2023/2024 EPL Week 9 Preview

It’s another big week of local derbies in the Premier League as domestic football returns after the international break.

Saturday night begins with the Merseyside Derby at Anfield as Liverpool takes on Everton before the night closes out with a London Derby between heavy hitters Arsenal and Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

In between that there is one of the more fascinating fixtures of the season with Manchester City hosting Brighton.

We’ve got you covered with our previews and best bets for all ten matches below so read on and find out who we are backing.

You have to give Everton some credit, after a couple of awful seasons it looked like we were heading for another pretty poor campaign, but they have been able to take nine points from their last four matches.

However, their history in the derby is not great, with Liverpool winning three of the last four and Everton’s being held scoreless for over 320 minutes of football.

As for Liverpool, they had a rough run into the international break with a controversial loss at the hands of Spurs before a fighting draw with Brighton.

The Reds are the better team and are justifiably clear favourites, so I’ll back it to be just like it was in February, taking a Liverpool win with Mo Salah on the scoresheet.

SGM: Mo Salah Anytime Goalscorer and Liverpool Win @ $2.20

Wolves are another team that looks like they have shaken off their slow start to the season and are finally showing some fight.

A pair of draws either side of a win over Manchester City has finally given them some momentum and Bournemouth are ripe for the picking.

The Cherries have one point from their last four in the Premier League and are yet to win a game, which makes their favouritism all the more surprising.

Get on the value and back Wolves to come away with all three points.

Wolves to Win @ $2.90

We really have not seen a lot of good signs from either club just yet with a grand total of two combined wins from 16 matches to begin the campaign.

The Bees have battled out four draws to the Claret’s one which is all that separates the two sides on the table.

Between them, there has been a grand total of one clean sheet in the Premier League this season which is not exactly a vote of confidence in either backline.

Take the over and hope it’s an entertaining contest.

Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.83

The reigning champions are reeling with back to back Premier League defeats and three losses from their last four in all competitions.

However, they have earned the benefit of the doubt considering Pep Guardiola will have spent the last two weeks in the lab coming up with a new approach to right the ship.

Brighton is another side that needs a course correction after their play went off the rails in the leadup to the international break.

Two draws and two losses, including a 6-1 hammering from Villa, is not a great run of results and while they are good enough to sort themselves out, City is the one to back here.

Manchester City to Win and Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.80

On the back of five wins and two draws from their last seven matches in all competitions has Newcastle as one of the form teams in England.

Considering their last up draw with West Ham came on the back of a historic 4-1 win over PSG, those points dropped can be somewhat excused.

Palace just doesn’t have the firepower to compete with Newcastle and trade goals, they have scored two goals in their last five matches and seven from eight matches on the season.

Look for the Magpies to win this one easily and I’ll back them with a one goal handicap.

Newcastle to Win -1 Goal @ $2.25

We probably won’t be seeing a lot of goalmouth action in this game with two sides happy to grind out their results facing off.

Forest’s last game that featured more than two goals came in late August at Old Trafford with a run of six unders in all competitions.

Luton has only scored more than one goal in a Premier League match once this season and the unders have hit in four of their last six.

Add in the fact the last four head to head games have all been low scoring grinds, you can see where the numbers are pointing for this game.

Under 2.5 Goals @ $1.75

Not that long ago, the thought of the Gunners being favoured heading to Stamford Bridge was laughable.

But history is on their side with the last three head to head games at this venue going the way of Mikel Arteta’s men.

The last time Chelsea beat their London rivals at home was way back in August 2018 and based on their recent performances, it’s hard to see that ending here.

They might have picked up wins over Burnley and Fulham but they have taken just four of a possible 12 points at home this season and I’ll jump on the Gunners here.

Arsenal to Win @ $2.30

United might have been bad this season, but they have the Blades covered by a long way here.

With a grand total of one point from eight matches, which came against an at the time battling Everton team, the Blades are the worst team in the Premier League.

They have been kept scoreless in two of their last three games and United are starting to show some signs of progress.

If United get going early this could turn into a blowout.

Manchester United to Win to Nil @ $2.55

We’ve got a pair of dynamic attacking teams on the cards here and that should produce an open ended contest.

Villa is the better side and deserved favourites, but West Ham should be able to cause some problems with the set piece delivery of James Ward-Prowse.

There is just enough about the Irons to give cause for concern backing Villa at the price and I’m going to sit back on the results market and back the over instead.

Over 3.5 Goals @ $2.35

Let’s finish this week up on a winning note as Spurs look to continue their unbeaten start to the season.

Depending on the Arsenal result they could wind up in sole possession of top spot with a win in this fixture.

Scoring was a major issue for Fulham to start the season but it appears as though they are starting to find their shooting boots which is a good sign for their chances here.

If there is one mark against Tottenham thus far, it is that they leave themselves open at the back but it makes overs the way to go and I’ll pair that with a Spurs win since they are the better team.

Tottenham to Win and Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.00

2022/2023

The Premier League is back for a busy run into the World Cup and this weekend is headlined by a pair of massive derbies.

It all gets underway with the North London Derby between Arsenal and Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium as both clubs will look to use this as a measuring stick.

Then there’s the Manchester Derby as the reigning champions of England, City will look to inflict plenty of pain on their local rivals.

Read on for our previews and best bets for every Premier League match.

It’s the biggest North London Derby since… well the last time these teams faced off and while it is too early in the season to call this a decider for anything other than bragging rights, both teams will view this as a must win.

Arsenal is on top of the Premier League and will be desperate to maintain that position while Spurs sit just one point adrift as Antonio Conte’s masterplan begins to take shape.

Spurs won the meeting at the back end of last season, helping them pip the Gunners to fourth place but there is something different about this Arsenal team so far.

They can play some enthralling football and have the talent to match Spurs stars too.

We could be in for a goal fest at the Emirates and I’ll take the Gunners to come out on top.

SGM: Arsenal to Win and Both Teams to Score @ $3.66

You have to give interim Bournemouth boss Gary O’Neil plenty of credit, picking up a win and two draws from their three matches prior to the break.

As for Brentford, we really don’t seem to know which version of the club is going to show up, if it’s the good one that put five past Leeds they are morals, if it’s the opposite, jump on Bournemouth.

What does seem far more easy to get a read on is the chances of this one becoming a high scoring fixture.

Five of Brentford’s and four of Bournemouth’s matches have gone over 2.5 goals, some by quite a lot.

Back Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.98

A month off has helped out Palace’s lengthy injury list but there’s still plenty of Patrick Vieira to fix up with this squad.

Don’t be surprised if there is a bit of rust for the Eagles in this one as they prepare for their first match since a scoreless draw with Newcastle on September 4.

New manager Graham Potter will be eager to pick up maximum points here as his side looks to rebound from a rough start under Thomas Tuchel.

If there is one thing Potter can bring to Chelsea, it’s a stingy defence and that’s what I’ll expect to lead them to maximum points here.

Back Chelsea to Win to Nil @ $3.00

Five draws from seven matches is not the start Newcastle would have envisioned however with several key attackers missing matches, it’s not the worst outcome for them.

However they will head into this match still missing the likes of Alex Isak and injury clouds still hover over Allan Saint-Maximin and Callum Wilson.

Fulham’s Premier League return is going a lot better than their previous one two seasons ago and they are proving to be a stubborn opponent against teams that may take them lightly.

Their injury list is significantly lighter and if Newcastle isn’t close to full strength, this game suddenly becomes a lot less predictable.

I can’t split these sides and will settle for a draw.

Back the Draw @ $3.35

When Brighton last took to the pitch, this would have been a match they felt they had a great chance in.

However with the departure of Graham Potter, there is a lot that will need to be sorted out amongst that squad.

Neither side will have played a league match since the weekend of September 3 so there could be a slight acclimatisation period taking place.

Liverpool should get off to a faster start and hold on for a win from there.

Back Liverpool HT/FT @ $2.05

For all of the (deserved) criticism Everton took over the last year, they have now gone unbeaten in their last five Premier League matches.

Conversely, Southampton has dropped three of their last four (although the other game was a win over a dysfunctional Chelsea) and may be starting to stumble.

Truth be told this is one of those games that is very tough to get a read on because of the lengthy layoff for both clubs.

With both sides more than capable of picking up a win, look for another draw here.

Back the Draw @ $3.30

This is a game for the goalkeepers union with a clean sheet on both sides looking more probable than not.

Wolves managed to sign Diego Costa to address their shortcomings in front of goal but he may be a few weeks off becoming a regular fixture of this side.

As for the two clubs, they have combined for a paltry six goals on the season, a number that would be the second worst tally in the Premier League.

Take the under.

Back Under 2.5 Goals @ $1.70

Erik ten Haag gets his first taste of the Manchester Derby and history is not really on his side.

In the post Sir Alex Ferguson era, all five United managers have lost their first match against City and despite United’s course correction before the international break, it’s tough to expect a whole lot from the red half of the town.

As it stands, the market is not expecting much from United either with the red hot City a very short priced favourite to pick up another three points.

These sorts of occasions were made for the likes of Erling Haaland and on his derby debut, the Premier League’s leading goalscorer is also primed for a big day.

SGM: Manchester City to Win -1 Goal and Erling Haaland Anytime Goalscorer @ $2.21

Jump on board the Leeds bandwagon, they are ready to make some noise this year.

Add in the fact that Villa has been a good side to take on this season and you have a fairly straightforward selection for this one.

We can only hope there is a bit more life in this one than their preseason friendly in Brisbane earlier this year!

Back Leeds to Win @ $2.25

Neither side appears to be able to win a football match at the moment, in large part because they cannot defend.

Leicester gave up 11 goals in their two matches prior to the international break while Forest conceded 14 in their last four defeats.

Considering the respective struggles of both sides, there is no way you can back either team to win with any confidence, but you can back the over.

Back Over 3.5 Goals @ $2.65

2021/2022

As the Premier League approaches its quarter mark of the season, some teams will be searching for consistency as we head into the next phase of the season.

Week 9 is headlined by the premiere rivalry of English football as Liverpool heads to the Theatre of Dreams to take on a desperate Manchester United side.

With the pressure being raised on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as United falls further behind the Premier League leaders, it is do or die time for the Red Devils.

We have previewed all 10 Premier League matches below so read on and see who we are backing here!

While Arsenal will not be overly happy with back to back draws from their last two matches, Mikel Arteta has to be happy with the fortitude his players showed to grab a point against Crystal Palace on Tuesday morning.

They were largely second best after halftime but Alex Lacazette was able to poke home a close range finish late to extend the Gunners unbeaten run to six games.

Aston Villa is in dire need of a confidence booster after blowing a 2-0 lead to Wolves in the final 10 minutes plus stoppage time last weekend.

However they have won their last three against Arsenal, keeping a clean sheet in every match.

The Gunners should win this game, even with the injury cloud over Bukayo Saka, in large part because Villa just seem like they are struggling for an identity at the moment.

Back Arsenal to Win @ $1.91

Norwich managed to double their season points tally with a draw against Brighton but there is no reason for punters to change their approach to their matches.

A second consecutive clean sheet is something to be please with, however a third straight Premier League game without a goal is not a good sign.

There is only one question for this match and it is simply, Chelsea by how much?

It was a grind in their trip to Brentford last weekend, coming away with a 1-0 win however this is going to be a much less stressful match for the fan base.

Even the market is heavily slanted towards a big Chelsea win while keeping a clean sheet, but a same game multi with a goalscorer comes with a bit of risk given the Blues midweek Champions League commitments.

For that reason, I’ll go for something a bit safer and dip into the doubles market.

Back Chelsea to Win and Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.70

Crystal Palace is fast becoming the draw specialists of the Premier League, splitting the points in their last three matches.

Newcastle’s new era began in less than favourable fashion falling 3-2 to Tottenham, however punters that followed a trend in their matches were rewarded once again.

Both Teams to Score hit for the sixth Newcastle game in a row and seventh time this season.

Meanwhile Palace had their second consecutive 2-2 draw last week, in which Over 2.5 Goals hit for the sixth time.

Between them these sides have won one match this season, it’s not worth going near the head to head result, but there is value to be had backing goals in this one.

Back Both Teams to Score and Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.25

Watford were so poor against Liverpool last weekend, there were some wondering if Claudio Ranieri’s time as manager would be 90 minutes plus stoppage time.

Not that it would have been fair on the Italian, but that’s just the way they work.

What it did show was the scale of the task at hand for him and he will look for his first points against Everton this weekend.

The Toffees have fallen apart recently, winning just once in their last four matches and their inconsistency makes their $1.62 head to head price a very dicey option.

Prior to the Liverpool blowout, Watford was showing signs of improving defensively and Everton will (at the time of writing) likely be without Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison again.

Don’t expect a lot of goals here.

Back Under 2.5 Goals @ $1.85

Wolves are currently in possession of the longest winning streak in the Premier League having taken their last three against Aston Villa, Newcastle and Southampton.

It’s not what you would call a murderer’s row in terms of fixture difficulty but Leeds is at a similar level of quality than those sides.

No matter which way you look at it, you cannot justify how Leeds are favoured in this match but it does make for a relatively straightforward value play.

Take Wolves before their price drops.

Back Wolves to Win @ $2.90

This is the least inspiring clash of the weekend between two sides that have really failed to fire this far.

Burnley’s previously stingy defence is working overtime to cover for the second worst attack in the competition and the latter is a big reason why they are yet to win.

Southampton has drawn half of its matches despite boasting the third worst attack in the Premier League and finally got its first win with a 1-0 triumph over Leeds last weekend.

On the surface it makes sense for the Saints to be favoured but I just can’t see how you can back either team with any confidence right now.

A point each way seems like a solid value option given the struggles of both clubs.

Back the Draw @ $3.50

This is not a misprint, Manchester City is chasing its first back to back Premier League wins since September 12 when they defeated Arsenal and Leicester.

Following last weekend’s win over Burnley, you have to like their chances, even against a stubborn Brighton side that has drawn its last three.

Their attack has vanished with one goal in those three matches but their defence has stood up.

City flexed their attacking muscle with a 5-1 midweek Champions League victory and should be able to get the job done on their trip to the South Coast.

Back Manchester City/Manchester City Halftime/Fulltime @ $2.20

How will Leicester back up from its biggest win of the season?

After putting four past Manchester United, they have a tough trip to take on a stubborn Brentford outfit.

If they play to their potential they should be able to come away with all three points but have a tough task, coming back from a Europa League tie in Moscow.

Not to mention, they have lost and drawn in their two matches following a Europa League fixture.

However, as outsiders, it is tough to pass up the value on offer even at a stadium that has proven to be a tough out for visitors.

Leicester remains the better team of the two.

Back Leicester to Win @ $2.70

West Ham and Tottenham remains one of the more underrated rivalries in the Premier League as these two London clubs will face off again.

Over the past three seasons it has been a back and forth encounter with Tottenham winning three, West Ham winning two and one draw in their Premier League meetings.

We should be in for a relatively high scoring encounter with Spurs last five matches all featuring three or more goals.

West Ham are averaging almost two goals per game and looking at the attackers on display here, it’s worth taking the over.

Back Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.83

This could be the final nail in the wild managerial stint of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer if United loses to Liverpool.

What started off as a season full of title hopes have seen them stumble in a bad way, dropping points in each of their last three fixtures.

Something is not right at Old Trafford as this side frantically searches for some balance and quality.

It is not the state anyone would want to be in with a suddenly rampant Liverpool coming to town.

Mo Salah is in Ballon D’Or winning form and a ruthless front line for the visitors will make life tough for United’s defence.

I’ll go with a Same Game Multi in this one as Liverpool puts more pressure on United’s embattled boss.

SGM: Liverpool to Win, Both Teams to Score, Mo Salah Anytime Goalscorer @ $5.83

2020/2021

The English Premier League is back after the November international break and there’s plenty to look forward to this weekend with a number of huge clashes.

Saturday night’s action is headlined by Tottenham hosting Manchester City and Sunday features a proper blockbuster between Leicester and Liverpool.

We’ve previewed all ten matches coming up this weekend and tried to look through the chaos to find the best bets below.

Newcastle is a strange team to dissect with their form swinging wildly between two extremes.

When they are on their game they can compete with plenty of teams however their no-shows see them turn in a performance that would have them in danger of relegation in the Championship.

What is undeniable is the fact Chelsea is a much better team and the squad was really starting to come together, winning their last four matches before the players dispersed around the world.

There is enough talent to see them home in this clash and with Chelsea’s form in front of goals, scoring three or more in their last four matches, I’ll take the win and over in the doubles market.

Back Chelsea to Win & Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.15

This market should make you do a double take considering how far apart the two sides are on the Premier League table.

Villa got themselves back into form with a convincing win against Arsenal at the Emirates in the final match before the international break and wiping the stink that had lingered from their prior two defeats.

It’s fairly safe to say that Brighton will find themselves in another relegation batte with just one Premier League victory, however they are finding ways to scrap in their recent matches, drawing three of their past four.

Based on what we have seen from both of these sides, the price for Villa seems way too high but at anything over $2 I’ll back them in.

Back Aston Villa to Win @ $2.20

There’s a dirty little secret about City so far this season, and it’s that they might not be that good (by their standards at least).

Three wins, three draws and a defeat from their seven matches so far and it’s not like they have faced a murderer’s row of opponents either.

Because of City not yet looking like a proper Pep Guardiola team, I’m giving Tottenham a real shot in this one.

At some point pride will come in for the visitors but I just can’t see them coming away with all 3 points.

I will still give them enough credit to think they will come away with at least a draw however, but this won’t be an easy result for either team.

Back the Draw @ $3.75

Manchester United might not be cruising at the moment but they are definitely capable of taking care of a thoroughly underwhelming West Brom side.

This is the perfect opportunity for the under fire Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to get some positive momentum with his seat temperature rising quickly.

With United at such a short price head to head you might have to get a bit creative finding the value, but the handicap market is a decent second place to go.

Considering the overall mismatch, a -1 handicap is a fairly decent margin to have on hand.

Back Manchester United to Win -1 Goal @ $1.91

Everton’s fast start to the season is a distant memory with three straight losses halting all momentum.

On the plus side, Fulham’s form all season has been nothing short of atrocious with their one win coming over fellow strugglers West Brom.

It looks like the market is starting to lose faith in Everton which is more than fine by me for two reasons, firstly the Toffees are a much better side.

Secondly, I am more than happy to back against Fulham week in, week out, especially when their opponent is someone who won’t be struggling to stay up this season.

Back Everton to Win @ $1.85

As much fun as it was to back Sheffield in the early stages of last season, it’s just as much fun to back against them with their struggles now.

One draw, seven defeats and just four goals scored on the season is why they are anchored to the foot of the table.

West Ham has the capacity to score twice in this game, Sheffield does not.

At this price it really is that simple.

Back West Ham to Win @ $2.40

Under normal circumstances, this would have been a phenomenal clash to be played at a packed Elland Road.

Leeds have really struggled defensively in their last two matches, conceding eight goals to Leicester and Crystal Palace.

Arsenal on the other hand went down to Aston Villa in their last match before the international breal.

This match really could go either way if Marcelo Bielsa can get his side firing on all cylinders and there is plenty of cause for concern about Arsenal’s form as well.

The value play here is to back a high scoring affair as both sides try to get back into winning form.

Back Over 3.5 Goals @ $2.45

In a straight up tipping competition I would probably take Liverpool on first glance, but from a punting perspective, you have to like the Premier League leading Foxes.

Considering how many players Liverpool will be missing, including Mo Salah, this has the makings of an “everything goes wrong” contest.

Leicester has won their last six matches in all competitions, three of which came in the Premier League against Arsenal, Leeds and Wolves.

Take the value on offer as long as the price stays above $3.50.

Back Leicester to Win @ $3.55

Normally this would be the spot for an unders play given the time slot for this match but this is another market that is a bit befuddling based on the form of both teams.

Palace is looking good if not great while Burnley have two points on the season from seven starts.

The visitors have won two of their last three including a convincing demolition of Leeds before the international break

For some reason both teams are at $2.65 to win this game which just seems way out of line.

Back Crystal Palace to Win @ $2.65

On paper, Wolves should have this match covered, but Southampton’s six match unbeaten run warrants some consideration.

Three straight wins over Everton, Aston Villa and Newcastle have seen them rocket up into the top four and they sit just two points off the top of the table.

Wolves are still a bit up and down, but they are finding ways to grind out results even if they are still below their best.

I’m having a tough time separating these teams and because of that I’ll fall squarely on the fence and back the draw.

Back the Draw @ $3.05

2019/2020

Normal service can resume, the Premier League is back for another week and there are plenty of things to look forward to this weekend.

Above all else it’s the Manchester United-Liverpool clash that will take centre stage as the Reds look to take advantage of their floundering rivals and pile on more misery.

Elsewhere, do we have to worry about Manchester City after a second loss of the season for a team that doesn’t drop points.

You’d be silly to declare the title race over by any stretch but as we’ve seen the last two years, the standard to win the best league in the world has gone to another level and the margin for error is now miniscule.

Let’s see how things play out this weekend and we have previews and betting plays for all ten fixtures here.

Will the international break be just what Everton needed to get out of its funk?

You would have to think after four straight losses, the pressure is rising on Marco Silva to get things right at the Toffees sooner rather than later.

West Ham for the most part has been exceptional over the opening couple of months, battling and scraping their way as high as fifth place.

There is always the unknown element of West Ham who could win a match 5-0 then lose the next week 6-0.

After having had a fortnight to stew over their loss to Palace, they look way over the odds here, especially considering Everton haven’t given you any cause for optimism lately.

Back West Ham to Win @ $3.70

You can’t really hold Bournemouth’s loss away to Arsenal in their last match against them… but you sure can hold Norwich’s three straight losses against them, especially being outscored 9-1 in those matches.

Whatever magic was around the Canaries to kick off the new campaign has clearly worn off and they now have to try and right the ship.

It’s hard to see the Premier League’s leakiest defence holding out a side that is as free flowing as Bournemouth though and this could be a very high scoring affair, at least for one side.

SGM: Bournemouth to Win & Over 3.5 Goals @ $3.12

It might all be coming together for Aston Villa, at least in an attacking sense.

In their last three games, they scored nine goals, of course a leaky backline meant that they only took four points from those contests.

Brighton brings a similar form line into this contest but will have had the last fortnight to enjoy a monumental upset of Tottenham.

A hot and cold attack has been their undoing this season with six of their eight goals being scored in their two victories this season so the big question remains, which Brighton attack will show up here?

Both sides have plenty of goals in them and with Mat Ryan coming back from double duty with the Socceroos so there is a chance he may be rested for this clash which won’t help Brighton’s defensive solidarity.

Instead of taking a side in this game, I’ll go for a same game multi where both sides score and there’s at least four goals in the match.

SGM: Both Teams to Score Over 3.5 Goals @ $3.17

Chelsea are working with a mostly inexperienced manager in his first season with the club, dealing with a transfer ban and having to navigate a few injuries to big players… and they’re still going to be a tougher out than Manchester United.

At home they should be able to handle Newcastle, the Magpies last win at Stamford Bridge came in 2012 and the recent meetings have been mostly all Chelsea.

Last season it was a pair of 2-1 wins and while the Blues might have to work for it, they should get over the line here.

For a bit of added value, throw in Michy Batshuayi to get on the pitch and follow up his 16^th goal for Belgium with his second Premier League goal of the season for Chelsea.

SGM: Chelsea to Win & Michy Batshuayi Anytime Goalscorer @ $2.31

Never mind Leicester losing to Liverpool, everyone does, they are flying in fourth place right now and you have to like their chances most weeks.

Burnley should give them a real test here though, unbeaten in their last four and up to seventh place.

All signs are pointing to this being a low scoring affair with Leicester only conceding seven goals all season and Burnley giving up nine.

Each of the last seven meetings between Leicester and Burnley have finished with three of fewer goals and despite the likes of Jamie Vardy looking pretty sharp, this should be a case of first to two wins.

SGM: Leicester to Win & Under 3.5 Goals @ $2.14

Two sides you’d normally be pretty happy to back against at the moment face off and it begs the question, which side scares you the least.

Obviously the answer here is going to be Spurs, that club is in need of a massive wake up call and belting the living daylights out of the Premier League’s lone winless team might just be what they need.

It’s been three matches since Watford managed to score and even with Spurs conceding in three straight, they should take care of business here.

SGML Tottenham to Win to Nil @ $2.60

Better late than never but Wolves have won two straight including a huge confidence booster before the break, taking all three points off Manchester City.

Even more impressively, both of those wins saw them keep consecutive Premier League clean sheets for the first time since match week’s seven and eight of last season.

Southampton is really struggling for consistency at the moment, three straight losses has seen them drop all the way down to 17^th and all things being equal, Wolves should be able to knock off their south coast rivals here.

While it is tempting to go for value and take Wolves to win to nil, the insurance of an outright victory seems like the smart play here considering this is the same side that gave up three to Everton.

Back Wolves to Win @ $1.80

City won’t lose back to back Premier League matches, plain and simple.

Sure Palace went to the Etihad and won back in December but you’d be silly to expect no response from the defending champions here.

Outside of that loss to Wolves, every City match has seen a hatful of goals and if that forward line wants to atone for being kept out last time, they could score plenty against a Palace side that won’t be able to keep up in a shootout.

For this one, look for a same game multi with City at the halftime/fulltime double and over 2.5 goals as Pep Guardiola gets the focus back in his team ahead of the next stretch.

SGM: Manchester City Halftime/Fulltime & Over 2.5 Goals

This used to be the must watch fixture in the Premier League, now… it’s a Big Six clash in name at least.

Liverpool has flown out to the best start in the competition and has an eight point lead over its nearest challenger already, United on the other hand has just two wins from eight matches and the same points total as Brighton and recently promoted Sheffield United.

Just let that sink in for a second, with nine points from eight matches, Brighton, Sheffield United… and Manchester United.

It would be totally fitting if this is where they ended Liverpool’s perfect start but is it worth taking the risk on?

Of course not, if anything seems more likely, it’s that Liverpool come into Old Trafford and put more pressure on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Back Liverpool to Win -1 Goal @ $2.88

If Arsenal is serious about a top four challenge this season, this is the stretch where they need to build up a solid bank of points before the festive period.

Up first is promoted Sheffield United, who have to be thinking they could pinch something off a side that struggles away from the comfortable confines of home.

From their four away matches so far, the Gunners have defeated Newcastle on opening day, then lost to Liverpool and been held to draws by winless Watford and struggling Manchester United.

Something just isn’t clicking for the Gunners and maybe its got to do with the way Unai Emery sets his team up.

Here though, they need to break the shackles and come out on the front foot and if they can, they should be able to pick up a win, even if it might not be the prettiest game.

Back Arsenal to Win @ $1.91

2018/2019

With the international window over and done with we are back for another round of club action this weekend starting off with a huge clash between Manchester Untied and Chelsea.

Historically, these games have not always been the most entertaining contests, the rising pressure on Jose Mourinho makes this must watch TV.

There are plenty of exciting Premier League contests in store across the weekend and read on for our previews, predictions and Same Game Multis from all ten matches.

Mourinho watch is officially on and it would be somewhat poetic if the match that sealed his fate at Manchester United came not only against the other English side he managed, but the venue where he experienced some of his greatest success.

There is plenty of history between these clubs outside of the Portuguese manager with several high-stakes contests including last year’s FA Cup Final.

This fixture has skewed Chelsea’s way in the last five seasons with six wins, four draws and two losses for the London side in that time.

New manager Maurizio Sarri has been a breath of fresh air at Stamford Bridge and the squad has responded superbly to his instruction, they come into this game as favourites and should find a way to take care of business.

Back Chelsea to Win @ $1.70

SGM: Chelsea to Win, Eden Hazard Anytime Goalscorer, Over 1.5 Chelsea Goals

These sides have come a long way since their League One days from 2010-2011 and now they meet in the Premier League for the fourth straight season.

At the Vitality Stadium, the matches have been evenly split with the Cherries and Saints picking up one win each and drawing 1-1 last December.

Bournemouth have continued their impressive run to start the season, winning their last two games and are offering surprising value for this contest.

At home they have won three and drawn once, scoring ten goals and should be able to improve on that record here.

Back Bournemouth to Win @ $2.00

SGM: Bournemouth to Win to Nil, Joshua King First Goalscorer

It has been a rough start to the Premier League season for Cardiff with just two drawns from their eight matches and a poor goal difference keeping them anchored to the bottom of the table.

Perhaps the only saving grace is that during their five game losing streak, they have been beaten by Spurs, Man City, Chelsea and Arsenal in that time, a rather daunting run.

Fulham aren’t faring much better with a league high 21 goals conceded and five points from their first eight games but they can feel confident in the fact they haven’t lost against Cardiff in their last seven matches.

It’s hard to feel overly confident in either side here and a low scoring draw is certainly on the cards here.

Back the Draw @ $3.20

SGM: Draw, Under 2.5 Goals

The highest scoring side in the Premier League are coming off a scoreless draw in the last match but should be able to add to their tally when they host Burnley.

Burnley’s stout defence from last season has just started to show up in recent weeks with two goals conceded in their past three matches.

In that time, they have picked up their first two wins of the season however City represent a step up on their recent opponents.

In terms of the market for this game there really is not a lot of value on any Manchester City bets, even the Goalscorer markets don’t offer anything and it is better to look at the Same Game Multi instead.

NO BET

SGM: Both Teams to Score (No), Over 2.5 Manchester City Goals, Raheem Sterling Anytime Goalscorer

Brighton are holding their own so far this season, picking up five points from their past five games and will fancy their chances against a Newcastle side that has really failed to fire so far.

With the talent in that squad, Newcastle should be doing better than sitting in second last and yet to win a game this season.

Both sides have been involved in plenty of low scoring matches this season and with the lack of goals here, one might just be enough to win it.

Back Brighton to Win @ $3.20

SGM: Brighton to Win, Under 2.5 Goals

The other big derby of the weekend features one of London’s most heated rivalries.

Safe to say that Tottenham are a much stronger side than West Ham right now, however this is a fixture that causes the underdog to rise up and play above their level.

In each of the last five Premier League seasons, Tottenham have dropped points in at least one of these London derbies giving this match a real sense of unpredictability.

At some stage Tottenham’s travels will catch up to them as they continue to wait for their new stadium to be completed and this game as a real upset possibility.

Back West Ham/Draw Double Chance @ $1.87

SGM: Over 2.5 Goals, Harry Kane First Goalscorer

While this game might not move the needle on first inspection, this is a game that looks very intriguing when you consider the start both sides have had.

Watford came out of the blocks flying and have come back to earth with three losses and a draw from their last for games while Wolves are unbeaten in their last six.

During that streak they have done a great job picking up all three points against sides who they have been expected to beat and they should take advantage of a reeling opponent.

Back Wolverhampton to Win @ $1.80

SGM: Wolves to Win, Under 2.5 Wolves Goals, Both Teams to Score (No)

As if Huddersfield were not having a hard enough time scoring goals, they now face the tightest defence in the Premier League.

Liverpool have given up just three goals all season and Huddersfield have scored four.

If you are sensing a bit of a trend about how this game should unfold, you’re right, Liverpool should pick up their seventh win of the campaign while keeping their sixth clean sheet.

Back Liverpool to Win to Nil @ $1.95

SGM: Liverpool to Win to Nil, Roberto Firmino Anytime Goalscorer, Sadio Mane Anytime Goalscorer

Back to back wins for Everton before the international break gave their season a bit of momentum and they host a Palace side that lost back to back games.

They will be looking to extend a good run of recent form against Palace, who have conceded just nine goals all season but have only scored five.

What that says is that Everton will have to work hard to score, but outside of Wilfried Zaha, Palace’s attack has been somewhat limited.

Combine that with Everton playing at home and their recent form and they should be good enough to come away with three critical points here.

Back Everton to Win @ $1.83

SGM: Everton to Win, Over 2.5 Goals

It is hard to not be impressed with the way Arsenal have bounced back from their early season losses to go on a nine game winning streak.

They will look to extend that to double figures against a Leicester side they have experienced mixed fortunes against in the last few seasons.

Mixed in with Arsenal’s five wins are two draws and a loss late last season, and the Gunners come into this game as favourites.

One thing that has carried over from last season is Arsenal’s good form at home and they should be able to get past the Foxes here.

Back Arsenal to Win -1 Goal @ $2.30

SGM: Arsenal to Win, Under 0.5 Leicester Goals,

2017/2018

With EPL Week 9 set to begin in the early hours of Saturday morning with West Ham and Brighton facing off, there are plenty of tantalising clashes this week as teams are starting to establish their identities. Chelsea suffered the embarrassment of being massively upset by Crystal Palace and Arsenal will want to ensure that their clash with Everton does not lead to a major slide in form. All that and more coming up this weekend.

Brighton dropped two points against Everton last week and could have missed out on all three were it not for the late saves made by Mat Ryan.

West Ham are also coming off a 1-1 draw and enter this game without striker Andy Carroll who managed to pick up two yellow cards in 99 seconds in their clash with Burnley.

They still have their leading scorer Chicharito coming into the game with three goals from his eight games so far but not much support beyond that.

Brighton are not exactly lighting up the scoreboard either scoring just six goals so far so I’m going to play it a bit safe here and suggest going for a low scoring game.

Back Under 2.5 Goals @ $1.62

Losing back to back games is a rarity for Chelsea under Roman Abramovich’s ownership but that is the streak they are on at the moment.

Losing to previously goalless Crystal palace should provide the side plenty of motivation to get things back on track when they return to Stamford Bridge and face a Watford side fresh of a successful upset of their own.

Troy Deeney’s late winner over Arsenal has kept Watford’s excellent start to the season going.

Chelsea are still working out how to adapt to the absences of N’Golo Kante, Danny Drinkwater and Gary Cahill however Alvaro Morata is reportedly returning to the squad ahead of this clash.

That inclusion will add a fair bit of potency to their side going forward and they should be able to find the net here.

Back Chelsea to Score in Both Halves @ $2.00

Last week saw a return of the Big Game Jose Mourinho managerial style as they went to Liverpool, played for a point and executed the plan to perfection.

They will feel much more confident of their ability to go to Huddersfield and come away with a big win.

The home side got off to a great start in the league but haven’t won since round two and have picked up just two points in their last five games.

United aren’t great value straight up for the win but I like the value on offer with a handicap.

Back Man United -2 Goals @ $3.50

A late Chris Wood equaliser would have Burnley full of confidence until the film study of their next opponent began.

Man City are scoring for fun, most recently putting seven past Stoke in the Premier League then outduelling Napoli in the Champions League.

Last season City won both games 2-1 against Burnley but with the form they are in they would be expecting to win by a bigger margin than that.

The potential for rotation is a little bit of a cause for concern but the depth they have should still see them through.

Back City to Score 4+ Goals @ $2.10

If you picked Chelsea as the side that Palace would score their first goal and get their first win against at the start of the season you would have been called crazy, but it happened.

That 2-1 result snapped a seven game losing streak and removed the 0 from Palace’s points column.

Newcastle battled to a 2-2 draw against Southampton and have shown a real fighting quality so far.

Their only loss in the last five games came away to Brighton and they have accounted themselves well against similarly placed teams on the table.

With that in mind, take Newcastle to win here and bank on Palace’s efforts being an outlier rather than the new norm.

Back Newcastle to Win @ $2.00

Two sides that are not going through the ideal start to the Premier League season with just three wins between them.

Last season’s meetings produced a Bournemouth victory at Stoke and a 2-2 draw at the Vitality Stadium.

Bournemouth were the first side to lose to Tottenham at Wembley in the league this year and outside of their sole win have looked rather insipid overall.

Stoke are coming off a Man City drubbing and could be reeling after conceding seven.

This game has the makings of a dour draw but the potential of one side managing to steal a goal here is enough to call this one a stay away.

No Bet

Dissatisfied with their mediocre start to the Premier League, Leicester City have sacked their manager for the second time in 2017.

Having won just once this season back in August, the club have moved on in an attempt to shake things up.

Swansea are not doing much better but did manage to scrape a win this past weekend against Huddersfield.

There are two contrasting styles coming to head in this one as Leicester are scoring plenty but conceding more where Swansea are playing much lower scoring games.

This game appears to lean towards a lower scoring type of game with an assistant manager coming in and looking to shore things up in anticipation of a new boss.

Back the Draw @ $3.10

One of the most even fixtures in Premier League history with the sides winning five times each and four draws in their 14 matches thus far.

West Brom are one point better off this season but their stats are otherwise remarkably identical with seven goals scored and nine conceded in eight games with three clean sheets.

Sometimes the numbers just add up and this game has all the markings of a draw with neither side able to break the deadlock.

Back the Draw at $3.30

A struggling Arsenal side will not want to face a side managed by recent nemesis Ronald Koeman who has seemingly had the Gunners number.

In the thirteen meetings Wenger has only come out on top three times and one of those was the round 38 dead rubber last season at the Emirates.

The fact they have to travel will be of no comfort either with a record of three losses and a draw away from the Emirates.

Everton have not been great against big-name opposition this season, failing to defeat every other club in the traditional big six. Even then in terms of value it is well worth taking a punt on Everton to produce a resilient home stand and add to Arsenal’s misery.

Back Everton to Win @ $3.60

The “curse” is broken, the jokes are over and there are no more things to say about Tottenham failing to win a Premier League game at Wembley.

Liverpool came within a David De Gea foot of toppling Manchester United at Anfield and now face another big game against a Champions League opponent.

With both sides coming off continental commitments, the temptation may be to rest some players however the fact they have almost a full week in between games should mean both sides are playing at close to full strength.

Liverpool’s momentum is hard to ignore but Tottenham will put up more of a fight than Maribor did. It’s a week that looks to have quite a few draws in it and this will be another one.

Back the Draw @ $3.50

2016/2017

The blockbusters continue in the English Premier League this weekend and there will be plenty of interest when Chelsea and Manchester United do battle for the first time this season.

Manchester City and Southampton have been involved in a number of exciting contests in recent seasons and they are set for another intriguing fixture this weekend, while defending champions Leicester City will host Crystal Palace at King Power Stadium.

There are ten interesting matches spread out right across the weekend and you can find our thoughts for every single match below.

Bournemouth produced their best performance of the season to record a dominant victory over Hull City, but they play a much tougher assignment against Tottenham.

Bournemouth were on the receiving end of a couple of heavy defeats against Tottenham last season and it should come as no surprise that they will start this game as clear underdogs.

The Cherries have actually won three of their past eight games as home underdogs for a narrow profit and they have shown they are capable of stringing wins together.

Tottenham were far from impressive against West Bromwich Albion and they missed out on a golden opportunity to go to the top of the English Premier League.

These are the type of games in which Tottenham can’t really afford to drop points in and their record as away favourites suggests that they should get the job done handily – they have won eight of their past 13 games in the scenario for a clear profit.

Tottenham should be able to win this game comfortably and they are genuine value at their current price of $1.95.

Back Tottenham To Win @ $1.95

Arsenal are the equal shortest-priced favourites of the weekend and they are fancied to have no issues accounting for Middlesbrough.

Arsenal made it six wins on the trot with their exciting victory over Swansea City and they have flown under the radar somewhat to sit in second position.

The Gunners have won 13 of their past 18 games as home favourites for a clear profit, but whether you can get them as short as $1.25 is the big question.

Middlesbrough made a promising start to the EPL season, but they have taken just two points from their past six games and they suffered another disappointing loss against Watford last weekend.

They have now won just one of their past four games as away underdogs for a loss and it is tough to see them taking anything from this clash.

Arsenal should be able to get the job done comfortably, but there is no value at their current price and I am willing to stay out from a betting perspective.

No Bet

Burnley go into this game on the back of two straight losses to Arsenal and Southampton and they face another tough assignment against Everton this weekend.

Burnley will go into this game as heavy underdogs, but they have already won two of their four games as home underdogs this season for a hefty profit.

Everton played extremely well to take a point from their clash with Manchester City last weekend and they continue to be well organised at the back – they have not conceded more than one goal in a game this season.

They have won five of their past eight games as away favourites for a clear profit and I am confident that they can return to winning form this weekend.

There is still a bit of value at their current price of $1.67 and they are one of the safest bets of the weekend.

Back Everton To Win @ $1.67

Hull City have fallen in a big hole in the past month and they go into this clash on the back of a heavy defeat at the hands of Bournemouth.

There is no doubt that a lack of depth has taken its tole on Hull City and they will go into this clash with Stoke City as underdogs.

We only have a small sample size, but Hull City have won just one of their past four games as home underdogs.

Stoke City have bounced back from their extremely poor start to the season to take five points from their past three games and they are sure to have taken plenty of confidence from their first win of the season over Sunderland.

The Potters have only started two games in the past 12 months as away favourites, but they did lose both of them and they are a very tough side to trust as the punter’s elect.

It would not surprise to see Hull City bounce back somewhat this season and the $3.20 on offer for the draw is the clear value selection in this clash.

Back The Draw @ $3.20

Leicester City are on the quick back-up following their UEFA Champions League victory on Wednesday morning.

Leicester City were completely outplayed by Chelsea last weekend and they have now won just one of their past five games in the English Premier League, while they have been on the end of three heavy defeats.

They will still go into this clash with Crystal Palace as clear favourites and their record in this scenario over the past 12 months is a most impressive 10-4-0.

Crystal Palace had their winning run ended by West Ham last weekend, but it is fair to say that their recent form has been better than that of Leicester City.

They have taken something from their past 11 games as away underdogs and they were only narrowly beaten by Leicester City in both their meetings last season.

Crystal Palace are well over the odds at their current price and I am taking the gamble that they can end Leicester City’s unbeaten run at King Power Stadium.

Back Crystal Palace To Win @ $3.60

Swansea City have lost four games in a row, but they will still go into this clash with Watford as clear favourites.

There is no doubt that Swansea City improved against Arsenal last weekend, but it is incredible tough to trust a team that has won just one game so far this season.

Swansea City are 4-3-3 as home favourites over the past 12 months and they seem criminally under the odds in this fixture.

Watford returned to winning form with a victory over Middlesbrough and it is fair to say that they are one of the most underrated outfits in the entire English Premier League.

They have won six of their past 17 games as away underdogs for a clear profit and at their current price of $3.25 they are the best bet of the entire weekend.

Back Watford To Win @ $3.25

West Ham finally returned to winning form with their victory over Crystal Palace, but winning at the Olympic Stadium could prove to be a tougher assignment.

The Hammers have struggled both on and off the field so far this season and they are an incredibly tough team to trust from a betting perspective – they have won just four of their past 11 games as home favourites for a clear loss.

Sunderland are still looking for their first win in the English Premier League this season after they were extremely poor against Stoke City last weekend.

They have won just three of their past 17 games as away underdogs for a clear loss and David Moyes is a man under a great deal of pressure.

It is incredibly difficult to trust either of these teams from a betting perspective and I am more than happy to stay out of this clash.

No Bet

Liverpool are the other shortest-priced favourite of the weekend and they are expected to get the job done comfortably against West Bromwich Albion.

They had their winning run halted by Manchester United last weekend – in one of the most boring games of football that you are ever likely to see – but in the past month they have recorded a couple of big victories over inferior opposition.

In saying that, their record as favourites at Anfield is still not particularly impressive and they have not beaten West Brom since 2014.

West Bromwich Albion produced one of their best performances of the season to date to take a point from Tottenham and they have not lost a game for over a month.

They have only recorded three wins from their past 19 games as away underdogs, but they have been able to take a point from nine of these fixtures.

West Brom are the type of outfit that could frustrate Liverpool – we saw it happen twice last year – and the $5.50 available for the draw is well over the odds.

Back The Draw @ $5.50

Manchester City raced away to an early lead at the top of the English Premier League, but they have come back to the field after losing to Tottenham and drawing with Everton.

They will head into this clash on the back of a Champions League clash with Barcelona and there is reason to think that they could be a touch vulnerable in this clash.

Manchester City will still start this clash as clear favourites and they have won 11 of their past 18 games as home favourites for a loss.

Southampton have bounced back from their slow start to the season to win three of their past four games and they will take plenty of confidence from the fact that they were able to beat Manchester City last season.

The Saints have have taken at least a point in six of their past 11 games as away favourites and they are more than good enough to come away from this game with a draw,

Back The Draw @ $4.33

This will be an intriguing tactical contest between two of the more defensive managers in the English Premier League.

Chelsea produced their best performance of the season to date to comfortably account for Leicester City, but I expect that manager Antonio Conte will go into this clash with a far more defensive mindset.

Chelsea will start this clash as clear favourites and their record at home favourites is 6-8-4 – with the draw an extremely profitable betting play.

Manchester United showed no ambition whatsoever against Liverpool last weekend and I expect Jose Mourinho to produce a repeat against his old club.

The Red Devils have taken at least a point from four of their past five games and Mourinho will be desperate to ensure that he doesn’t suffer a defeat at Stamford Bridge.

Just about everything points to this game finishing as a low-scoring draw and the $3.20 currently available for a stalemate is outstanding value.

Back The Draw @ $3.20