What to Watch: Week 11 NLD Edition

By Jonathan Slape 4 years ago

It is the return of fans to stadia in the Premier League – just in time for my return from a two-week hiatus. The Reds do not play on until the late match on Sunday, which gives you plenty of time to catch the other football matches throughout the weekend. Alas, the Friday match has been postponed due to a COVID-19 outbreak in the Newcastle squad… so let’s dive in and look at the matches to watch.

West Ham United v Manchester United

Saturday 12:30pm EST

No one wants to get up early for Everton v Burnley, and we all know how Manchester City v Fulham will end. Next up is West Ham v Manchester United.

If I was to tell you that one of these teams was sitting in fifth and the other one was in ninth, you would assume Manchester United would be higher up the table. West Ham have been off to impressive start with results against Leicester, Tottenham and Man City. David Moyes will be looking to secure another win against an inconsistent Manchester United. The Hammers will be without star forward Michail Antonio, which could hamper their ability to score.

This Man United team has been one of the hardest teams to predict. Will they win by a large margin, or get absolutely crushed? Lose a close one, or net a late winner? Against West Ham, they will be up against a physical side that can dominate in the midfield, but lack the creative ability of United. If United are able to limit chances at the back, they should be able to at least get a point on the road.

Chelsea FC v Leeds United

Saturday 3:00pm EST

Finally a late Saturday match that is worth watching!

It has taken some time for the team to gel, but Chelsea FC find themselves rounding in to form as we head for the hectic festive period. Midweek, they picked up a resounding four-goal win away to Sevilla that has them winning their UCL group. One of their strengths in the league has been the solidity at the back, but that will be tested against this high-flying Leeds team. If Chelsea is able to get a goal early, they should be able to sit back and pick apart Leeds on the counter.

Going in to last weekend Leeds United were winless in their last six, but were given the perfect antidote to a winless streak: a match against Everton. Against the Blues, Biesla’s team was able to contain their midfield and transition quickly. Chelsea has a few more offensive weapons than their northern counterparts, but the Leeds high press could allow them some chances. The question will be… can they convert?

Tottenham v Arsenal

Sunday 11:30am EST

The North London Derby is a spectacle that is always filled with excitement and a few goals. That excitement is ramped up to 11 when it is coupled with the league leaders, coached by Jose Mourinho. I know most Liverpool fans will be watching this match hoping for a Spurs slip. Unfortunately, I do not see that coming this week. Harry Kane is in the form of his life, adding assists to an already impressive goalscoring ability. The added bonus of Gareth Bale regaining match fitness will make for an even stronger attack. Will Arsenal be able to keep the attacking talent of Spurs in check?

Before we take a look at Arsenal, a live look at Arteta’s team talk:

Arsenal have experienced a very up-and-down year. They have been very good in the Europa League, winning all of their matches. In the Premier League however, they have been inconsistent at best, and poor at worst. They have struggled for creativity in the middle of the pitch and have been hampered by the absence of Thomas Partey. Arteta has said that there is a small chance Partey could be available on the weekend. If so, Arsenal could have a chance at nicking a point, but I believe this will be a convincing Spurs win.

What matches are you watching this weekend? Is there another match you are keeping an eye on? Let us know your thoughts and predictions on Twitter @ScousersUS or my personal account @JSlapeSSP

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