Premier League Predictions – 25-26 August
The Premier League opened with a number of surprise results last weekend with both Fulham and Swansea running out 5-0 winners, whilst Manchester United suffered an early defeat at Everton. Sportingly Better analyses the best bets in the Premiership this weekend including Newcastle’s trip to Chelsea.
Weekend Tips
Premier League leaders Chelsea are likely to be without captain John Terry, but David Luiz could return in defence although new signing Cesar Azpilicueta is not expected to feature on Saturday.
Chelsea came from behind against newly promoted Reading on Wednesday night to secure a 4-2 victory in an absorbing encounter in which the pace and width from wide caused trouble for the Champion League winners. The Blues have racked up six goals in their opening two games, whilst Spanish striker Fernando Torres seems to be playing with much more confidence and vigour already this season. Brazilian Oscar is gradually being introduced, whilst Eden Hazard has been Chelsea’s star turn pulling the strings in midfield.
Newcastle’s opening clash in the Europa League ended with a 1-1 draw in Greece, but just two of the side that defeated Tottenham last weekend started. Newcastle have concerns over Coloccini, Ba and Tiote with all three facing fitness tests, but the Magpies have a good recent record against Chelsea and famously won at Stamford Bridge last season.
Chelsea have not kept a clean sheet at home since April and the attacking talent on both sides should see both sides find the net this weekend.
Both Teams to Score (Chelsea v Newcastle) @1.72
After a relatively quiet transfer window, Sunderland have moved to capture the signatures of Steven Fletcher and Adam Johnson for eight figure sums. The signings made by the Black Cats will likely drive the performances of players already at the club who may consider their position in the first team under threat.
Opponents Reading have played twice in the Premier League, picking up a point against Stoke last weekend. Reading’s performances will have undoubtedly pleased manager Brian McDermott and the service in the air to striker Pavel Pogbrenyak has been encouraging.
Striker Steven Fletcher is available to O’Neill who have a strong record at the Stadium of Light under the Northern Ireland manager.
Buoyed by the captures of Fletcher and Johnson, Sunderland should have too much for their newly promoted opponents.
Sunderland to win @1.85
Image Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ronmacphotos/
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