momentum or bounce back with fire. Expect a tactical battle.
Phil: 1-2
Max: 1-3
Brice: 1-2
West Ham vs. Wolves
West Ham must find some form in order to avoid a relegation scrap, and face a difficult first challenge against Wolves. Nuno’s men are rested and ready to rumble, so don’t count on an upset.
Phil: 1-3
Max: 2-4
Brice: 0-3
Bournemouth vs. Crystal Palace
Two very evenly matched teams. David Brooks returns to action for Bournemouth, hoping they can escape the drop zone. Palace have been remarkably consistent all season, and will look to pick up where they left off. Get ready for the battle of the FPL cheap beasts (Wilson vs. Ayew).
Phil: 1-2
Max: 2-2
Brice: 1-1
Newcastle vs. Sheffield United
Newcastle don’t have much to play for, but will look to impress their new Saudi suitors. They face a stout Sheffield defense here. Should they count on Joelinton for the goals?
Phil: 0-1
Max: 1-1
Brice: 0-0
Aston Villa vs. Chelsea
Chelsea all over the news with transfer rumors. Will they be able to mirror their ambitions on the pitch? With Kanté in the side, Lampard’s men usually look the part. Villa will be hoping to pull something big off here.
Phil: 1-3
Max: 2-2
Brice: 1-4
Everton vs. Liverpool
A big one on Merseyside. Liverpool want to clinch the title as soon as possible, but their blue neighbors will do everything in their power to prevent them from doing so. Expect Liverpool to come back with a bang, but Everton to put up a big fight here.
Phil: 0-2
Max: 1-4
Brice: 1-3
Manchester City vs. Burnley
City usually do quite well against Burnley, but with Sean Dyche’s side, you never know. Pep knows what he’ll be facing, yet he may need to rely on another stellar performance from Sergio Aguero. This one will either be a blowout or a nail-biter.
Phil: 2-1
Max: 3-0
Brice: 5-0
Don’t agree? Let us know on Twitter @topbinstalk!
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