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Liam Canning’s Pick 4 Preview

Barnsley v Leeds

Leeds started the season promisingly, producing results that would keep them within play-off contention, but four losses in their last five games is an appalling run of form and things have quickly turned sour. They are still in 10th place, so there is time to turn things around, but Thomas Christensen’s side really have to start producing when it matters. For Barnsley, the story is all too familiar. They simply struggle to pick up the required points to kick on and challenge higher up in the table. Their recent form has been good, and so expect them to push Leeds all the way. There is going to be goals in this one!

Prediction: 1-1, AOD, 1-2, AOA

 

Manchester United v Brighton

José Mourinho’s men might have suffered a defeat against Basel in the Champions League, but there should be no doubt that they are beginning to find their early season form again. Paul Pogba has returned to the starting XI, which allows United to operate more efficiently and provides overall balance to the team. Brighton, under Chris Hughton, have done well so far this season, with their only priority being to stay in the division. Coming away from Old Trafford with a result is not going to be easy, especially with United having key personnel back and raring to go.

Prediction: 3-0, 3-1, AOH

Swansea v Bournemouth

Swansea have been hugely disappointing this season so far. The Welsh side might have produced a coup in signing Renato Sanches on-loan, but the Portuguese U21 international has not been producing what he is capable of on the pitch. Swansea have an awful record against Bournemouth, and have not beaten the Cherries since 2007. The last five results have been one draw and four losses for the Swans. Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth have had their own troubles this year, but they should be quietly confident coming into this game after producing four wins in their last five games – that loss coming against Chelsea. Callum Wilson is in superb form and will be expected to continue finding the back of the net against Swansea.

Prediction: 0-0, 0-1, 0-2 

 

Liverpool v Chelsea

This fixture has always been an intriguing and fascinating watch – especially when the two clubs were playing against each other in the peak of their powers. Chelsea do not enjoy playing against the Reds, especially with Jürgen Klopp in charge. In their last five match ups, Chelsea have lost two and drawn three. They have not beaten Liverpool since January 2015. The Reds can go level on points at the weekend if they are to beat Chelsea, which would be quite surprising, given how poorly they started. Chelsea will look to test Liverpool’s defence, but might face their own problems with the Reds’ blistering counter attack. Expect drama!

Prediction: 2-1, AOH, 1-1, AOD

 

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