BURNLEY v ASTON VILLA
Burnley boast a tremendous home record so far this season having won five and lost just one of their games at Turf Moor. Villa, meanwhile, have recorded two victories on the road, including a win at Anfield, and another three points for Martin O’Neill’s men could take them into the top four if other results go their way.
SHAILY’S VERDICT: The Clarets are proving a tough nut to crack at fortress Turf Moor, but if Villa are to challenge for a top four finish these are the games they should be winning. The visitors to edge it 2-1.
JIIMMY ARMFIELD’S VERDICT: Burnley have made an impressive start to the campaign and they can take another point after a 1-1 draw.
LIVERPOOL v MANCHESTER CITY
A crucial game for both clubs in their quest to secure a top four finish and a win for City would take them four points ahead of Liverpool. City have drawn too many games of late, while Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has declared himself fit to try and help end the recent crisis at Anfield and ease the pressure on manager Rafa Benitez.
SHAILY’S VERDICT: The Liverpool fans will be much more confident with Gerrard back in the starting line-up, but it should be remembered that City have lost just once this season. Mark Hughes’ men to claim a share of the spoils after a 2-2 draw.
JIMMY ARMFIELD’S VERDICT: An important game for both teams, but I think Liverpool will just edge it 2-1.
SUNDERLAND v ARSENAL
Some of Arsenal’s attacking play has been breathtaking this season, with 17 different players on the scoresheet thus far. But Arsene Wenger’s squad will face their sternest test in the next few weeks given that strikers Robin van Persie and Nicklas Bendtner are out, while Theo Walcott is not expected to return until next week.
SHAILY’S VERDICT: I know Van Persie is missing but Arsenal can still call on the services of Eduardo and Carlos Vela and I think the Gunners will have too much firepower for the Black Cats. 3-1 away win.
JIMMY ARMFIELD’S VERDICT: Van Persie’s absence is a real blow but Cesc Fabregas and Andrei Arshavin have been playing very well and Arsenal can take this 2-1.
