There is a packed Premier League programme today, but the undoubted highlight is the clash between Chelsea and Liverpool.
Both teams disappointed midweek in the Champions League and thus will be keen to claim three points today. The Reds have won their opening five league games but don’t look as solid defensively as last season. That said, Chelsea have had their defensive issues as well, and they have yet to keep a clean sheet.
The two teams met earlier this season in the Super Cup, which Liverpool won on penalties, and they will be favoured to win again today. Chelsea have won only one of the last nine league meetings between these two.
We found it interesting the acclaim Roberto Firmino received after his performance against Newcastle last weekend. The Brazilian star has been the glue holding the Liverpool front three together for some time. We’ll take a punt the commentators seek to reward him after today’s clash.
As an aside, Jorginho has been booked three times in his last five games. He will be in the middle as the Liverpool attackers break and we’ll take a punt that he is booked again.
The early televised game sees West Ham host Manchester United. This fixture used to be virtually a Man United benefit – they have scored more goals in the Premier League against West Ham (94) than any other team.
However, West Ham have now won two of their last four home games against the Red Devils, and will feel confident having lost only one of their last nine league matches.
Manchester United played in the Europa League on Thursday, scraping a win over Kazak side Astana, and could be feeling tiredness today. With this in mind, we’ll side with West Ham striker Sebastian Haller to add to his three Premier League goals already this season with the first today.
Recommendations:
West Ham/Man United: Haller to score first, 1 pt, at 7/1, Paddy Power
Chelsea/Liverpool: Firmino to be man of the match, 1 pt, at 7/1, William Hill; Jorginho to be booked, 1 pt, at 13/5, Betway
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