Matchweek 30 Previews
West Ham United v. Wolverhampton Wanderers
After stumbling through the majority of the Premier League season, West Ham find themselves in 16th place as the season resumes. They had just 4 wins in their final 23 PL games before the season was suspended, and have lost each of their last 3 meetings against Wolves without scoring once. Speaking of Wolves, they spent season proving that their 2018-19 success was no fluke. Nuno’s men sit in 7th place and were in great form, keeping a clean sheet in 4 of their final 5 Premier League matches before the season was paused.
Newcastle United v. Sheffield United
While Newcastle are involved in plenty of the gossip off the pitch as takeover rumors abound, they have had an interesting season on it. Their 25 goals rank tied for the fewest in the league alongside last-place Norwich, but they still sit mid-table. With just 2 losses in their final 13 matches before the season was interrupted, Newcastle had seemingly hit their stride. However, it will take a big effort to keep Sheffield United at bay. The Blades enter this match after being controversially denied a goal in the first match of the season restart on Wednesday. The goal-that-wasn’t cost Chris Wilder’s side 2 valuable points in the chase for European football, but Sheffield United continue to be one of the success stories of the season.
Aston Villa v. Chelsea
While Chelsea have been one of the few clubs willing to splash cash on transfers recently, they still need to focus on this season. The Blues are locked into a heated competition for 4th place, and inconsistent results have hurt them. Their defending has been porous at times during the season, but their attack is bolstered by the return of the now-fit Christian Pulisic and Callum Hudson-Odoi. Aston Villa, on the other hand, are locked into a race of their own at the other end of the table. Stuck in 19th place, the Villans have been hurt by a lack of finishing. However, the return of John McGinn while the season was suspended could be a catalyst for their attack as the season comes to a close.
Everton v. Liverpool
One of football’s most bitter rivalries returns as Liverpool head across Stanley Park to visit Everton. While the Reds can no longer clinch their first-ever Premier League title at the home of their rivals, they can inch closer. The runaway league leaders could get to within 3 points of that title with a win at Everton, and the league’s best defense will be on high alert to fend off any threats. Everton will hope to delay the celebrations a little longer, and will turn to Dominic Calvert-Lewin to pick back up with his blistering form in front of goal since the arrival of new boss Carlo Ancelotti.
Manchester City v. Burnley
Manchester City announced their return to action with authority on Wednesday, smashing Arsenal 3-0. The 2-time defending Premier League champions know that a 3-peat is all but off the table, but they will look to stay sharp ahead of the return of the Champions League in August. Their 4 straight wins against Burnley have come to the tune of a 15-1 scoreline. For the Clarets, a 7-match unbeaten run in the Premier League is on the line, but over 3 months separate this match from their last. Can they fend off Manchester City’s high flying attack with their iron-clad defense?
