Early midweek action commences for matchday 33 with a trip to the midlands first of all with Wolves v Crystal Palace.
Wolves v Crystal Palace – Tuesday 25th April 2023 – 19:30 BST
Although losing at the King Power Stadium was a setback, Wolves have largely had favourable results, putting them 6 points ahead of the relegation zone with another fixture under their belt in the 2022/23 season. Despite only scoring 15 home goals, their 7-2-7 record at Molineux has laid the foundation for avoiding relegation.
While Wolves have suffered some recent disappointing defeats, they did manage to beat Chelsea and Brentford in consecutive League fixtures before their 2-1 loss at Leicester City. Of their last 7 League fixtures at Molineux, they have won 5, with the exceptions being defeats to Bournemouth and Leeds United.
For Mario Lemina and Boubacar Traore to be involved, they must pass fitness tests.
Under the guidance of the experienced manager, Crystal Palace have moved away from the bottom three, with the 12th placed club now 9 points clear of the relegation zone with just six League fixtures remaining. Their away record in the top flight this season stands at 4-4-8.
Crystal Palace’s recent form has been impressive, as they have picked up 10 points from a possible 12 under Roy Hodgson. Although they were held to a goalless draw by Everton on Saturday, they had won 3 straight League games before that. In their last two away games, they beat Leeds United and Southampton, and they will be aiming for a third successive away League win for the first time since May 2019.
Nathaniel Clyne and Wilfried Zaha are hopeful of returning soon, but this weekend’s game may come too soon for them. Meanwhile, Vicente Guiata has returned, but Sam Johnstone has performed well enough in goal while deputising that he has been informed he will remain the first choice for now.
The visiting team may be confident, but I have no doubt that the Wolves players will be happy to be back in their home comforts. Despite the disappointing loss to Leicester City, Julen Lopetegui has led the team to 5 wins in 7 home League games, and Wolves have proven to be a stubborn team that is difficult to break down at Molineux.
Clean sheets have become a regular occurrence for Wolves at home, and I believe this will be a closely contested fixture where the first goal could be crucial.
Both teams have shown resilience in recent games, and a point may be a decent result for both Wolves and Crystal Palace.
While I cannot take away from Wolves’ recent results, I do think this is a team that is playing with tight margins. Brentford and Chelsea could have easily secured something from their games against Wolves, and I believe Crystal Palace have demonstrated their ability to score away goals, which could earn them at least a point and possibly more.
Premier League Head to Head
| 18/10/22, 21:15 | Crystal Palace – Wolverhampton Wanderers | 2 : 1 (0 : 1) (2 : 0) |
| 05/03/22, 16:00 | Wolverhampton Wanderers – Crystal Palace | 0 : 2 (0 : 2) (0 : 0) |
| 06/11/21, 16:00 | Crystal Palace – Wolverhampton Wanderers | 2 : 0 (0 : 0) (2 : 0) |
| 30/01/21, 16:00 | Crystal Palace – Wolverhampton Wanderers | 1 : 0 (0 : 0) (1 : 0) |
| 30/10/20, 21:00 | Wolverhampton Wanderers – Crystal Palace | 2 : 0 (2 : 0) (0 : 0) |
Match Result Prediction
Crystal Palace to win.
Score Prediction
Wolves 1 – 2 Crystal Palace
Aston Villa v Fulham – Tuesday 25th April 2023 – 19:45 BST
The late equaliser at the Gtech Community Stadium has helped Aston Villa maintain their momentum as they aim for a spot in Europe next season. With confirmation that a top seven finish will secure a spot in Europe following the FA Cup Semi-Final results, Unai Emery’s side can apply pressure to those around them with a win on Tuesday.
Although Aston Villa are currently 6th in the Premier League table, a top-four finish seems like a distant dream, especially as they are only two points ahead of Brighton in 8th place, who have three games in hand. As tough fixtures loom ahead against Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Liverpool, it is crucial for Aston Villa to improve their home record of 9-2-5 at Villa Park.
After their late equaliser against Brentford, Aston Villa remain unbeaten in 9 Premier League games, but that result did put an end to their run of 5 consecutive victories. This week, they will aim to extend their home winning streak, having won their last 4 League games at Villa Park, all with clean sheets.
Although the recent results may not have pleased manager Marco Silva, he was annoyed by media suggestions that Fulham players were “on the beach” after a mostly successful season. While it seems unlikely that they will finish in the top seven and return to European football, their victory over Leeds United does provide an opportunity for a strong finish to the campaign.
Fulham will head into this fixture in 9th place in the Premier League table, 5 points behind 7th placed Liverpool, but they face a tough run of games. However, with a competitive away record of 6-2-7 in the Premier League, Fulham cannot be easily dismissed, even with their recent poor form.
Aston Villa’s unbeaten run in the League now stands at 9 games, of which they have won 7, while Fulham have secured back-to-back Premier League victories following a poor patch of form.
However, it is important to note that Fulham’s wins have come against teams currently in the bottom five, while Aston Villa’s standout win was over Newcastle United. That victory was achieved at Villa Park, where the home team have kept 4 clean sheets in a row and won all of those fixtures since their 2-4 defeat to Arsenal.
Under the guidance of Unai Emery, Aston Villa are playing with confidence and belief, as evidenced by their late equaliser against Brentford on Saturday. They are creating chances and looking solid defensively, particularly at home, and their recent underlying numbers are much more impressive than Fulham’s.
Premier League Head to Head
| 20/10/22, 20:30 | Fulham – Aston Villa | 3 : 0 (1 : 0) (2 : 0) |
| 04/04/21, 17:30 | Aston Villa – Fulham | 3 : 1 (0 : 0) (3 : 1) |
| 28/09/20, 18:45 | Fulham – Aston Villa | 0 : 3 (0 : 2) (0 : 1) |
| 05/04/14, 16:00 | Aston Villa – Fulham | 1 : 2 (0 : 0) (1 : 2) |
| 08/12/13, 14:30 | Fulham – Aston Villa | 2 : 0 (2 : 0) (0 : 0) |
Match Result Prediction
Aston Villa to win.
Score Prediction
Aston Villa 2 – 0 Fulham
Leeds United v Leicester City – Tuesday 25th April 2023 – 20:00 BST
After conceding a large number of goals in consecutive home games, it was not surprising to see Javi Gracia’s Leeds United play with more caution on Saturday. However, their ongoing defensive vulnerabilities are dragging the club towards the Championship, and the 2-1 loss at Fulham will have added further pressure on the players and the manager.
Despite results elsewhere over the weekend, Leeds United remain in 16th place in the Premier League table, but they are only one point clear of Everton in 18th place, with six League games yet to play. Hosting one of the teams below them presents a significant opportunity for Leeds United to create some breathing space between themselves and the relegation zone. However, there is plenty of pressure on a team that holds a record of 5-5-6 at Elland Road.
The decision to part ways with Brendan Rodgers appeared inevitable, but Leicester City fans were surprised to see Dean Smith, former manager of Aston Villa and Norwich City, appointed until the end of the season. Despite being unable to save Norwich City from relegation last season and overseeing a period of stagnation at Aston Villa, Leicester City fans were heartened by their team’s comeback victory over Wolves on Saturday.
The win has lifted Leicester City from 19th to 17th place in the Premier League table, although they are only outside the relegation zone on goal difference. This upcoming fixture feels crucial for Leicester City, who have a record of 4-1-11 away from home this season.
Predicting a winner in this fixture is difficult, although Leicester City’s win on Saturday may signal the start of a climb to safety for a club that has underperformed this season. A win at Elland Road would be a significant step towards that goal, but Leeds United have beaten some of the teams around them in recent weeks, which will give them confidence.
Despite a defensive collapse against Crystal Palace, Leeds United played well in the first half of that game, and I anticipate that there will be goals when these relegation-threatened clubs meet. While a draw may not be a terrible outcome for either team, the onus is on Leeds United to try and secure three points. This should lead to an open and entertaining game for neutrals to enjoy, but it will be filled with tension for both sets of fans.
Premier League Head to Head
| 20/10/22, 21:15 | Leicester City – Leeds United | 2 : 0 (2 : 0) (0 : 0) |
| 05/03/22, 13:30 | Leicester City – Leeds United | 1 : 0 (0 : 0) (1 : 0) |
| 07/11/21, 15:00 | Leeds United – Leicester City | 1 : 1 (1 : 1) (0 : 0) |
| 31/01/21, 15:00 | Leicester City – Leeds United | 1 : 3 (1 : 1) (0 : 2) |
| 02/11/20, 21:00 | Leeds United – Leicester City | 1 : 4 (0 : 2) (1 : 2) |
Match Result Prediction
Leeds United to win.
Score Prediction
Leeds United 1 – 0 Leicester City
Nottingham Forest v Brighton – Wednesday 26th April 2023 – 19:30 BST
Roberto De Zerbi believes that Brighton deserve more recognition for their performances, and he has emphasized that a strong end to the campaign could result in a very successful season for the club. The Italian manager’s approach has clearly resonated with the squad, who have displayed resilience and an ability to bounce back from setbacks, resulting in numerous wins and goals.
Although Evan Ferguson and Danny Welbeck may not be available for Wednesday’s game, Brighton has quality attackers in the final third who will create scoring opportunities. Despite having an extra 24 hours to prepare, Nottingham Forest will face a challenging game, as Brighton has players who can step up and make a difference.
Winning games at the City Ground has been difficult for visiting teams, although Newcastle United and Manchester United have managed to do so since mid-March. However, Brighton has demonstrated their capability to compete with top-four chasing teams, with recent victories over Bournemouth and Chelsea showcasing their productivity on the road.
Brighton has been creating numerous chances and exhibiting composure in the final third, which was perhaps lacking under Graham Potter. I anticipate that this will be the case once again, and Brighton can win a game with at least two goals on the night.
Premier League Head to Head
| 18/10/22, 20:30 | Brighton and Hove Albion – Nottingham Forest | 0 : 0 (0 : 0) (0 : 0) |
Match Result Prediction
Brighton to win.
Score Prediction
Nottingham Forest 0 – 1 Brighton
Chelsea v Brentford – Wednesday 26th April 2023 – 19:45 BST
Chelsea is currently in 11th place in the Premier League table, trailing Liverpool in 7th place by 11 points, with only 21 points remaining to play for. Furthermore, they are behind both West London rivals, Fulham and Brentford, and will seek to close the gap when they host Brentford at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday. However, their home record in the League has been poor, with a 6-5-5 record.
The team’s recent performances have been lackluster, having failed to win any of their last eight games across all competitions. Moreover, the decision to appoint Frank Lampard as interim manager has resulted in four consecutive losses and only one goal scored. Chelsea has also failed to win any of their last five matches at Stamford Bridge across all competitions, losing three of their last four.
Looking ahead, there is hope that Kalidou Koulibaly will be able to return for the following fixture.
Brentford’s recent form has not been encouraging, as they have won only one of their last eight Premier League games, resulting in fading hopes for a European spot. However, their draw with Aston Villa ended a three-game losing streak. The team has struggled to score in their last two away Premier League fixtures, losing 1-0 to Manchester United and 2-0 to Wolves, following a 3-3 draw against Brighton.
There is optimism that Christian Norgaard will be available, but Kristoffer Ajer and Keane Lewis-Porter may require additional time before returning to the matchday squad.
Brentford’s recent performances have also left much to be desired, but the team understands the expectations and is relieved to have ended their losing streak with a draw against Aston Villa. The lack of away goals and subpar defence are worrisome, but Brentford has been able to generate scoring opportunities, and they may view this match against Chelsea as a prime opportunity for an upset.
Last season, they accomplished this by beating a more solid Chelsea team 1-4 at Stamford Bridge, and I believe that Brentford has the potential to avoid defeat once again. While a full goal handicap would have been enticing, this Asian Handicap line is still strong enough to support backing The Bees against an out-of-sorts Chelsea side.
Although their recent away results have been a cause for concern, Brentford’s organisational structure should enable them to keep this game close, and it would not surprise me if they are able to depart Stamford Bridge with at least a point. Even a solitary goal might suffice, and I will support Brentford with the handicap.
Premier League Head to Head
| 19/10/22, 20:30 | Brentford – Chelsea | 0 : 0 (0 : 0) (0 : 0) | 12. Gameday |
| 02/04/22, 16:00 | Chelsea – Brentford | 1 : 4 (0 : 0) (1 : 4) | 31. Gameday |
| 16/10/21, 18:30 | Brentford – Chelsea | 0 : 1 (0 : 1) (0 : 0) | 8. Gameday |
Match Result Prediction
Brentford to win.
Score Prediction
Chelsea 0 – 1 Brentford
West Ham United v Liverpool – Wednesday 26th April 2023 – 19:45 BST
West Ham United have been in fine form lately, going unbeaten in their last five games across all competitions, and securing impressive victories with four goals scored in each of their recent games against Gent and Bournemouth. While they did suffer a painful 1-5 defeat at home to Newcastle United recently, they bounced back in their last Premier League match at home against Arsenal, recovering from a 0-2 deficit to salvage a point.
Gianluca Scamacca is the only player who is anticipated to be absent from the squad.
Liverpool have been in good form lately, going unbeaten in their last four games since their 4-1 defeat to Manchester City earlier this month. They have secured back-to-back victories in the Premier League against Leeds United and Nottingham Forest, scoring a total of nine goals in those two matches. The six goals they scored at Elland Road surprised many, given that Liverpool had failed to win any of their previous four away games in the league and had only managed to score one goal in those fixtures.
Roberto Firmino is expected to make a return to the team next month, before he departs from Liverpool. Although the manager may want to avoid disrupting a winning team, he may make one or two changes to the lineup.
While Liverpool have been scoring heavily with nine goals in their last two Premier League wins, their defensive weaknesses continue to plague them. This could give West Ham United some confidence, especially as Liverpool have struggled away from home this season. However, Liverpool’s attacking prowess is undeniable and they are likely to cause problems for the West Ham defense.
Both teams are expected to find the back of the net in this fixture and the three points up for grabs are crucial for both sides. West Ham may be content with a draw to move further away from the relegation zone, while Liverpool need a win to keep their top-four hopes alive. With both teams playing an attacking style, this could be an open game with at least three goals scored.
Premier League Head to Head
| 19/10/22, 20:30 | Liverpool – West Ham United | 1 : 0 (1 : 0) (0 : 0) |
| 05/03/22, 18:30 | Liverpool – West Ham United | 1 : 0 (1 : 0) (0 : 0) |
| 07/11/21, 17:30 | West Ham United – Liverpool | 3 : 2 (1 : 1) (2 : 1) |
| 31/01/21, 17:30 | West Ham United – Liverpool | 1 : 3 (0 : 0) (1 : 3) |
| 31/10/20, 18:30 | Liverpool – West Ham United | 2 : 1 (1 : 1) (1 : 0) |
Match Result Prediction
Liverpool to win.
Score Prediction
West Ham United 1 – 3 Liverpool
Everton v Newcastle – Thursday 27th April 2023 – 19:45 BST
If Everton were to be relegated at the end of the season, it could result in significant financial difficulties for the club. Currently, they are in 18th place in the Premier League table, though this is only based on goal difference. With six league games remaining, the team is fighting to avoid relegation, and the standings could shift significantly before their next game on Thursday, particularly as two of their relegation rivals, Leeds United and Leicester City, will be playing against each other. Despite a poor home record of 5-3-8, Everton have managed to battle for points in recent games, including a draw at Selhurst Park. However, their last game at Goodison Park ended in a disappointing defeat to Fulham, and they have only won one of their last four Premier League games there. Everton’s missing players include Abdoulaye Doucoure, who has been a notable absence, though he is now back from suspension. Amadou Onana remains doubtful, while Seamus Coleman is expected to return early next week, but Mason Holgate is suspended.
After a crushing defeat to Aston Villa, Newcastle United needed a strong performance to get back on track for a Champions League spot in the Premier League. To everyone’s surprise, the team managed to score five goals against Tottenham Hotspur in just 21 minutes on Sunday, putting them in the running for a top-four finish. Despite their recent success, no one could have predicted such a massive victory.
The win has propelled Newcastle United to 3rd place in the Premier League table, with a six-point lead over Tottenham Hotspur, who are in 5th place and have played one more game. The team’s focus now is on maintaining their momentum with another win on Thursday, and their 7-6-3 away record in the top flight suggests they are capable of doing so.
Newcastle United’s current position is due to a run of six wins in their last seven Premier League games, which helped them bounce back from the poor showing at Villa Park. Before that defeat, they had won three consecutive away Premier League games against Nottingham Forest, West Ham United, and Brentford.
Everton is a team that doesn’t take any game lightly, regardless of how challenging it may appear on paper, and I believe they will put up a fight against Newcastle United.
Despite Newcastle’s impressive record of three consecutive away wins against Nottingham Forest, West Ham United, and Brentford, they have started conceding more goals recently. However, beating them will still be a tough task, particularly because of their ability to win against relegation-threatened clubs.
Eddie Howe’s team is slowly starting to create more significant chances, and players like Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson are in excellent form, which is resulting in more goals. Additionally, their squad is healthier than it has been in a while. Newcastle United will have the momentum from their 6-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, but they have allowed goals in each of their last six away Premier League games. On the other hand, Everton has scored in five of the six games played at home under Sean Dyche.
While I believe that both teams are capable of scoring, there is an advantage in attempting to win the game, which could result in more attacks. The odds against a high-scoring match seem to be underestimated, given the importance of this fixture in both the top and bottom of the Division.
Premier League Head to Head
| 19/10/22, 20:30 | Newcastle United – Everton | 1 : 0 (1 : 0) (0 : 0) |
| 17/03/22, 20:45 | Everton – Newcastle United | 1 : 0 (0 : 0) (1 : 0) |
| 08/02/22, 20:45 | Newcastle United – Everton | 3 : 1 (1 : 1) (2 : 0) |
| 30/01/21, 13:30 | Everton – Newcastle United | 0 : 2 (0 : 0) (0 : 2) |
| 01/11/20, 15:00 | Newcastle United – Everton | 2 : 1 (0 : 0) (2 : 1) |
Match Result Prediction
Newcastle United to win.
Score Prediction
Everton 1 – 2 Newcastle United
