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- Will City Make Possession Count?
A clear contrast in styles will be visible in a game that could have major ramifications for the Champions League qualification hopes of both Nottingham Forest and Manchester City. No team in the league has averaged less possession than Forest’s 40.1% this season, while City dominates with 60.4%. Despite the statistical gap, Forest has shown resilience, sitting above City in the table after 27 games. Their home record is strong, with Arsenal and Liverpool among those who have struggled at the City Ground. This fixture presents a stern challenge for the reigning champions. - Brighton’s Right-Back Conundrum
With Tariq Lamptey suspended after his red card against Newcastle in the FA Cup, Brighton must decide on his replacement at right-back for their match against Fulham. Joël Veltman and Jack Hinshelwood are the primary options, with Hinshelwood offering a more attacking presence. Veltman, who recently had a one-year extension triggered in his contract, has been linked with a return to Ajax and remains open about his future. Brighton will need stability in defense to counter Fulham’s attacking threat. - Nketiah Primed for Ipswich Test
Eddie Nketiah has impressed in limited minutes for Crystal Palace and could be in line for a rare start with Jean-Philippe Mateta potentially sidelined. His performances against Millwall in the FA Cup and Aston Villa in the league have demonstrated his quality, and Palace will be looking for a third consecutive home victory. Ipswich’s visit offers an opportunity for Nketiah to make his mark and provide a much-needed attacking boost. - Endo and Elliott Have Earned a Start
With a crucial Champions League tie and the Carabao Cup final on the horizon, Liverpool’s fixture against Southampton presents a chance to rotate the squad. Wataru Endo and Harvey Elliott made a significant impact off the bench against PSG, while key players like Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai could benefit from rest. Southampton’s struggles this season suggest this could be the right moment to introduce fresh legs into the starting lineup. - Brentford and Villa Evenly Matched
Brentford and Aston Villa, sitting 10th and 11th in the table, highlight the increasing competitiveness of the Premier League’s mid-table sides. Villa’s recent European success and Brentford’s strong home form set up an intriguing encounter. Both teams excel on the counterattack and in set pieces, making those areas crucial in determining the outcome. With key additions like Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio, Villa has more attacking options than in previous meetings. - Cunha’s Ban Could Bite Wolves
Matheus Cunha’s suspension could significantly impact Wolves’ season. His absence leaves a gap in attack, and manager Vítor Pereira must find a solution. Options include Gonçalo Guedes, Rodrigo Gomes, Hwang Hee-chan, and Carlos Forbs, while Tommy Doyle could be pushed further forward. With crucial fixtures ahead, Wolves must find a way to maintain their five-point gap from the relegation zone. - Leicester Ponder Another Change
Leicester’s poor form under Ruud van Nistelrooy has put the manager under pressure ahead of their match against Chelsea. Having lost five consecutive games, Leicester must find a way to exploit Chelsea’s potential fatigue after their Europa Conference League fixture. Another defeat could force the club to consider another managerial change. - Cherries May Avoid Solanke Reunion
Dominic Solanke’s move to Tottenham has not gone as planned, with Spurs struggling in 13th while Bournemouth push for a European place. The striker’s recent injury may keep him out against his former club. Bournemouth, meanwhile, has adapted well to his departure, with Justin Kluivert, Dango Ouattara, and Antoine Semenyo stepping up in attack. - United Have Lost Their Fear Factor
Manchester United faces Arsenal in a fixture that once carried high stakes. However, United’s struggles this season have diminished their aura, and Arsenal will arrive at Old Trafford full of confidence. Defensive issues, particularly with set-piece marking, remain a concern for United, and Arsenal will look to exploit those weaknesses. - Newcastle Exposed at Crucial Stage
Newcastle’s squad depth is being tested at a critical point in the season. With injuries piling up, including Lewis Hall, Sven Botman, and Alexander Isak, and Anthony Gordon serving a suspension, Eddie Howe must rely on his squad players. Their trip to West Ham will be a significant test as they push for European qualification and prepare for the Carabao Cup final.
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