19:45 - Arsenal v Newcastle
Premier League leaders Arsenal kick off 2023 with a home game against in-form Newcastle United on Tuesday. After Manchester City and Newcastle dropped points last time out, the Gunners’ 4-2 win at Brighton and Hove Albion extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table and puts them in a great position to kick on. The Magpies have suffered just one defeat this term, but Arsenal are the odds-on favourites to get the win in front of their own fans
Mikel Arteta’s men had a truly remarkable 2022. They missed out on qualification for the 2022-23 UEFA Champions League at the end of last term, but the Londoners have kicked off this season with 14 wins from 16. Newcastle have also started well, but we can see Arsenal securing a sixth straight league win in this one. As such we’ll be backing the home victory and both teams to score at decent odds of 13/5.
19:45 - Everton v Brighton
Everton and Brighton and Hove Albion square off in midweek Premier League action at Goodison Park. Frank Lampard alleviated some of the pressure after guiding the Toffees to an excellent 1-1 draw at the Etihad Stadium against Man City last time out. The point at City stopped a run of four straight league and cup defeats and certainly came as a relief to the ex-Chelsea man Lampard. Everton are now looking for their first victory since October, but do they have the firepower to get the job done?
Roberto De Zerbi has settled in at the Amex Stadium, and Brighton have won three of their last five Premier League games. They lost against leaders Arsenal last weekend, but the Seagulls certainly played their part in the six-goal thriller. This will be a tough match for both teams, so our money is going on the draw and under 2.5 goals at a price of 10/3.
20:00 - Manchester United v Bournemouth
In-form Manchester United welcome lowly Bournemouth to Old Trafford for a Premier League fixture on Tuesday. A fine run of results has lifted the Red Devils into the top four, and United will be eager to keep the momentum going with another three points. The Cherries find themselves just two points above the drop zone after six defeats from seven matches.
Man United have returned from the FIFA World Cup break with two wins and two clean sheets. After an easy 3-0 home success over Nottingham Forest, in-form Marcus Rashford came off the bench to fire United to a 1-0 victory at Wolverhampton Wanderers last Saturday. We fancy Erik ten Hag’s men to make it four league wins on the bounce and thus we’ll be taking a punt on the hosts to win both halves at odds of 13/8.
19:30 - Southampton v Nottingham Forest
On Wednesday night in the Premier League, Southampton and Nottingham Forest meet in a big basement battle at St Mary’s. The Saints prop up the table with a mere 12 points to their name, while Forest are two points above in 18th. With this one taking place at St Mary’s, the hosts are the favourites at evens and their fans will be billing this one a must win.
Southampton have been on a dreadful run of form of late, losing five Premier League games in a row since drawing with Arsenal. The Saints have won just one league game since August. Nottingham Forest are on their best run of the season, as the Reds have won two, drawn three and lost two of their last seven in the Premier League. They managed to hold Chelsea to a draw last time out and they can take something from this one too. We fancy improving Forest to snatch a point at St Mary’s (5/2).
19:45 - Leeds v West Ham
Leeds United and West Ham United go head-to-head at Elland Road in a huge Premier League matchup in midweek in what has to be viewed as something of a relegation six-pointer! Leeds have had a mixed bag of results lately, but they did hold in-form Newcastle United to pinch a draw at St James’ Park in the last one. Can the Yorkshire side follow that up with three points on home turf this Wednesday?
Leeds have won just two league matches since August, and West Ham have also struggled for wins this season. The Hammers are going great guns in Europe, but David Moyes’ men have picked up just four Premier League wins so far. The Irons find themselves languishing in 17th after five league defeats on the spin, with their opponents only two points better off. Our money is going on a Leeds win – back the home victory and both teams to score (15/4)
20:00 - Aston Villa v Wolves
Midlands duo Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers do battle at Villa Park in Premier League action this Wednesday. The Villans are looking to build on their stunning win over Tottenham Hotspur, while Wolves will want to bounce back from the Manchester United defeat. This all-Midlands affair could go either way and should certainly be a close battle.
Aston Villa have been in good form since Unai Emery took over, collecting nine points from a possible 12. Last time out, Villa won 2-0 at Tottenham. Julen Lopetegui suffered his first Wolves loss in the last one, but there have been encouraging signs under the new boss. We fancy Villa and Wolves to play out a score draw at Villa Park on Wednesday. Put some money on the draw and both teams to score at the decent price of 15/4.
20:00 - Crystal Palace v Tottenham
London sides Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur meet at Selhurst Park in the Premier League on Wednesday. The Eagles have been inconsistent of late, but Patrick Vieira’s men did seal a much-needed 2-0 win at Bournemouth in their last match. Tottenham are looking to bounce back from a poor 2-0 home reverse to Aston Villa.
Palace have been solid on home soil this season. Before the Boxing Day loss to Fulham, Vieira’s men had won three in a row at Selhurst. Tottenham have suffered three defeats in their last five league and cup games and could really do with maximum points here. We fancy Antonio Conte’s men to edge it, and there is good value in the big odds of 3/1 for Tottenham to win by one goal.
20:00 - Chelsea v Manchester City
Premier League heavyweights Chelsea and Manchester City lock horns in a mouth-watering league encounter at Stamford Bridge this Thursday. Both teams are hoping to bounce back from disappointing draws last time out but there is no doubt that City come into this one in better form in general. The Blues are the big underdogs on home soil, with the bookies offering just 8/13 for a City win.
Graham Potter is finding life at Chelsea tough going right now. The Londoners are on a poor run of form, winning only one of their last seven in the league. Man City are not flying though, and have taken just four points from their last three Premier League matches and have slipped seven points behind leaders Arsenal. Both are desperate for the points, but we fancy the Citizens to get the victory in west London. Take a punt on the away win -1 at 8/5.
20:00 - Manchester United v Everton
The Premier League steps aside this weekend as the FA Cup takes over. The opening tie of the round promises to be a cracker, as Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United entertain Frank Lampard’s Everton at Old Trafford. These two come into this clash in totally different states of mind and positivity. After a heavy home defeat last time out, the struggling Toffees could do with a break from league action. However, United are the red-hot favourites and we fancy them to win with room to spare.
The Red Devils are in fine form at present. Since a 3-1 Premier League loss at Aston Villa, the Manchester club have recorded six straight wins in all competitions. Marcus Rashford is on fire and the hosts head into this FA Cup match having won nine of their last 10 league and cup fixtures and have lost just one game since early October. Back Man United to be winning at half time and full time here (13/10).
12:30 - Gillingham v Leicester
Strugglers Gillingham entertain Premier League side Leicester City in the third round of the FA Cup this Saturday. After a dreadful few years, the Gills have slipped to the foot of the Football League. As for the Foxes, they are in 13th spot in the top tier at present. Despite Leicester’s relative top-flight woes, on paper at least this should be an easy win for Brendan Rodgers’ side.
Gillingham are in freefall, and the Kent club could suffer back-to-back relegations this term. They are bottom of EFL League Two with a mere 14 points to their name. However, they did manage to see off Fylde and Dagenham & Redbridge after replays in the cup. Unfortunately for the home team, Leicester should be far too strong at Priestfield Stadium. Back City to win both halves (11/8).
15:00 - Tottenham v Portsmouth
Antonio Conte’s Tottenham Hotspur welcome Simon Bassey’s Portsmouth to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the third round of the FA Cup this Saturday. Fresh from their convincing Premier League win over Crystal Palace, Spurs will be looking for another big victory at the weekend. Will Tottenham ease through, or can the EFL League One side cause an upset in the capital?
Tottenham have had a mixed bag of results of late, winning just two of the last six in all competitions. They will hope their win last time out will get them back on track though, and even with a changed side should be far too strong here. After a poor run of form, Danny Cowley was sacked earlier in the week, leaving Pompey in 12th spot in League One. Tottenham should get the job done with ease, and there is good value in 1/2 for the home side to be winning at half time and full time.
15:00 - Sheffield Wednesday v Newcastle
EFL League One side Sheffield Wednesday and Premier League high-flyers Newcastle United go head-to-head at Hillsborough this weekend in the FA Cup. The Magpies are going great guns in the league this term and will be hoping to go far in the cup. Wednesday are flying in League One, but Newcastle are the odds-on favourites to get the win in Sheffield.
Right now, Eddie Howe’s boys are sitting pretty in third place in the Premier League and look a good bet to secure a UEFA Champions League place. United are also through to the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup. Sheffield Wednesday are gunning for promotion to the EFL Championship and could be tricky opponents, but we are backing the in-form Magpies to prevail. You can get nice odds of 5/4 for Newcastle to win -1.
20:00 - Liverpool v Wolves
FA Cup holders Liverpool kick off the defence of their trophy with a an all-Premier League fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield on Saturday night. The Reds have been in patchy form of late, but Jurgen Klopp will be eyeing up a win in the cup. However, Wolves have improved under Julen Lopetegui and could be a tough nut to crack.
Liverpool were showing signs of improvement but last Monday’s bad 3-1 league loss at Brentford was certainly a setback. Lopetegui has made a solid start to life at Molineux, winning two, drawing one and losing one of four league and cup matches. Wolves will no doubt play their part at Anfield, but the Reds should prevail on home turf, even with a much-changed XI. Our money is going on the Liverpool win and both teams to score at 2/1.
12:30 - Bristol City v Swansea
Bristol City and Swansea City meet in an all-EFL Championship FA Cup tie at Ashton Gate on Sunday. On paper, there is a not a lot to split these two, and this should be an entertaining game in Bristol. Despite being away from home, the Swans are the slight favourites to get the win. Which of these Championship teams will be in the hat for the fourth-round draw?
When they clashed at Ashton Gate in the league earlier in the season, the pair played out a 1-1 draw. Olivier Ntcham netted late to rescue a point for the Welsh team after Tommy Conway’s opener. The Swans are unbeaten in three against the Robins, and we can see Swansea nicking a tight tie in Bristol. Put some money on the away win by one goal at 3/1.
14:00 - Cardiff v Leeds
Cardiff City and Leeds United meet in the third round of the FA Cup at the Cardiff City Stadium this Sunday. The Bluebirds are struggling in the EFL Championship, but can the Welsh club upset the Premier League team? Avoiding relegation is the aim for both of these clubs this season, with the pair both just two points above the drop zone in their respective leagues.
Cardiff are having another tough season in the second tier, as Mark Hudson’s boys are down in 20th with 28 points to their name. Leeds find themselves in 14th in the Premier League but the bottom half of the table is very tightly packed. Cardiff famously beat Leeds in the FA Cup two decades ago, but this class of United players should be too strong for the Bluebirds. You can get the very big price of 11/5 for the away team to win -1 in Wales.
16:30 - Manchester City v Chelsea
Premier League giants Manchester City and Chelsea meet again, this time in the third round of the FA Cup at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Just last Thursday, the pair squared off in the Premier League, with Man City running out 1-0 winners at Stamford Bridge. Will City see off the Blues for a third time this season?
Man City kept the pressure on leaders Arsenal with the midweek win at the Bridge. Pep Guardiola’s troops are in fine form, losing just one game since October. In contrast, Chelsea have hit a rough patch, as the Londoners have lost five of their last eight in all competitions. In addition, they have a number of injury concerns at present, so rotation options will be limited. We can see Man City piling more misery on Chelsea this weekend. Back the hosts to win to nil again at 11/8.
16:30 - Aston Villa v Stevenage
Premier League Aston Villa welcome EFL League Two outfit Stevenage to Villa Park for an FA Cup tie this Sunday. Villa will want to keep their momentum going under new boss Unai Emery, and the Villans are the massive favourites to get the win and book their place in the fourth round. The bookies are offering just 2/11 for a home victory but that is the only outcome we can forsee.
Emery has made a real impact at Villa Park, guiding the Midlands club to three wins from five Premier League matches. Along with ensuring safety, the Villans would love a good run in the FA Cup this season. Stevenage are flying in League Two, but we are backing the Premier League side to secure an easy home win. Take a punt on Villa to win both halves at 6/5.
20:00 - Oxford United v Arsenal
On Monday night, Mikel Arteta takes his in-form Arsenal troops to the Kassam Stadium to face EFL League One outfit Oxford United in the third round of the FA Cup. Winning the Premier League title is the ultimate ambition for the Gunners, but Arsenal will be looking for a solid run in the FA Cup this season. They have enjoyed so much success in this competition in recent years and even with a changed XI should be far too strong here.
Oxford have been pushing for promotion to the EFL Championship in recent times, but they are having a tough time in League One this term. In contrast, Arsenal are five points clear at the top of the Premier League table after a stunning season so far. The Londoners should do the business at the Kassam so back the away team to win -2 at the solid odds of 5/4.
19:45 - Manchester United v Charlton
In-form Manchester United are looking to book their place in the last four of the EFL Cup when they welcome Charlton Athletic to Old Trafford in a quarter-final this Tuesday. The Red Devils are in fine form under Erik ten Hag, and United are the clear favourites to see off the EFL League One outfit in the cup.
Last Friday’s 3-1 home success over Everton in the FA Cup was Man United’s seventh successive league and cup victory. Since losing a Premier League Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium in early October, Ten Hag’s troops have lost just one of their 17 matches across all competitions. We can see the hosts dominating this one from start to finish, and you can get a price of 10/11 for Man United to win both halves which looks a good option to us.
19:45 - Newcastle v Leicester
Newcastle United and Leicester City square off in an EFL Cup quarter-final at St James’ Park on Tuesday night. After suffering a shock defeat at Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup last weekend, the Magpies will be desperate to get back to winning ways here. Newcastle are the odds-on favourites to get the victory on home soil.
The defeat at Hillsborough last Saturday was only Newcastle’s second reverse of the campaign. They are enjoying a stunning season under Eddie Howe, sitting third in the Premier League with 35 points to their name. Leicester have had a poor season, but they did manage to edge past Gillingham in the FA Cup last weekend. Our money is on Newcastle in this one and we’ll be backing the home team to win with a -1 goal handicap at a price of 8/5.
19:45 - Nottingham Forest v Wolves
On Wednesday night, Nottingham Forest and Wolverhampton Wanderers meet in an EFL Cup quarter-final at the City Ground. Premier League survival is the ultimate goal for the pair, but both teams would love to get the win and book their place in the last four of the League Cup. Forest are the slight favourites on home turf but it’s not going to be a walkover for the hosts by any means.
It has been a tough season for Steve Cooper’s Reds, though there have been positive signs of late. Forest head into this cup clash having won four of their last seven games across all competitions. Wolves held Liverpool to a 2-2 draw at Anfield in the FA Cup last time out, and Wanderers have lost just once since Julen Lopetegui took over as manager. We fancy the away team to nick it, and there is good value in the odds of 10/3 for Wolves to win by one goal.
20:00 - Southampton v Manchester City
Pep Guardiola takes his Manchester City superstars to St Mary’s on Wednesday to face Nathan Jones’ struggling Southampton in the EFL Cup. The Saints currently prop up the Premier League table after a miserable season so far, while City are chasing down leaders Arsenal at the top. The away team are the overwhelming favourites in this one and few punters will be betting against them.
Southampton are rock bottom of the Premier League having won just three of their 18 league games so far. However, they have managed to secure EFL Cup victories over Cambridge United, Sheffield Wednesday and Lincoln City. Pep has won this trophy four times since arriving in England, and Man City are the favourites to win this year’s edition. The Premier League champions should make light work of the Saints and we’re backing Man City to win with a -2 goal handicap at odds of 7/1.
20:00 - Fulham v Chelsea
West London rivals Fulham and Chelsea lock horns in a tasty Premier League fixture at Craven Cottage this Thursday evening. The Cottagers are enjoying a fine season in the top tier and have collected 28 points to find themselves sitting in seventh position in the table. Fulham go into this derby three points and three places above the struggling Blues.
Marco Silva’s Fulham have been competitive on their Premier League return, winning eight of their 18 matches thus far. The pressure is well and truly on Graham Potter, meanwhile, as Chelsea have suffered six defeats from their last nine league and cup matches. Both teams would love all three points, but we fancy the rivals to cancel each other out at the Cottage. The draw and both teams to score looks good to us and is priced at odds of 10/3.
20:00 - Aston Villa v Leeds
Aston Villa and Leeds United meet at Villa Park in Friday night Premier League action. The Villans have been in good form under new boss Unai Emery, and the home side are the odds-on favourites to put a big three points on the board. However, Jesse Marsch’s United are an unpredictable outfit these days and could cause problems. Recent games have been fast, frenetic and full of goals, so this could be a really good contest.
Aston Villa have shown a big improvement under Emery, with the former Arsenal boss guiding the club to three wins from five Premier League matches. Leeds are winless in six league and cup games, though their last three have ended in draws, including two 2-2s most recently. We fancy Leeds to leave the Midlands with a handy point. Back the draw and both teams to score at the nice price of 10/3.
12:30 - Manchester United v Manchester City
Fierce rivals Manchester United and Manchester City lock horns in the Premier League this Saturday. With both teams in fine fettle, this Manchester derby at Old Trafford promises to be extra special. City have won the last three derby clashes, including a 6-3 victory at the Etihad Stadium in the October meeting. Can the champions see off their neighbours once again or will a resurgent United throw a real spanner in the works of the title aspirations of their rivals?
United have gone on to suffer just one defeat since the reverse at the Etihad. Erik ten Hag has certainly found his feet at Old Trafford, and the Red Devils will move to within just a point of City with a home win. The Citizens are looking to bounce back from a shock cup loss to Southampton, but we fancy the rivals to play out a draw. The draw and both teams to score is available at the very nice price of 7/2.
12:30 - Rotherham v Blackburn
The EFL Championship weekend gets up and running at the New York Stadium on Saturday afternoon when Rotherham United host Blackburn Rovers. Despite suffering 12 defeats and yet to draw, Rovers are riding high in third at present. In contrast, the Millers are looking over their shoulder in 21st.
Jon Dahl Tomasson has had an eventful time since taking over at Ewood Park. Only Burnley and Sheffield United – the runaway top two – have picked up more wins than Rovers. On the flip side, just the bottom two of Huddersfield Town and Wigan Athletic have lost more. Rotherham have had a tough campaign thus far, collecting just 27 points from 26 games. There is good value in 10/3 for the Blackburn win and under 2.5 goals.
15:00 - Brighton v Liverpool
Jurgen Klopp takes his Liverpool troops to the Amex Stadium to face Roberto De Zerbi’s Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League this weekend. The Reds have been inconsistent this season, winning just eight of their opening 17 league games. They have not been at their best and with key defender Virgil van Dijk out for a while yet, they face a real challenge to make the top four this term. In contrast, by their standards the Seagulls are going well and are just a point behind the Reds in the current table.
De Zerbi has done a solid job at the Amex since taking over from the popular Graham Potter. Albion have won six of their last nine across all competitions. Liverpool recently won four in a row in the Premier League, though they were beaten at Brentford in the last one. Even so, we are backing the Reds to bounce back with an away win this weekend (11/10).
17:30 - Brentford v Bournemouth
In-form Brentford are looking to add another three points to their Premier League tally when Bournemouth visit the Gtech Community Stadium this weekend. The Bees are enjoying another brilliant season in the top flight under Thomas Frank. As for the Cherries, they have suffered seven defeats from their last eight in the league and look serious relegation candidates.
Brentford are flying right now, unbeaten in six Premier League matches. Over the past few months, Frank’s men have beaten Manchester City and Liverpool, and drawn with Tottenham Hotspur. Bournemouth are finding Premier League tough on their return, and we fancy Brentford in this one. Take a punt on the home team to be winning at half time and full time at the solid odds of 8/5.
14:00 - Chelsea v Crystal Palace
London sides Chelsea and Crystal Palace go head-to-head at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League this Sunday. After another defeat in midweek, to west London rivals Fulham, no less, the pressure is growing on Blues boss Graham Potter. Chelsea find themselves down in tenth on just 25 points, with Palace three points behind in 12th. This really is a must-win game for Potter but we fancy they might well struggle.
Chelsea were beaten 2-1 by rivals Fulham on Thursday, Joao Felix seeing red on his debut for the club. Defeat at Craven Cottage was their fifth loss in seven Premier League games. The west London side are in crisis right now, and Patrick Vieira’s Eagles will be looking to take advantage. A draw would be a solid result for Palace, and there is good value in 9/2 for the draw and both teams to score.
14:00 - Newcastle v Fulham
Two form sides square off in the Premier League on Sunday, as Newcastle United face Fulham at St James’ Park. The Magpies are flying in third right now after collecting 35 points from 18 games. As for the Cottagers, they are just four points behind in sixth and having a better season than even their most ardent fans could have hoped for. Newcastle are the favourites, but Fulham will no doubt be formidable opponents.
Eddie Howe is doing a fine job at Newcastle. United are riding high in third and look a good bet to secure a UEFA Champions League spot. They are also through to the semi-finals of the EFL Cup. Marco Silva’s Fulham, last season’s EFL Championship winners, are also in fine fettle. However, we are backing Newcastle to get the three points on home soil (1/2) and maintain their fine defensive record too.
16:30 - Tottenham v Arsenal
North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal do battle at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this Sunday in what should be another cracking edition of this brilliant rivalry. The Gunners are the Premier League leaders after a stunning season so far. Can Mikel Arteta’s men see off their neighbours and secure another massive three points? Despite being away from home, Arsenal are the bookies’ favourites, a verdict with which we are inclined to agree.
Tottenham have slipped out of the top four after suffering four losses from their last eight. However, they did thump Crystal Palace 4-0 away from home in the last one. Arsenal have been beaten just once in the Premier League this season and are five points clear of Manchester City at the top. We like the look of 3/1 for the Arsenal win and both teams to score on Sunday.
19:45 - Wolves v Liverpool
Premier League clubs Wolverhampton Wanderers and Liverpool lock horns in an FA Cup replay at Molineux on Tuesday evening. Julen Lopetegui has made a fine start to life at Wolves, lifting the club out of the bottom three. Can Wanderers upset Jurgen Klopp’s Reds in this cup tie? In spite of their poor form, Liverpool are the favourites to get the win.
These two were involved in a four-goal thriller in the game at Anfield. Liverpool came from behind to lead 2-1, but Hee-Chan Hwang’s 66th-minute goal forced a replay. Lopetegui’s men picked up a vital victory over West Ham United in the league last weekend, while Liverpool lost 3-0 at Brighton and Hove Albion. We fancy Wolves here, and there is excellent value in the odds of 11/2 for the home win and both teams to score.
19:45 - Forest Green v Birmingham
Forest Green Rovers entertain Birmingham City at The New Lawn in midweek FA Cup action. Forest Green are rock bottom of the EFL League One table, struggling to adapt to life in the third tier after winning EFL League Two last term. As for Birmingham, they have slipped down to 18th in the EFL Championship after a poor run of results.
This is rearranged FA Cup third-round tie after the original match was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. With both teams struggling in their respective leagues, a win in the cup for one of these could revitalise their season. The Blues have lost four Championship games in a row, but the Midlands club should be too strong for struggling Forest Green. As such, we’ll be backing Birmingham to win with a -1 goal handicap at a price of 12/5.
20:00 - West Brom v Chesterfield
In-form EFL Championship side West Bromwich Albion welcome National League outfit Chesterfield to The Hawthorns for a third-round FA Cup replay in midweek. The Baggies scored at the death to rescue a 3-3 draw at the Technique Stadium in the first meeting. As expected, West Brom are the overwhelming favourites to get the win on home soil.
West Brom are in stunning form in the Championship. After a run of nine wins from 10 matches, Albion have gone from the foot of the table to the play-off places. Promotion is the main aim, but a run in the cup could aid their Premier League push. This could be an easy win for Carlos Corberan’s men so we’ll be backing West Brom to win both halves at the solid price of 12/5.
19:45 - Leeds v Cardiff
Rivals Leeds United and Cardiff City meet in an FA Cup replay at Elland Road on Wednesday evening. Leeds came from two goals down in South Wales to force a replay. Since then, the Bluebirds have slipped down to 21st in the table and have sacked their manager. United are the massive favourites to get the win and progress to round four but will the unpredictability of the cup rear its head in this one?
The pair played out a thriller in the Welsh capital. Cardiff were 2-0 up at the break thanks to Jayden Philogene-Bidace and Sheyi Ojo goals. However, Leeds rallied in the second half, and goals from Rodrigo and Sonny Perkins spared their blushes. The Whites should see off the Bluebirds on home soil, and you can get the decent odds of 10/11 for Leeds to win with a -1 goal handicap here.
20:00 - Crystal Palace v Manchester United
High flyers Manchester United make the trip to Selhurst Park this Wednesday to face Crystal Palace in the Premier League. Fresh from their impressive derby victory over rivals Manchester City, United will be looking for all three points in the capital. Erik ten Hag’s men are in red-hot form and will fancy their chances of seeing off Patrick Vieira’s unpredictable Eagles.
Palace have been in poor form of late and have lost four of their past five games in the Premier League. In contrast, Man United have picked up five consecutive league victories to fire themselves to within a point of second-placed Man City. Selhurst Park is never an easy place to visit, but in-form United should get three points before the weekend’s trip to the current table-toppers Arsenal. We like the look of the away win and both teams to score in this one at odds of 11/4.
20:00 - Manchester City v Tottenham
On Thursday night in the Premier League, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur square off at the Etihad Stadium. Both teams are looking to bounce back from weekend derby defeats. City let a lead slip to lose 2-1 at Old Trafford, while Spurs were second best, especially in the first half, in a 2-0 home reverse to Arsenal. Who will come out on top in this intriguing Premier League fixture at the Etihad?
Before losing to Man United, City were beaten by Southampton in the EFL Cup. Pep Guardiola’s men have struggled for consistency in recent weeks, winning just two of five league and cup fixtures. Erling Haaland has now drawn a blank in three games running and City are not scoring frequently enough on the road. Tottenham’s form in the Premier League has been poor of late, as Antonio Conte’s side have lost half of their last 12. Man City should make home advantage count, and we like the look of 5/6 for the City win and over 2.5 goals.
19:45 - Sheffield United v Hull
Sheffield United and Hull City square off at Bramall Lane in EFL Championship action on Friday night. The Blades are flying high in second place at present. United are 11 points clear of third and just five points behind leaders Burnley. Anything other than automatic promotion would be a huge disappointment from here. Hull have improved under new boss Liam Rosenior, moving away from the bottom three up to 16th.
Paul Heckingbottom has done a great job at Bramall Lane since taking over. After losing in the play-offs last term, Sheffield United are looking for automatic promotion this time around. The Blades are in stunning form, winning nine of their last 11 Championship games to cement their second-place standing. Hull are showing signs of life, but we fancy the hosts to claim a comfortable victory here. Back United to win -1 at very decent looking odds of 7/4.
20:00 - Burnley v West Brom
Two of the form sides clash in the EFL Championship on Friday night, as leaders Burnley entertain sixth-place West Bromwich Albion at Turf Moor. Vincent Kompany’s Clarets have been the Championship’s most consistent team this season, racking up 59 points from 27 games and, as with Sheffield United, anything other than instant promotion from here would be a poor outcome. As for the Baggies, they have gone from the bottom to the play-offs in no time.
Burnley have won seven league games in a row since losing to Sheffield United in November. Kompany’s troops have looked the real deal this season, and they go into Friday night’s fixture having won 11 of their last 12 Championship matches. West Brom are also bang in form, winning nine of 10 in the league and hammering Chesterfield 4-0 in an FA Cup replay in midweek. We are struggling to pick a winner, so back the draw and both teams to score (7/2).
12:30 - Liverpool v Chelsea
Heavyweights Liverpool and Chelsea do battle at Anfield in the Premier League’s early game on Saturday and it’s a match that will be hotly anticipated by fans and neutrals alike. Both sides have struggled this season, with the pair sitting in mid-table 19 points behind leaders Arsenal. Despite their troubles, the Reds have managed to remain strong at home and are the favourites here.
After back-to-back defeats at Brentford and Brighton and Hove Albion, Jurgen Klopp’s men will be desperate for maximum points on home soil this weekend. Graham Potter’s Blues beat Crystal Palace last time out but have lost five of their last eight Premier League games. This could be close, but we fancy Liverpool to edge it. There is good value in the odds of 3/1 for the hosts to win by one goal.
12:30 - Coventry v Norwich
Coventry City and Norwich City meet at the Coventry Building Society Arena in the EFL Championship on Saturday afternoon. The Sky Blues are winless in four games and have claimed just one league victory in their last seven matches. As for the Canaries, they ended a run of five league and cup games without a win with a thumping 4-0 victory at Preston North End last time out.
Coventry have had a tough season in the Championship and have won just nine of their 26 matches thus far. Norwich made a strong start, but Dean Smith was sacked after a poor run of results. However, David Wagner’s first league game in charge was the big win at Preston last week. We fancy Norwich to follow that up with another three points in this one at odds of 6/4.
15:00 - West Ham v Everton
West Ham United and Everton square off in a huge basement battle in the Premier League this weekend. The Irons are flying in Europe but have been poor in the league, while Frank Lampard is having a tough season at Goodison Park. These two are level on points with bottom club Southampton in the relegation zone and things are certainly not looking great for either side as things stand.
West Ham have won more games in the UEFA Europa Conference League than they have in the Premier League this term. The pressure is well and truly on David Moyes, as the Hammers have lost 12 of their 19 league matches. No team in the top tier has picked up fewer wins than the Toffees (three) this term and the off-field woes certainly don’t help things. All things considered, we are backing the two struggling sides to play out a score draw at the London Stadium which is available at the attractive odds of 4/1.
17:30 - Crystal Palace v Newcastle
Eddie Howe takes his in-form Newcastle United troops to Selhurst Park to play Crystal Palace this weekend. The Magpies are hoping to extend their sensational unbeaten run in the league, while the Eagles look to find some form after a tough run of results. The visitors will fancy their chances of leaving the capital with all three points.
Selhurst Park has been something of a fortress for Palace in recent times, but the Londoners have struggled on their own patch of late. Since a narrow 2-1 loss at Anfield back in August, Newcastle are undefeated in the Premier League. During that run, United have secured eight wins and have drawn five times. They have kept five league clean sheets in a row, and we like the look of the price of 2/1 for Howe’s boys to win to nil again.
12:00 - Sunderland v Middlesbrough
Sunderland and Middlesbrough meet in a Tees-Wear derby at the Stadium of Light in the EFL Championship on Sunday. The Black Cats are having a solid first season back in the second tier, sitting 10th on 38 points. Boro have been flying lately, going from the bottom three to the play-offs in no time. Who will come out on top in this derby fixture?
Tony Mowbray is doing a decent job at the Stadium of Light, with Sunderland sitting just three points away from the top six. Middlesbrough are one of the form sides in the second tier right now, picking up seven wins from their last eight to fire themselves up to fourth. Michael Carrick’s men will be looking for another three points this weekend, but we fancy the draw at the very nice price of 12/5.
14:00 - Leeds v Brentford
Leeds United and Brentford square off in an intriguing Premier League fixture at Elland Road this weekend. United will be looking to build on their big FA Cup win over Cardiff City and secure their first league success since early November. There are some real positives for the West Yorkshire side but their opponents are a really well-drilled side. The Bees will be hoping to extend their unbeaten run in the Premier League to eight and are dark horses for a European spot.
Leeds have slipped down the table after no wins in five. Since back-to-back victories over Liverpool and Bournemouth, Jesse Marsch’s side have taken just two points from a possible 15. In contrast, Brentford are flying right now, winning four and drawing three of seven Premier League matches. We fancy the Londoners to edge it at Elland Road and you can get 15/4 for Brentford to win by one goal in what could be another goalfest at Leeds’ raucous home ground.
14:00 - Manchester City v Wolves
Manchester City and Wolverhampton Wanderers meet at the Etihad Stadium this Sunday in the Premier League. After their stunning comeback victory over Tottenham Hotspur in midweek, Man City will be looking for another three points on home turf and they know they can afford few slips given Arsenal’s PL form. Wolves have improved under Julen Lopetegui, but the away side are the big underdogs here.
City were 2-0 down and booed off by their fans at half time against Spurs on Thursday. However, Pep Guardiola’s boys were sensational in the second period, scoring four without reply to secure a vital 4-2 victory. Wolves have picked up a couple of crucial wins themselves of late, but Man City should be too strong in this one. Take a punt on the hosts to win both halves at 5/4.
16:30 - Arsenal v Manchester United
Leaders Arsenal and in-form Manchester United square off this Sunday in a mouth-watering Premier League fixture at the Emirates Stadium. The Red Devils are the only side to have beaten the Gunners in the league this season, and Mikel Arteta’s men will be out for revenge in this one. Erik ten Hag’s United are flying, but Arsenal are the odds-on favourites.
After Manchester City’s win over Tottenham Hotspur in midweek, Arsenal’s lead at the top was cut to five points, though the Londoners now have a game in hand on City. Man United dropped points at Crystal Palace last time out, but the Manchester giants have been on a great run under Ten Hag. The visitors will no doubt play their part, but we fancy Arsenal to claim another three points. Check out the home win and both teams to score at 5/2.
20:00 - Fulham v Tottenham
London sides Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur meet in Premier League action at Craven Cottage on Monday night. The Cottagers are having a fine season back in the top tier after winning promotion from the EFL Championship, and the home team are just two points behind inconsistent Spurs. This all-London clash at the Cottage could go either way but on balance we favour the hosts.
Fulham are riding high in sixth, collecting an impressive 31 points from 20 games and surpassing all expectations. Tottenham have struggled to find form lately, losing three of their last four. Last time out, they squandered a 2-0 half-time lead at Manchester City to lose 4-2. The pressure is building on Antonio Conte, and we fancy Tottenham to lose again on Monday. Back Fulham to prevail on home turf at the top odds of 23/10, a cracking price considering form and the league table.
19:45 - Accrington v Boreham Wood
Accrington Stanley and Boreham Wood meet in the third round of the FA Cup at the Crown Ground this Tuesday. Accrington are having a tough time in EFL League One right now, languishing down in 20th spot after 25 games. As for Boreham Wood, they are in mid-table in the National League. The winners of this tie will face Premier League Leeds United in round four so there’s plenty to motivate the sides.
The non-league side held the League One outfit to a draw in the first game at Meadow Park. Stanley took an early lead, but a late Lee Ndlovu goal earned The Wood a replay. The club from Borehamwood could cause problems again, but Accrington should make home advantage count in this replay. You can get a price of 11/4 for the home team to win by one goal, which is the bet for us.
20:00 - Southampton v Newcastle
Nathan Jones’ Southampton and Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United meet in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final at St Mary’s on Tuesday evening. The winners of this two-legged tie will face either Nottingham Forest or Manchester United in this year’s EFL Cup final. In-form Newcastle are the favourites in this semi but the Saints will certainly want to give them a run for their money.
The Magpies are having a fine season in the Premier League and are sitting in the UEFA Champions League places at the halfway point. When United travelled to St Mary’s in the league back in November, Howe’s troops left with a big 4-1 victory. We fancy Newcastle to win at Southampton again in midweek. You can get the tempting odds of 3/1 for the away win and both teams to score, which looks good to us.
20:00 - Nottingham Forest v Manchester United
Steve Cooper’s Nottingham Forest and Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United lock horns in an EFL Cup semi-final this week. The first leg of this semi will be played at the City Ground, and the Reds will be desperate to take a positive result to Old Trafford. As you would expect, the Red Devils are the clear favourites to reach the final.
Nottingham Forest’s form has picked up in the Premier League, and Cooper’s boys have moved up to 13th in the table after recent results. Man United’s impressive unbeaten run was ended by table toppers Arsenal at the Emirates last weekend, but Ten Hag has certainly found his feet at Old Trafford. We are backing United to get a win at the City Ground on Wednesday. You can get odds of 7/4 for the visitors to win to nil and that ticks the right boxes for us.
20:00 - Manchester City v Arsenal
The top two in the Premier League square off in the FA Cup on Friday night, as Manchester City welcome Arsenal to the Etihad Stadium in fourth-round action. The two English heavyweights are slugging it out in the Premier League title race this term, with the Gunners five points clear at the top with a game in hand. However, City are fancied to win this cup tie on home soil, although we feel the value call may be to oppose them given just how good Arsenal look this term.
Man City have had the better of Arsenal in recent times. When they last met at the Etihad, the Citizens thumped the Gunners 5-0. However, the London side won the last FA Cup meeting, which was a semi-final back in 2020. We fancy Arsenal to nick this tie, and you can get big odds of 11/4 for the away team to win by one goal, with Arsenal/draw double chance a good option too.
12:30 - Walsall v Leicester
EFL League Two Walsall welcome Premier League Leicester City to the Bescot Stadium in FA Cup action this Saturday. The pressure is on Brendan Rodgers, and his team are having a difficult season so far. The Foxes cannot afford to be on the wrong end of a cup upset this weekend. As expected, Leicester are the overwhelming favourites to get the win in the West Midlands.
Leicester have struggled in the Premier League all season, though they did end a four-game losing streak with a solid 2-2 home draw with Brighton & Hove Albion last time out. City won 1-0 at Gillingham in the previous round, while Walsall have beaten Wycombe Wanderers, Carlisle United and Stockport County. Leicester should get the job done at the Bescot, and there is good value in 20/21 for the away team to win -1.
18:00 - Preston v Tottenham
Antonio Conte takes his Tottenham Hotspur troops to Deepdale this weekend to face Preston North End in the fourth round of the FA Cup. Spurs are hunting down a UEFA Champions League place in the Premier League, while the Lilywhites are in mid-table in the EFL Championship. Can the home team cause an upset? We think it unlikely but at the same time, the hosts might not have this one all their own way.
Preston have been inconsistent of late, winning three and losing four of their last seven league and cup matches. After one win in five in the Premier League, Tottenham picked up a much-needed 1-0 victory at Fulham last Monday. Preston could be tricky opponents, but we fancy Conte’s men to nick it at Deepdale. Back Tottenham to win by one goal at the top price of 3/1.
20:00 - Manchester United v Reading
Manchester United take on Reading in the fourth round of the FA Cup this weekend. The in-form Red Devils are the massive favourites to get the win and book their place in round five and it is very hard to make any sort of case for an upset here. These two have met at Old Trafford in the FA Cup twice in recent years, with United winning both matches without conceding and we expect more of the same again.
Man United recently went on a 10-game unbeaten run across all competitions, winning nine in a row to boot. However, they were beaten 3-2 at rivals Arsenal in the Premier League last time out. United are looking to get back to winning ways right away, and the hosts should be too strong for the EFL Championship side. Take a punt on Man United to win to nil at odds of 4/5 that we feel are striking value.
13:30 - Brighton v Liverpool
Premier League sides Brighton & Hove Albion and Liverpool square off in the fourth round of the FA Cup at the Amex Stadium this Sunday. The Seagulls beat the Reds 3-0 in a league game at the Amex earlier in the month, and Roberto De Zerbi’s men will fancy their chances of getting the better of Jurgen Klopp’s side again. That was a real hammering and the scoreline was not at all flattering to the hosts in that one. This promises to be an entertaining cup tie but we fancy the Seagulls to come out on top once more.
Brighton are enjoying a fine season in the Premier League. In fact, they head into this cup game sitting two points above Liverpool in the current Premier League standings. Albion have scored six goals against the Reds this term, and we are backing De Zerbi’s in-form team to edge past Liverpool in the cup. Have a punt on the home win and both teams to score at the very tidy looking price of 7/2.
14:00 - Stoke v Stevenage
Stoke City and Stevenage lock horns at the bet365 Stadium in the fourth round of the FA Cup this weekend. The away team are flying in EFL League Two right now, sitting second behind Leyton Orient. After beating Premier League Aston Villa at Villa Park in the last round, can Stevenage pull off another cup upset at the weekend?
Stoke are having a tough time in the EFL Championship. They have spent most of the season in the bottom regions of the table, winning just nine of 28. However, the Potters did secure a big 4-0 Championship victory over Reading in the last one though, which will give them a real boost ahead of this clash. Stevenage will play their part, but Stoke should prevail on home soil. The home team are priced at 3/5 and that looks decent enough.
16:30 - Wrexham v Sheffield United
National League side Wrexham entertain EFL Championship high flyers Sheffield United at the Racecourse Ground in the FA Cup on Sunday. The Welsh team stunned Coventry City in the previous round, and Phil Parkinson’s men are looking to topple another Championship club in the cup. However, the Blades are the odds-on favourites.
Sheffield United would love a run in the cup, but promotion back to the Premier League is the ultimate ambition for the South Yorkshire outfit. Wrexham are also gunning for promotion this season, and the Red Dragons are currently top of the table after 20 wins from 27 games. Sheffield United’s qualities should give them the edge in North Wales, and we fancy the Blades to be winning at half time and full time (15/8).
19:45 - Derby v West Ham
EFL League One Derby County take on Premier League West Ham United in the fourth round of the FA Cup. With Monday night’s game taking place at Pride Park, the Rams will fancy their chances. However, the Hammers head to the East Midlands as the bookies’ favourites to get the win and book their spot in the fifth round and we agree with that assessment.
Derby have been on an excellent run under Paul Warne, winning six league and cup matches on the spin. In the league they are in with a shot at promotion, whilst in the FA Cup, County have beaten Torquay United, Newport County and Barnsley so far. In their round-three tie, West Ham won 1-0 at Brentford. Derby could be tricky opponents, but we are backing the Irons to win and both teams to score here at the nice price of 11/4.
19:45 - Luton v Cardiff
In the EFL Championship on Tuesday, Luton Town and Cardiff City lock horns at Kenilworth Road. The Hatters are looking for a top-six place this term, while the Bluebirds are in a relegation scrap. New Cardiff boss Sabri Lamouchi will want to get off to a good start, though Luton are the bookies’ favourites at a price of 19/20.
Luton are in seventh place in the second-tier table right now, and three points on home soil this Tuesday would take them into the play-off positions. Cardiff are languishing in 21st position, meanwhile, and are only three points above the drop zone. Luton have lost just once at home since early September, and we are backing Town to edge this one. Although a couple of options appeal, we’ll be plumping for the hosts to win by a one-goal margin at odds of 13/5.
20:00 - Newcastle v Southampton
Newcastle United and Southampton meet in the second leg of their EFL Cup semi-final on Tuesday evening. After a hard-fought 1-0 victory at St Mary’s, the Magpies will fancy their chances of getting the job done at St James’ Park in midweek. Eddie Howe’s side have suffered just two defeats in 26 league and cup games this season and they’ll want to take that good form a step further here.
It was a tight and tense first leg in Southampton last week, with Joelinton’s goal in the 73rd minute giving United a 1-0 win. Newcastle are unbeaten in five games against the Saints, winning four and drawing one. We are backing Howe’s men to get the victory on home soil on Tuesday and we’ll be taking a punt on Newcastle to win to nil again at the top odds of 6/5.
20:00 - Manchester United v Nottingham Forest
Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United welcome Steve Cooper’s Nottingham Forest to Old Trafford for the second leg of their EFL Cup semi-final. The Red Devils have one foot in the final after a convincing win at the City Ground last week. United will be looking for their third victory over Forest of the season but can the underdogs restore some pride in this one?
Man United were too strong for Forest in the first leg. Goals from Marcus Rashford, Wout Weghorst and Bruno Fernandes gave the Manchester giants an easy 3-0 away win. United have beaten Forest 3-0 twice this season, and we are backing Ten Hag’s troops to keep another clean sheet in this one. You can get odds of 5/4 for the hosts to win to nil once again.