The Premier League returns to full action this weekend and Grosvenor Sport ambassador Jamie O’Hara is on hand to put three key fixtures under the microscope, including Sunday’s all-important North London Derby.
Southampton v Manchester United – Saturday 12:30
I haven’t been overly convinced by Southampton since their return to the Premier League. Three defeats against Brentford, Nottingham Forest at home and 10-men Newcastle isn’t exactly a ringing endorsement.
I don’t like the brand of football they play – it’s too risky given the quality of players they have available to them. How many clubs come up from the Championship and stay up by passing other teams off the park? I just don’t see it and I think Russell Martin should reconsider his approach.
I actually thought Manchester United were okay in their first two games of the season – they played well in that defeat to Brighton, but they were terrible against Liverpool. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – I don’t think Erik ten Hag will last the full season. They’re so easy to play against – teams just need to string two or three passes together against them and they’re in on goal.
I don’t think this will be a great game against two out of form teams after the international break – I can see it being a bit of a slog to be honest. Manchester United will probably nick it given they have better players.
Prediction: Southampton 1-2 Manchester United (13/2)
Bournemouth v Chelsea – Saturday 20:00
I think Bournemouth have looked pretty solid so far. They were the better team against Newcastle a few weeks back and were unlucky to only come away with a point there, while that comeback against Everton is surely one of the best in Premier League history.
I like Andoni Iraola – it looks like he’s able to get a tune out of his team. I thought the loss of Dominic Solanke would hurt them but they’ve still got a good player in Antoine Semenyo up top who can cause problems.
I don’t know what to make of Chelsea at the moment. One minute they’re blowing teams away then the next they’re scraping draws at home to teams that they really should be beating. That’s what separates them from the likes of Tottenham for me – Spurs know how to pick up three points in front of their own fans.
They seem to play better away from home so I back them to score one or two here. I really like Noni Madueke on that right hand side – he was good for England when he came on against Finland, I love how direct he is with the ball.
Bournemouth are undefeated after three games and I don’t see that changing here – I think they get a draw at least. I can see goals for both sides given how open Chelsea look at times.
Prediction: Bournemouth 2-2 Chelsea (9/1)
Tottenham v Arsenal – Sunday 14:00
I’ve got a feeling Arsenal might be in for a rough ride this weekend! With Declan Rice suspended and Martin Ødegaard most likely out, their lineup is looking a bit shaky. The Arsenal fans are still moaning about that red card – yes, it is harsh, but it probably is a red, so move on!
Rice has been a real game-changer for Arsenal, so his absence could be a big boost for Tottenham. Without him, Arsenal’s midfield could struggle a bit and James Maddison might find some space to make things happen. Arsenal’s defence, while solid, isn’t invincible. Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba are great, but they’re not exactly untouchable – they’re no Jaap Stam!
Tottenham have been playing some top-notch football, dominating possession and creating chances. We’ve seen strong performances against Leicester and Newcastle even if the results didn’t go our way, and it’s only a matter of time before those chances start finding the back of the net.
I’m expecting Tottenham to control the game, keep most of the possession, and make their opportunities count. Heung-min Son could easily bag a couple of goals, and with Dominic Solanke possibly returning and players like Wilson Odobert and Dejan Kulusevski ready to make their mark, Tottenham’s squad has everything it takes to shine in the North London Derby!
Prediction: Tottenham 2-1 Arsenal (8/1)
O’Hara’s Hotspots: Tottenham v Arsenal Bet Builder
- Tottenham to win
- Both Teams to score
- Heung-min Son to score anytime
BOOSTED FROM 15/2 TO 10/1