Last week was a dramatic way to welcome many newcomers to the Premier League. Brentford blew Manchester United away to pile on the misery for Erik Ten Hag’s men. Chelsea and Spurs played out a thriller with the highlight being the clash between managers Thomas Tuchel and Antonio Conte. Darwin Nunez saw red as Liverpool huffed and puffed to a 1-1 draw against Crystal palace.
Matchweek 3 is expected to be as action packed as ever. Let us take a look at the fixtures –
Tottenham vs Wolves – After the drama of last weekend, Spurs will be without their manager Conte on the touchline. While Spurs are looking as strong as they ever have, Wolves are no pushovers. Expect Wolves to defend deep and counter quick. Spurs will look for an early goal to initiate proceedings.
DribbleSensei Verdict – Tottenham Hotspur win
Everton vs Nottingham Forest – Forest look like a well drilled side but need to find consistency. Their win over West Ham was largely down to the heroics of goalkeeper Dean Henderson (on loan from man utd). Everton are a team hard to assess. They could have beaten Aston Villa but they need to improve on their finishing.
DribbleSensei Verdict – Nottingham Forest win
Leicester vs Southampton – Leicester are another team who need to find their mojo. They were good in moments against Arsenal but their midfield was easily bypassed at times. While Southampton play some good football at times, their squad is not of the standard required to compete for a top half spot.
DribbleSensei Verdict – Leicester win
Fulham vs Brentford – Surprisingly Fulham have managed to come away with two draws from two games. They have a good squad and they play like a team. They sit deep and defend with discipline and counter hard. It is soon to call this, but I think they might just stay up this season. Brentford are on the back of one of the best performances I have seen in the Premier League. They absolutely demolished a hapless Man Utd in a first half blitz. Expect them to challenge for a top half finish this season.
DribbleSensei Verdict – Brentford win
Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa – Crystal Palace are yet to show what they are capable of so far. While a draw against Liverpool was good, it was more down to Liverpool being poor. Aston Villa have been good in moments and their defense has been chaotic. Manager Stephen Gerrard needs to sort out these issues if they seek to challenge for a European spot.
DribbleSensei Verdict – Could go either way
Bournemouth vs Arsenal – While Bournemouth haven’t been particularly bad, they should not be expected to beat Arsenal. The Gunners have been excellent so far, playing some good football and pressing as a unit.
DribbleSensei Verdict – Arsenal win
West Ham vs Brighton – Both teams have displayed their level and style in recent years. This is anyone’s game with both having excellent positional play and good defensive ethic.
DribbleSensei Verdict – Could go either way
Leeds vs Chelsea – Leeds have done well despite losing their main players. They have the capability to provide an upset on their day. Despite having a slow transfer window, Chelsea have managed to maintain their high standards. Their only major issue is the lack of a recognized striker. They might decide to rescue a certain Portuguese from his hell in Manchester….
DribbleSensei Verdict – Chelsea win
Newcastle vs Man City – The “oil” derby will be interesting to watch. Despite spending a good amount of money, Newcastle are still much behind the curve in comparison to Man City. Maybe in another 3 years this fixture will be a spectacle.
DribbleSensei Verdict – Man City win
Man Utd vs Liverpool – Despite a slow start to their season, Klopp’s men are still one of the favorites to win the league. This fixture always tends to bring out the best in players. Expect brilliant football, quick build up, and goals……and whatever man utd will do.
DribbleSensei Verdict – Liverpool win
