After a short break from Premier League action, it’s back to work this weekend with three key games that will have major implications near the top of the table. Chelsea’s dominance has them clear of Southampton and Manchester City at the top of the standings but things can quickly change. They can’t afford to let off the gas. Meanwhile, Arsenal and Manchester United aren’t anywhere near comfortable in the sixth and seven positions, but only one team will be able to make a climb this week when the two teams clash.
Chelsea vs. West Bromwich
Saturday, 10:00 AM ET
The final international break is out of the way and Jose Mourinho can now concentrate on leading Chelsea to a Premier League title without distraction. Mourinho had to be happy that Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas didn’t play for Spain. Both players will be in action on Saturday as the Blues look to improve to 6-0-0 at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea has scored 13 goals while giving up only three at home this season and with a full squad of players available again this week, they should have no problem earning the maximum three points against a West Bromwich that has quickly slid down the table thanks to their poor play.
Pick: Chelsea
Manchester City vs. Swansea City
Saturday, 10:00 AM ET
While everything seems to be rolling along for Chelsea at the top of the table, Manchester City’s chase of top spot could take another hit this week with injuries potentially keeping three players out of the lineup including captain Vincent Kompany. Kompany is out with a calf injury while his usual replacement, Eliaquim Mangala, is also out with a calf problem and David Silva has a knee injury. Swansea City has looked good of late and there is a very good chance they could steal a point as the visiting team if they can find a way to expose the hole Kompany’s loss creates in City’s back line. Swansea has allowed more second half goals than any other Premier League this season but if they can play a strong final 45 minutes, they could steal a point in this one.
Pick: Draw
Arsenal vs. Manchester United
Saturday, 12:30 PM ET
On the topic of injuries, a potential game of the week candidate has also taken a hit due to players not being fit. United has lost three players because of injuries in international play. Daley Blind, Michael Carrick, and David De Gea will all miss Saturday’s game against Arsenal and that will make an already difficult test that much tougher. The reality is that United can’t afford to take any more losses and the hits they have taken could spoil a perfect opportunity versus an Arsenal team that has dropped more points than any other team from a winning position. Alexis Sanchez has scored 12 goals in his last 14 games for Arsenal and while they have won just four matches to this point they will have every opportunity to get back on track at home with three crucial points on the line this weekend.
Pick: Arsenal
