Former Real Madrid striker, Michael Owen, has predicted some of this weekend’s English Premier Leagues, EPL, fixtures.
Manchester City will host Chelsea on Saturday evening at Etihad, while Manchester United will face Aston Villa in an away Premier League tie on Sunday afternoon.
Arsenal will host West Brom at Emirates on Sunday night, while Liverpool will tackle Southampton on Saturday night at Anfield.
Providing his predictions, Owen told BetVictor, “It’s a dress rehearsal of the UEFA Champions League final at the Etihad as Chelsea make the trip north.
“This should be another intense tactical battle between two of the best managers in the game. What makes it more interesting, is that both have contrasting styles.
“We saw that in their FA Cup tie when Chelsea took the spoils. I think they’ll set up much the same here and try to hit City on the counter.
“Those tactics worked a treat in their midweek win against Real Madrid, however, City’s much improved defence will be harder to breach.
“For City, we know what to expect. Ball retention is a huge part of their game, so with that, coupled with Chelsea’s patient approach, I can see another tight game evolving. It’s set to be a fascinating encounter, but it’s one I think is likely to end all square. Manchester City 1, Chelsea 1.”
Commenting on the Aston Villa vs Manchester United game, Owen said, “Many a classic has been played down the years between these two at Villa Park. Can you believe that Villa’s last win against United at home was back in 1995?
“So, with that in mind, it’s fair to say this is a happy hunting ground for the Red Devils. What’s more, the visitors arrive here undefeated in their last 24 away games in the Premier League.
“Both these sides have been excellent on the counter this season, and when sides that play that way meet, it can often result in a cagey affair.
“I am thinking this one could be just like that, although I do believe United have enough to take the points. Aston Villa 0, Manchester United 1.”
Speaking on the Arsenal v West Brom match, Owen said, “West Brom visit London with nothing other than pride to play for after suffering relegation from the Premier League. They take on an Arsenal side that were unlucky to go out of the Europa League on Thursday night.
“They created loads of chances, but it just wasn’t enough. Unfortunately for West Brom, I think this could be the case of meeting a ‘wounded animal’ and reckon they may feel the wrath of a frustrated Arsenal side. Arsenal 3, West Brom 1.”
On the Liverpool vs Southampton clash, Owen said, “With last week’s match against Manchester United postponed, Liverpool should come into this one with fresh legs. The Reds’ will have the option to use all their strikers as well, something that hasn’t always been available this season for Jurgen Klopp.
“You must give Southampton credit for taking a point against Leicester last week. The Saints played most of the match with ten men, but despite that, really got stuck in. Manager Ralph Hasenhüttl will have been delighted with that; however, his side’s form on the road has been a huge cause for concern in recent weeks.
“Southampton defeated Liverpool early in the season during a spell where the Reds had a lot of injuries. That list has reduced considerably now, and with a Champions League spot in their sights, I think it will be Liverpool who takes the points. Liverpool 2, Southampton 0.”
EPL: Michael Owen predicts Man City vs Chelsea, Arsenal, Man United, other fixtures
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