By: Max Paganini
Southampton @ Arsenal
Arsenal: +120
Southampton: +215
Draw: +240
Over/Under: 2.5
With Arteta on the hot seat, an uncharacteristically poor Arsenal squad looks to end Southampton's impressive run.
Match Preview
This season, Arsenal has been down right poor. While Arteta has received the majority of the blame, many of the Gunner’s stars are simply underperforming. Pierre - Emerick Aubameyang has netted just two goals in the first twelve matches. With a -5 goal differential in the Premier League something must change if Arsenal hopes to climb out of the bottom half of the table.
Southampton and striker, Theo Wolcott, are currently firing in all cylinders. They have managed to secure at least a point in eight of their last nine matches. The Saints have climbed to within two points of the top of the standings. Although it is early in the season, Southampton has already impressed considering their 16th place finish last year.
Prediction
A confident Southampton squad is on the rise and have shown no signs of slowing down. Their bolstering attack led by Wolcott will surely earn a point for the Saints.
Pick: Southampton spread +.5
Newcastle United @ Leeds United
Newcastle: +345
Leeds: -145
Draw: +295
Over/Under: 2.5
After a hot start, Leeds United have started to come back down to Earth in their recent games. They will look to rebound against a mediocre Newcastle side.
Match Preview
Leeds suffered a crushing defeat this past weekend against West Ham. Other than an early trip to the penalty spot, Bamford and Harrison created few chances in the attacking third. An underwhelming attack complimented by a sub par backline should work in Newcastle’s favor in Wednesday's fixture.
Newcastle’s 2020 campaign has been filled with ups and downs. The Magpies have followed almost every win or draw with a loss the following week, killing any momentum created. However, with wins in two of their most recent games, I believe the odds are beginning to swing in their favor.
Prediction
I believe that Leeds and Newcastle only have enough talent to compete in the middle of the table at best. In this battle of mediocrity, I predict both teams will earn a point at the end of matchday 13.
Pick: Draw
Everton @ Leicester City
Everton: +235
Leicester: +110
Draw: +245
Over/Under: 2.5
After a shocking win against Chelsea, Everton will enter King Power Stadium seeking another upset. However, a potent Leicester City attack has other plans.
Match Preview
Everton’s recent win has provided a much needed boost for an up and coming squad. The England International, Jordan Pickford, left the Chelsea attack empty handed after securing a 1-0 win for his team, but do not be fooled by the Blues recent good fortune. Prior to this weekend, Everton has not managed to defeat any Premier League team seeded higher than eighth place.
Jamie Vardy and Co enter this match scoring five goals in the past two games. Their attack seems to be running on all cylinders; A daunting sight for a vulnerable Everton back line. As Leicerster eyes the top of the table, they will surely be on the hunt for the full 90 minutes.
Prediction
I really like Leicester City in this match. Vegas has drastically underestimated their ability with the +110 odds. I predict a win at home for Leicester.
Pick: Leicester Moneyline and Over 2.5
Tottenham @ Liverpool
Tottenham: +335
Liverpool: -135
Draw: +270
Over/Under: 2.5
Jose Mourhino and Jurgen Klopp face off in a battle for the top of the table on Wednesday. After both sides qualified for the knockout stages in their respective European Tournaments, we can expect to see the Spurs and Liverpool at full force.
Match Preview
Liverpool's unbeaten streak at home will be threatened against a dangerous Spurs counter. The speed of Harry Kane and Son Heung-Min will keep the Reds backline busy especially without injured center back, Virgil Van Dyke. The likes of Mo Salah must provide an offensive outlet to relieve Liverpool’s depleted back four.
The Spurs currently look down on the rest of the Premier League from the top of the table. Tottenham has relied on their deadly counter-attack to win games in all competitions. I worry their lack of possession could hinder their chances of adding a tally to the win column at Anfield.
Prediction
I like Tottenham to secure at least a point from the injury riddled Liverpool side if they can jump to an early lead.
Pick: Tottenham +.5
Crystal Palace @ West Ham United
Crystal Palace: +250
West Ham United: +110
Draw: +230
Over/Under: 2.5
West Ham welcomes Crystal Palace in a London derby match on Wednesday. With both teams coming off positive results, we can expect an exciting game at London Stadium.
Match Preview
With a win, West Ham have the opportunity to move into the top four of the Premier League. After a successful performance against Aston Villa, they expect nothing less. In order to capture three points, West Ham will have to continue to capitalise on their set piece opportunities with the head of Angelo Ogbonna.
Crystal Palace are unpredictable to say the least. They seem to be on a hot streak at the moment with a 5-1 win against West Brom and a tie against league leaders, Tottenham.
Prediction
I am backing West Ham this week to win outright against Crystal Palace in a low scoring affair. West Ham’s aerial threats will be too much for the Eagles.
Pick: West Ham Money Line and Under 2.5