Ahead of each week’s Premier League action, we preview the key matches – and players – to watch out for.
Seaman vs Thorstvedt. King vs Henry. Luiz vs Kane.
Yes it’s North London derby time.
Sunday sees the first locking of horns between Spurs and Arsenal, with contrasting moods in both camps.
In Edmonton there’s a grouchy MoPo, waiting for the European transfer window to slam shut so he knows what he’s working with.
In Finsbury there’s a quietly optimistic Unai, who despite the loss to Liverpool last weekend, is seeing enough in his still embryonic side to suggest a longer-term revival.
So who’s worth including in your side?
Ndon’t pick Ndombele, as he’s out with a thigh problem. But Dele Alli could return to bolster Spurs’ midfield, and may even produce a match-defining contribution from the bench.
Given it’s at the Emirates however, it’s all eyes on Arsenal’s front three of Pepe, Lacazatte and Aubameyang. On paper lethal, on the pitch let’s see.
At St James Park, it’s an early season basement battle between Newcastle and Watford.
If the Magpies lose at home in front of an already restless Toon army, Steve Bruce may want to turn his phone off for a few days. If Watford lose, they’ll have lost four out of four – and history generally shows what becomes of sides with that sort of record.
With so much at stake, expect a draw or a low-scoring game – perhaps with Joelinton to make the difference with his confidence high after scoring last week.
Leicester and Bournemouth face off at the King Power on Saturday afternoon. It’s one of three matches with all-British managers this weekend, and Brendan Rodgers and Eddie Howe are particular flag-bearers for their generation.
Both sides play attractive, attacking football – and it would be a surprise if there weren’t a heap of goals. So if it’s clean sheets you’re after this weekend, probably transfer these backlines out!
At the other end of the pitch though, both sides have potent front men. James Maddison and Jamie Vardy are clicking nicely for the Foxes, and the Cherries have Dom Solanke, Josh King and Callum Wilson. For managers seeking appearance points, the only question is which of those will start.
