Premier League Matchweek 9: Predictions, Betting tips & Analysis #EPL

We're back at the prediction table this weekend after the dreaded international break. Tricky ties everywhere but we owe it a duty to reel out our take on the coming games. Here we go.

Saturday

Tottenham vs Liverpool
White Hart Lane
12:45

It is the baptism of fire for the normal special one Jurgen Klopp as he takes his bow in north London on Saturday. Injuries to first team players and ultimately an average set of fit players underline the unenviable inheritance of the German tactician. Tottenham are on the rise, the only thing they have to be wary of is the new manager syndrome. This will be fun.

Verdict: Tottenham to win or draw

Chelsea vs Aston Villa

Stamford Bridge

3:00pm

Chelsea have gone from being feared to being preferred as an opposition. The only player in Mourinho's squad that seems to be against the tide is Willian. Chelsea must win here if they want to bounce back before it's too late to redeem. Aston Villa can dream, though history hardly favours them against the champions and their form isn't any better.

Verdict: Chelsea to win

Crystal Palace vs Westham
Selhurst Park
3:00pm

One of those fixtures that could go either ways. Westham are dangerous away from home especially against better oppositions while the composure of Crystal Palace these days with Yohan Cabaye pulling strings in the middle can not be over looked. Expect a fast paced encounter with lots of bookings.

Verdict: Both teams to score
Everton vs Manchester United
Goodison Park
3:00pm

Manchester United endured a torrid time at the Emirates a fortnight ago and must start early at Goodison Park to avoid a repeat of such melt down. Everton are enjoying a rich vein of form, they are never an easy bunch for anyone, this isn't a very good time for Van Gaal and Co to face Martinez.

Verdict: Everton to pick a point at least.

Manchester City vs Bournemouth
Etihad Stadium
3:00pm

Manchester City benefited from their neighbor's humiliation at the Emirates as their second half romp against Newcastle sent them to the top of the log and rooted the magpies to the foot. Bournemouth are struggling and you'll hardly expect them to turn out something different against an injury hit City side. Eddie Howe just signed a new contract at Bournemouth but that won't heal his injured stars.

Verdict: City to win convincingly

Southampton vs Leicester City
St. Mary's Stadium
3:00pm

Two high scoring sides, Southampton shook off the early season drought and even went to Stamford Bridge to pick all three points. Leicester bounced back from the loss to Arsenal with a routine win last weekend. Leicester will certainly not be mentioned in the relegation books this term at this rate and they can even dream further with sheer consistency.

Verdict: Both teams to score

Westbrom vs Sunderland
Hawthorns
3:00pm

The last of the 3:00pm fixtures, the baggies host Sam Alardyce's men. New manager, fresh air and renewed hopes. Westbrom need points, so does Sunderland who in fact have not one this season. It is a relegation six pointer way too early in the season but if there's any defining factor in Sunderland's season it has to be this weekend.

Verdict: Westbrom to win

Watford vs Arsenal
Vicarage Road
5:30pm

The international break came at a wrong time for Arsenal, they were on a roll and wouldn't mind momentum. Watford are blowing hot and cold but they can sting anyone. Arsene Wenger would wish Alexis Sanchez returns fit and firing. It dates back to the eighties if you need the last time Watford beat Arsenal at the Vicarage. The drought looks set to continue.
Verdict: Arsenal to win

Sunday

Newcastle vs Norwich
St. James's Park
4:00pm

The only fixture on Sunday is at struggling Newcastle as they host Norwich City. How long more defeats can they take at St. James's before they boot Steve McLauren out? Another slip up to Norwich and Newcastle would be doomed. Norwich need points on the road to maintain their survival hopes and St. James's is a good place to dream.

Verdict: Draw
 

Monday

Swansea vs Stoke
Liberty Stadium
8:00pm

Monday night football sees Stoke City travel to Wales to negotiate off form Swansea for three crucial points. The rampaging start to life this term by Swansea has faded as they stutter week in week out while Stoke really aren't better. Either side needs the result as surrounding teams gather points and push them further below. 

Verdict: Draw

Written by @Komptrolla