Matchweek 9 Previews
Tottenham Hotspur v. Watford
The international break will have been a welcome interruption to the season for Tottenham, who have just 1 win in their last 6 matches in all competitions. Even more welcome for Spurs will be the thought of playing against Watford, who are still in search of a first Premier League win on the season. The Hornets have struggled to gather any momentum this season, and have just 1 win in 12 all-time PL meetings against Tottenham.
Chelsea v. Newcastle United
Chelsea have begun to pick up steam under Frank Lampard, winning each of their last 4 matches in all competitions. Still, defending remains an issue for the Blues, as they have conceded the 4th-most goals in the Premier League. They take on Newcastle in this match, who have had an interesting season. While the Magpies have just 2 wins so far, both have come against “big 6” sides, winning at Tottenham and at home against Manchester United. Can they pull off another upset?
Crystal Palace v. Manchester City
With 16 points through 8 matches, this has been the worst league start to a season in Pep Guardiola’s managerial career. Sitting 8 points behind Liverpool at this early stage in the season, it already feels like every match has become a must-win for the Cityzens as they attempt a 3-peat. Crystal Palace, on the other hand, are off to one of their best starts to a Premier League season. Th Eagles are unbeaten in their last 6 PL home matches, but their last home loss came in this fixture back in April.
Manchester United v. Liverpool
This match pits English football’s 2 most successful clubs against one another, but they could not possibly enter Sunday with more different emotions. On the one hand, Liverpool are off to one of the best starts in Premier League history, and could equal the all-time top-flight winning streak record with a victory in this match. On the other hand, Manchester United are off to their worst start to a Premier League season. The pressure is on for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at Old Trafford, as he looks to come away with a statement win and earn back some trust from Man United fans and board members alike. One thing working in his favor is the fact that the Red Devils are unbeaten in their last 6 home meetings against Liverpool in all competitions. Can Liverpool make history, or will Old Trafford prove too much for the title-favorites?
Sheffield United v. Arsenal
Arsenal have had a rock solid start to the season, sitting in 3rd place at the start of the weekend. In addition to their typically prolific nature in front of goal, the Gunners have also recently tightened up defensively, with 4 clean sheets in their last 6 in all competitions. They travel to Bramall Lane, where Sheffield United have not played their best football of late. The Blades have just 3 home points in the Premier League this season and have lost each of their last 3 at home.