Premier League Predictions: Man Utd, Liverpool, City Face Tests

Sunday’s Premier League schedule throws up some fascinating fixtures as three title hopefuls travel to difficult grounds. Manchester United visit Elland Road, Liverpool head to Craven Cottage, while Manchester City host Chelsea in the evening kick-off.

Leeds vs Manchester United (13:30 GMT+1)

The Red Devils face a hostile atmosphere at Elland Road where Leeds fans will create an intimidating environment. United have struggled on the road this season, dropping points at grounds where they should collect three.

Leeds need every point in their survival fight. Their pressing game causes problems for bigger clubs who struggle with intensity. Manchester United’s midfield has looked exposed when opponents press high up the pitch.

I’m backing Leeds to get something from this match. A draw looks realistic given United’s away form and Leeds’ desperation for points. The home crowd will push their team forward.

Fulham vs Liverpool (16:00 GMT+1)

Liverpool travel to Fulham in what could be a banana skin fixture. The Reds have played too many matches recently and fatigue shows in their performances. Fulham possess quality attackers who punish tired defences.

Craven Cottage provides a tough test for any visiting team. Fulham’s home record shows they can compete with the league’s best sides. Liverpool’s defensive vulnerabilities have increased with their packed schedule.

This match could produce a shock result. Fulham might grab a point or even snatch all three if Liverpool’s legs go. I’m predicting the Cottagers will frustrate the visitors.

Tottenham vs Sunderland (16:00 GMT+1)

Spurs host Sunderland in a match that should see the home side dominate. However, Tottenham’s inconsistency this season means nothing comes guaranteed at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Sunderland will defend deep and look for counter-attacking opportunities. Spurs have struggled to break down packed defences in recent weeks. Their attacking players lack the patience needed against low blocks.

Tottenham should win this fixture, but don’t be surprised if they make hard work of it. The visitors will make life difficult for the hosts.

Newcastle vs Crystal Palace (16:00 GMT+1)

Newcastle face Crystal Palace at St James’ Park where the Magpies have been strong this term. Palace arrive in decent form but struggle against teams who press them high.

The home crowd will back Newcastle to collect three points. Palace’s away record shows they find it tough to get results at grounds like St James’ Park. Newcastle’s intensity should overwhelm the visitors.

I’m backing Newcastle to win comfortably. Their home advantage and current form make them favourites to beat Palace without too much trouble.

Everton vs Brentford (16:00 GMT+1)

Everton welcome Brentford to Goodison Park in a crucial fixture for both clubs. The Toffees need points to ease relegation fears while Brentford chase a top-half finish.

Brentford’s set-piece threat causes problems for any defence. Everton have looked shaky defending corners and free-kicks this season. The visitors score regularly from dead-ball situations.

This match looks like a score draw. Both teams possess attacking quality but show defensive weaknesses. Goals should come at both ends.

Manchester City vs Chelsea (18:30 GMT+1)

City host Chelsea in the evening fixture that could define both teams’ seasons. The Blues have tightened up defensively under recent coaching changes. Manchester City dominate possession but now face opponents who defend with discipline.

Chelsea won’t come to the Etihad Stadium just to defend. Their counter-attacking threat keeps City’s defenders honest. The visitors have taken points from difficult grounds this season.

I’m predicting a draw in this fixture. City won’t lose at home, but Chelsea can frustrate them and grab a point through smart defending and quick breaks.

Best Predictions for Sunday

The big clubs all face tough assignments this Sunday. Manchester United could drop points at Leeds, Liverpool might struggle at Fulham, and Manchester City may have to settle for a draw against Chelsea.

Leeds double chance offers value at 13:30. Fulham draw no bet looks smart for the 16:00 kick-off. Manchester City-Chelsea ending level provides good odds for the evening match.

Backing against the favourites makes sense when they show vulnerability. Sunday’s fixtures could deliver surprising results that shake up the Premier League table. The pressure sits on the big clubs to perform away from home or against well-organized opponents.