1. Dewsbury Hall Returns to Familiar Territory
Leicester City fans will welcome Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall back as Chelsea visits the King Power Stadium. After shining in Leicester’s promotion campaign, the midfielder joined Chelsea for £30m but has struggled to establish himself in the Premier League. With Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca under pressure to rotate his squad, this could be Dewsbury-Hall’s opportunity to prove his worth in a sentimental return to his boyhood club.
2. O’Riley’s Influence at Brighton
Matt O’Riley, sidelined by injury early in his Brighton career, made an impactful return by scoring the winner against Manchester City. Now, the midfielder is poised to form a promising partnership with Carlos Baleba. With Brighton in contention for European football, O’Riley’s role in maintaining their momentum against Bournemouth could be crucial.
3. Can Forest Upset Arsenal?
Nottingham Forest, unbeaten away from home this season, travel to face an Arsenal side struggling for form. Forest’s ability to disrupt Liverpool’s flow at Anfield earlier this season showcased their tactical prowess. A similar approach to stifle Arsenal’s creativity might lead to another upset, potentially pushing Forest into the top four.
4. Villa’s Struggles and Emery’s Challenges
Aston Villa’s four-game losing streak has highlighted the fragility of Unai Emery’s high-risk style. As they host Crystal Palace, Villa’s attack, led by Ollie Watkins, must rediscover its sharpness. For Palace, returning stars like Eberechi Eze could provide a much-needed boost in their relegation battle.
5. Everton Seek Change Amid Turmoil
As Everton’s ownership saga nears a resolution, their on-pitch struggles persist. Sean Dyche’s side has failed to score in two consecutive games, raising questions about Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s form and the team’s lack of creativity. A home match against a travel-weary Brentford presents an opportunity for redemption.
6. Berge Steps Up for Fulham
Sander Berge has emerged as a key player for Fulham after João Palhinha’s departure. The Norwegian midfielder’s consistent performances have helped maintain Fulham’s position near the top of the table. Against Wolves, Berge’s partnership with Sasa Lukic will be pivotal as Fulham aims for another strong showing.
7. City’s Stumble Amid Guardiola’s Renewal
Manchester City’s four-game losing streak contrasts sharply with the optimism surrounding Pep Guardiola’s contract extension. Facing Tottenham, City must address defensive vulnerabilities while contending with the visitors’ counterattacking threat. A loss could deepen concerns over the champions’ form.
8. Southampton’s Struggles Against Liverpool
Bottom-placed Southampton faces a daunting challenge against league leaders Liverpool. Despite dominating possession in recent matches, Southampton’s predictable style has hampered their effectiveness. To stand a chance, they must adopt a more direct approach, leveraging the pace of their forwards.
9. Højlund’s Chance Under Amorim
Rasmus Højlund is set to lead Manchester United’s attack under new manager Rúben Amorim, known for developing strikers like Viktor Gyökeres. With just two goals in 12 appearances this season, Højlund needs consistency to cement his place. Amorim’s tactical acumen could unlock the Danish forward’s potential.
10. Lopetegui on the Brink
Julen Lopetegui’s tenure at West Ham hangs by a thread as his team faces an in-form Newcastle. The visitors’ struggles, compounded by managerial uncertainty, contrast with Newcastle’s resurgence and the buzz around possible stadium developments. For Lopetegui, avoiding another loss may be critical for his survival.
