Matchweek 19 Previews
Chelsea v. Southampton
Chelsea are coming off of one of their biggest results of the season, beating Tottenham by 2 goals away from home. They now host Southampton, who earned a big win of their own on Saturday. The Blues have won 8 of their last 9 meetings against the Saints in all competitions, and last lost to Southampton over 4 years ago. Still, their home form has left a lot to be desired, as they have more losses in their last 3 Premier League home matches (2) than they did all of last season (1). Southampton have just 2 losses in their last 6 matches, and have enjoyed the massive success of Danny Ings, who already has 11 goals on the season.
Bournemouth v. Arsenal
It’s the beginning of (another) new era for Arsenal, as former club captain Mikel Arteta will manage the team for the first time. The Gunners have just 1 win in their last 13 matches in all competitions, have a challenging run of fixtures ahead, and sit in the bottom half of the table through 18 league games. Still, they have just 1 loss in 10 meetings against Bournemouth in all competitions, so history is on their side on Thursday. Another factor in Arsenal’s favor – Bournemouth have 6 losses in their last 7 Premier League matches, including 3 straight home losses.
Manchester United v. Newcastle United
Manchester United have had arguably the most unusual season of any Premier League side so far. After a 6-match unbeaten run in the league, the Red Devils were soundly beaten by last-place Watford on Sunday. All 5 of Man United’s Premier League losses this season have come against teams in the bottom-12 in the table, while they have stepped up with strong performances in matches against the top-7. On the other side, Newcastle are off to a significantly better start under former Manchester United player Steve Bruce. They have jumped from 18th place to 9th in just 9 matches, plus last year’s marquee signing Miguel Almiron finally scored his first goal for the club at the weekend. With 2 wins in their last 4 meetings against Man United, the Magpies will feel they have a good chance on Thursday.
Leicester City v. Liverpool
Liverpool last played a Premier League match on December 14th, but since then, they were crowned World Champions at the Club World Cup. They are still unbeaten through 17 Premier League matches this season, and sit 10 points clear at the top of the table with a game in hand. They face Leicester in this match, with the Foxes coming off of their first loss in 2 months. Still, Leicester have been the standout among the teams below Liverpool in the table, sitting in 2nd place. However, Leicester have 4 losses in their last 5 meetings against Liverpool, last beating the Reds nearly 3 years ago. Their home record is terrific this season, but can they stand in the way of Liverpool’s dominance?
Wolverhampton Wanderers v. Manchester City
Manchester City earned a big win last time out, smashing Leicester City 3-1. It was yet another brilliant display from one of the Premier League’s best: Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian has 6 goals and a league-high 10 assists so far this season, as he continues to impose himself upon any and all opponents. While Man City have just 1 loss in their last 8 encounters against Wolves in all competitions, that loss came in the reverse fixture back in October. Wolves have also lost just 1 of their last 13 Premier League matches and have only suffered 3 defeats all season.
