Written by Damian Kayat for Hollywoodbets.
Brace yourself for an exhilarating week in the Barclays Premier League as the action heats up with two intense matches lined up in the week, following the thrilling 3rd round of the F.A. Cup. January is the month where football managers must cleverly juggle their squad’s dynamics, weighing up league ambitions against cup dreams – a true test of skill and strategy.
The standout fixture features table-toppers Arsenal taking on the unpredictable Liverpool FC. Beyond this marquee clash, Leicester City travels to White Hart Lane for a revanche of their F.A. Cup clash, while West Ham visits Bournemouth in a game full of potential surprises. Aston Villa faces a pivotal moment this season, as their recent 1-1 draw with Wycombe has fans and critics alike questioning their resolve — a must-win against Crystal Palace awaits, despite the daunting challenge posed by the visitors’ excellent away form.
12th January
Newcastle United 37/10
Draw 26/10
Manchester United 15/20
Newcastle’s challenging season worsened with their recent cup exit to Watford. Even their earlier wins felt like treading water. Manchester United narrowly edged past a spirited Sheffield United, with Wayne Rooney’s late penalty salvaging the result. Bastian Schweinsteiger’s injury likely sidelines him, adding a further wrinkle.
Verdict: Total goals under 2.5 at 7/10 – Expect a tight encounter, possibly a 1-1 draw or a 1-0 win either way, but not three goals.
Bournemouth 21/20
Draw 47/20
West Ham United 26/10
Eddie Howe is active in the transfer market, close to securing Benik Afobe from Wolves. Bournemouth impressed in their visit to Leicester, showing great composure and teamwork. West Ham, with the creative duo Lanzini and Payet, promise an attacking challenge.
Verdict: West Ham to win at 21/20 – Anticipate a lively game with goals, as West Ham’s robust away form continues.
Aston Villa 19/10
Draw 43/20
Crystal Palace 29/20
Villa’s woes mount amid pressure on manager Remi Garde, who’s yet to claim a win. Jack Grealish’s tonsillitis sidelines him, weakening their midfield. Palace’s attack remains potent despite Sakho’s absence, with Bolasie and Puncheon key threats. Pardew’s focus is a striker addition.
Verdict: Total goals under 2.5 at 6/10 – With Villa’s scoring struggles, expect a cautious, closely-fought match.
13th January
Stoke City 19/20
Draw 23/10
Norwich City 3/1
Stoke’s inconsistency continues; Mark Hughes’ squad plays better against stronger teams but struggles otherwise. New signings Arnautovic and Shaqiri add spark, but defensive midfield remains a concern. Norwich’s recent strong performances, propelled by Tetty, are vital in their survival fight.
Verdict: Both teams to score – no – at 8/10 – Expect a tense battle possibly decided by a slim 1-0 margin either side.
Southampton 9/10
Draw 47/20
Watford 31/10
Watford had a tough City game but showed fighting spirit with Ighalo leading upfront. Southampton’s slide continues; manager Ronald Koeman is seeking reinforcements amid rumours of Mane and Wanyama exiting St Mary’s.
Verdict: Double chance – Watford to win or draw at 8/10 – Southampton’s current confidence levels suggest Watford won’t lose this one.
Manchester City 9/20
Draw 36/10
Everton 47/10
Manchester City welcomes Everton in a promising clash. City is formidable at the Etihad, showing their top European class. Everton battles to secure Lukaku’s future amidst transfer talks. Defensively, they might be stretched against City’s midfield maestros De Bruyne and Toure.
Verdict: City at 9/20 – Expect the Saudi-backed powerhouse to flex their muscle and clinch a solid win.
Chelsea 4/10
Draw 7/2
West Brom Albion 7/1
Guus Hiddink has revived Chelsea’s spirit, with Diego Costa refocusing on football. West Brom remains tough, even when short-handed, with Pulis’s motivational magic on show. Chelsea could prove too strong for the visitors.
Verdict: Chelsea to win at 4/10 – Costa’s renewed form and the absence of Hazard have energised the squad.
Swansea City 7/10
Draw 5/2
Sunderland 4/1
Swansea focuses on Premier League survival after F.A. Cup elimination. The Gomis-Shelvey partnership needs rekindling. Sunderland, fresh off a morale-boosting win, relies on Van Aanholt and Jones to exploit the flanks.
Verdict: Sunderland to win at 4/1 – Their direct style should outmatch the Swans in this survival clash.
Tottenham Hotspur 7/10
Draw 53/20
Leicester City 37/10
Despite weakened squads in the cup, Spurs have impressed this season with balanced defence and attack. Harry Kane spearheads their top-four push. Leicester, potentially missing Jamie Vardy due to injury, may struggle to find the net.
Verdict: Spurs to win at 7/10 – This match might mark the end of Leicester’s title hopes, but a top-four push remains on.
Liverpool 19/10
Draw 23/10
Arsenal 27/20
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