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The Premier League has reached gameweek 34 and there are still plenty of issues to be decided at the top and bottom of the Premier League table. Here are the pick of gameweek 34’s games:
Saturday
Crystal Palace v Brighton (kick-off 3 PM)
This clash has become something of a grudge match in recent years. However, there is added significance to Saturday’s clash at Selhurst Park, with both sides looking to secure their Premier League status for next season.
The home side are just three points above the relegation zone, after a run of three defeats in their last five outings in the top-flight. One win in their last ten league outings has not helped their cause either. Roy Hodgson side has at least offered value for money in terms of goals, with over 2.5 goals scored in four of their last five top-flight outings. Despite their poor recent run of form, the home side are favourites to win this clash.
Brighton are in a healthier position in the table than the home side, seven points clear of the drop zone with just six games to play. One more win could be enough for Chris Hughton’s side to secure safety this season. However, the Seagulls head into this game on the back of a three-game winless run in the league, having suffered two defeats and drawn once. The visitors have also failed to win on their travels in their last nine attempts.
Tottenham v Manchester City (Kick-off 7:45)
Champions-elect Manchester City heads into this clash at Wembley on the back of three straight defeats in all competitions. In-form Spurs will be determined to make it four defeats in a row for the visitors.
Tottenham heads into this game unbeaten in 14 league games, having recorded six straight wins in the English top-flight. Mauricio Pochettino’s side has been lethal in front of goal of late, scoring at least two goals in their last four league outings. The home side has also been strong on home soil in the top-flight, recording four consecutive victories at Wembley in the league, while keeping clean sheets in all four wins.
The North London side will be going all out to seal a top-three spot, which means avoiding the Champions League play-offs. Spurs are currently level with third-place Liverpool, but the north London side has a game in-hand.
Manchester City blew the chance of sealing the title against arch-rivals Manchester United last time out at the Etihad Stadium by losing 3-2. It seems unlikely that the Citizens will seal the title this weekend, as rivals United face a home game with already relegated West Brom. As Pep Guardiola’s side are 13 points clear it does look likely that the visitors will still win the league.
The recent defeats were rare blips for City, who prior to the defeat against United had recorded five straight league wins. Guardiola’s side has also recorded three consecutive wins on their travels in the Premier League, scoring at least two goals in all three victories. This game could be a tough one for the Citizens on after those three defeats.
Other games this weekend: (3 PM Kick-off unless stated)
Saturday
Southampton v Chelsea (12:30 PM Kick-off)
Swansea v Everton
Burnley v Leicester
Huddersfield v Watford
Liverpool v Bournemouth (5:30 PM Kick-off)
Sunday
Newcastle v Arsenal (1:30 PM Kick-off)
Manchester United v West Brom (4 PM Kick-off)
Monday
West Ham v Stoke (8 PM Kick-off)
Who will be the big winners in the Premier League this weekend?
