England English Football 2025/26 - Premier League, Championship & lower leagues discussion

[Betting Forum]

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We are trying something new for this season.

Instead of opening a new thread every week, all English football discussion for the 2025/26 season - Premier League, Championship, League One, League Two and lower leagues - will go in this single thread. We are starting it midway through the season so that everything from now on stays in one place and is easier to follow.

Why one main thread​

• all pre match talk, live reactions and post match analysis stay together
• you can scroll back and see how lines and opinions changed during the season
• we avoid dozens of tiny threads that die after a few days
• new members immediately see where the action is

What belongs here​

Use this thread for anything related to the current English football season (top flight and lower leagues):

• thoughts on upcoming rounds and fixtures across all divisions
• betting ideas, angles and odds discussion
• live reactions during matches
• post match takeaways and lessons
• news that seriously affect teams or lines

If you post about a match, start with the fixture and competition, for example:
Liverpool - Arsenal, Saturday (Premier League)
Leeds - Sunderland, Friday (Championship)

What does not belong here​

• off topic arguments not related to football or betting
• technical questions about accounts, deposits, support and so on

How we will use this by season​

We will keep one main English Football thread per season. At the end of 2025/26 this thread will be closed and a new one will be opened for 2026/27. For now, use this thread for everything English football 2025/26 from this point on. Let us see how it works in practice.

 

[Betting Forum]

Participate in the Vbookie Premier League betting. All for fun of course. Odds are from pinnacle.

Settled Event 'Fulham - Manchester City'

• Betting Forum
• Event closes Dec 2, 2025
• Views: 150
• Comments: 1

Outcomes

3

Wagers

8

Staked

$35.00

Paid out

$16.22

Settled Event 'Bournemouth - Everton'

• Betting Forum
• Event closes Dec 2, 2025
• Views: 86

Outcomes

3

Wagers

3

Staked

$35.00

Paid out

$27.30

Settled Event 'Newcastle United - Tottenham Hotspur'

• Betting Forum
• Event closes Dec 2, 2025
• Views: 85

Outcomes

3

Wagers

1

Staked

$6.00

Paid out

$18.72

Settled Event 'Arsenal - Brentford'

• Betting Forum
• Event closes Dec 3, 2025
• Views: 103

Outcomes

3

Wagers

4

Staked

$123.00

Paid out

$35.41

Settled Event 'Wolverhampton - Nottingham Forest'

• Betting Forum
• Event closes Dec 3, 2025
• Views: 85

Outcomes

3

Wagers

0

Staked

$0.00

Paid out

$0.00

Settled Event 'Brighton - Aston Villa'

• Betting Forum
• Event closes Dec 3, 2025
• Views: 80

Outcomes

3

Wagers

0

Staked

$0.00

Paid out

$0.00

Settled Event 'Burnley - Crystal Palace'

• Betting Forum
• Event closes Dec 3, 2025
• Views: 87

Outcomes

3

Wagers

0

Staked

$0.00

Paid out

$0.00

Settled Event 'Liverpool - Sunderland'

• Betting Forum
• Event closes Dec 3, 2025
• Views: 87

Outcomes

3

Wagers

1

Staked

$50.00

Paid out

$0.00

Settled Event 'Leeds United - Chelsea'

• Betting Forum
• Event closes Dec 3, 2025
• Views: 71

Outcomes

3

Wagers

0

Staked

$0.00

Paid out

$0.00

 

[Betting Forum]

Well, I already staked 10$ on Manchester city. Lets hope they do not fuck it.
That being said, if your Virtual money goes to 0. You will receive help, 10$ to start again. If you lose it again, you need to wait 2 days before you receive another help, so be wise. You are given 200$ upon registration. Bet 1-2% of your bankroll like in real world. Let your Virtual cash show that you are a great bettor.

 

[DublinDegen]

Bournemouth - Everton this wednesday and honestly lads this one screams chaos to me in the best possible way.

Bournemouth have been fun, aggressive, a bit reckless, the kind of team that can look like top six material for 20 minutes then suddenly forget how to defend a back post cross. Everton on the other hand have that weird habit of being either stubborn as granite or leaking goals like a broken tap depending on which version shows up. No middle ground at all.

If Bournemouth push the tempo like they usually do at home, I reckon they can pull Everton all over the place. Solanke has been in that mood lately where he looks like he fancies a goal every match and Everton have given away enough silly chances recently to make me think there will be opportunities.

My gut says Bournemouth edge it, maybe 2-1, maybe a late scare or a daft VAR check just to make us sweat. Everton can definitely spoil the party but if Bournemouth get on the front foot early I think they carry it.

I will stick 20$ on Bournemouth in VBookie because I like living dangerously and I enjoy the panic of a narrow lead more than a sensible bet ever should.

Up the cherries, let the suffering commence.

 

[DublinDegen]

right newcastle united - tottenham hotspur on 3rd december is one of those games that always feels like it’s going to be pure chaos even when you tell yourself you’ll watch it calmly like a normal adult

you’ve got newcastle at home energy where the crowd turns every throw-in into a life-or-death situation, and spurs who can look like prime barcelona for 20 minutes and then concede something that makes you stare at the wall like you’ve just watched a magic trick go wrong

the big thing for me is pace and transitions. both sides can be brilliant when the game gets stretched, which basically means the first team that gets frustrated and starts forcing it is the first team that’s going to get punched in the mouth. if this turns into end-to-end basketball football, it suits spurs when it’s clicking, but it also suits newcastle because they love a scrap and they love arriving in the box like it’s a stampede

spurs in these matches always have the same danger. when they move it quick through midfield and suddenly there’s runners everywhere, you blink and they’re in behind. but the flip side is they can leave gaps that you could park a double decker in, and newcastle are exactly the kind of team that will actually drive the bus straight into those spaces instead of politely ignoring them

newcastle’s job is simple in theory, horrible in practice. make it uncomfortable. win second balls. keep spurs facing their own goal more than they want to. and once you get the crowd going, you can feel spurs start doing that thing where they try to play through pressure just because they’re stubborn about it, and then one bad touch becomes a chance at the other end

but if newcastle come out too hot and over-commit, spurs will absolutely cook them on the break. this is why i think the first 15 minutes matters more than people admit. if it’s frantic early, we’re in for a “both teams look dangerous” type of night. if it’s cagey and you see more recycling the ball, then it becomes about who blinks first and who takes their chances

as for what i’m expecting, i can see goals. not because it’s guaranteed or anything, just because these two can both create and both have moments where defending looks like an optional side quest. and i’m not even trying to be funny here, i just don’t trust either to keep the lid on for 90 minutes if the game opens up

score vibe in my head is something like 2-1 either way or a 2-2 that leaves everyone arguing about tactics and “game management” like any of us actually have game management in our own lives

anyone got a strong read on how spurs handle the atmosphere here, because every time i watch them in places like this it feels like the match is trying to drag them into a street fight and they’re deciding whether to swing back or keep playing pretty passes out of stubbornness

 

[spkutano]

Liverpool vs Sunderland Preview (Wednesday) Premier League:

Possible starting lineups:

Liverpool:
Alisson; Jones, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Gakpo; Isak

Sunderland:
Roefs; Mukiele, Geertruida, Ballard, Alderete, Reinildo; Xhaka, Sadiki; Le Fee; Traore, Brobbey

Liverpool fans were expecting another successful season from their club. The way they were thinking was simple - Liverpool are the reigning champions and Liverpool invested more than 400 GBP during the summer. And just like that, Arne Slot's side recorded five victories in the opening five rounds of the Premier League. One of these victories was obtain against Arsenal and everything looked perfect for the Reds. Some pundits warned Slot about the defensive weaknesses, like Jamie Carragher personally, but nobody took them seriously. The catastrophe started at Selhurst Park, when Liverpool lost 2:1 to Crystal Palace. Five more league defeats in the next six weeks put Slot under heavy pressure, as well as Carabao Cup elimination and two defeats in the Champions League. Last weekend brought some hope when the Reds won 2:0 against West Ham. To be better, Isak scored his first goal in the Premier League, while Wirtz was named "Player of the Match". With Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong out injured, Slot has a decision to make about right-back position. Two games in just three days could be too much for Joe Gomez.

Sunderland are sharing the fifth place on the table with Brighton, something that nobody was expecting, considering they are newcomers in the Premier League. Even their own fans. But six wins, four draws and just three defeats in the opening 13 rounds should be respected. Manager Regis Le Bris is doing a fantastic job and the fans are satisfied. Some of them start dreaming about the Champions League football for the next season. It won't be easy at all, though nothing is impossible. The confidence is high, even more after the last round. Le Bris and his players wrote a club history last weekend, as for the first time ever, Sunderland came back from 2:0 down to win a Premier League game. Bournemouth scored twice at the Stadium of Light, but responses from Enzo Le Fee, Bertrand Traore and substitute Brian Brobbey completed a huge comeback. I believe the atmosphere in the squad is very good at the moment. Le Bris has the majority of his players available for the trip to Anfield, only Aji Alese and Habib Diarra are out injured.

Liverpool vs Sunderland Prediction:

Liverpool are favorites, but Sunderland are heavily underestimated. The Black Cats are able to upset even the big names. Let me remind You, Sunderland beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, while drew with Arsenal and Aston Villa. The players confidence is very high and they won't be afraid at Anfield. Usually this is a venue no opponents' player want to feature, but right now is different. Liverpool lost 3:0 to Nottingham and lost 4:1 to PSV on the last two matches at Anfield. Sunderland boss Le Bris surely noticed the defensive weaknesses of Liverpool.To conceded seven goals on the last two home matches across all competitions is simply unacceptable for the fans. Looking the fans leaving Anfield before the final whistle was very rare situation in the past, but not anymore. As conclusion, I think Sunderland won't lose high at Anfield.

Liverpool vs Sunderland Pick: Sunderland +1.5 AH @ 1.85 with Pinnacle

 

[spkutano]

Leeds United vs Chelsea Preview (Wednesday) Premier League:

Possible starting lineups:

Leeds United:
Perri; Rodon, Struijk, Bijol; Bogle, Gruev, Ampadu, Tanaka, Gudmundsson; Calvert-Lewin, Nmecha

Chelsea:i
Sanchez; Gusto, Adarabioyo, Chalobah, Cucurella; Santos, Fernandez; Estevao, Pedro, Neto; Delap

Leeds United have collect 11 points after the first 13 rounds and they sit third from the bottom, on the 18th place. The Whites are deeply involved into the relegation battle and the points from the upcoming matches are very important. But something else is a bug problem, the current form. Leeds are in series of four consecutive defeats. Some of them could be somehow swallowed, like the last defeat. Leeds lost 3:2 to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. The way they played was fantastic, Leeds appeared to have pulled off a stunning comeback from two goals down, but Guardiola's men secured the victory through Phil Foden in the first minute of injury time. As I wrote above, that was the fourth defeat in row for Leeds. Previously they lost to Brighton, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa. Manager Farke has mixed news from the medical department. Sean Longstaff will miss the remainder of 2025 with a calf injury, while defender James Justin is rated as doubtful.

Chelsea are maybe the biggest surprise in the Premier League. They are third on the table, six points behind the league leaders Arsenal. Interesting, the Blues faced Arsenal three days ago, but failed to cut the difference. At the end, the points were shared and the distance remained the same. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was satisfied with a point from Stamford Bridge, but Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca was equally happy considering Moises Caicedo's sending-off. He will skip this match due to suspension and his absence is definitely a big handicap having on mind Romeo Lavia is missing through injury. As a result, Andrey Santos can expect to partner Enzo Fernandez in the engine room, with Cole Palmer ready to start from the first minute. Levi Colwill and Mykhaylo Mudryk remain out due to knee injury and suspension respectively. Finally, Dario Essugo is back in full training after a thigh operation, but this match come too soon for him.

Leeds United vs Chelsea Prediction:

Leeds United have collect 11 points and they are in the relegation zone. The current form is awful, Leeds are in series of four consecutive defeats. Manager Farke is under big pressure, as well as the players. On contrary, Chelsea are in excellent form, particularly away from home. They won the last three Premier League fixtures on road. The Blues managed to beat Tottenham Hotspur, Burnley and Nottingham Forest as guests. Furthermore, Chelsea have also found the back of the net in all 10 of their away games this season. The absence of Caicedo is a handicap, however I believe Maresca will find a solution for his position. The current form is on Chelsea side.​

Leeds United vs Chelsea Pick: Chelsea to win @ 1.81 with Pinnacle

 

[FadeThePublic]

If anyone here really wants to “prove” they can beat the Premier League, they can do it in the VBookie. That thing does not lie.

No filters, no cherry picked weekends, no “I forgot to count that bad beat”. Every ticket is there, every price is there, long term record is there. You either show profit over a big sample or you are just another guy who had a hot month and a loud opinion.

You can talk all you want in threads, but VBookie is the ultimate measurement of your betting level on this forum. If you are that good, it will show up there. If it never shows up there, you probably are not.

 

[spkutano]

Manchester United vs West Ham United Preview (Thursday) Premier League:

Possible starting lineups:

Manchester United:
Lammens; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Shaw; Diallo, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dalot; Mbeumo, Mount; Zirkzee

West Ham:
Areola; Wan-Bissaka, Todibo, Kilman, Diouf; Potts, Soucek; Bowen, Fernandes, Guilherme; Wilson

The last seasons were frustrating for Man United fans. The club signed lot of successful coaches, but none of them was able to secure the title. To be worse, two biggest rivals - Liverpool and Manchester City - dominate the English football. The Portuguese tactician Ruben Amorim was brought but the inconsistency remain the biggest problem. The current form is mixed, one win, one draw and one defeat on the last three matches. Manchester United beat Crystal Palace, lost to Everton and drew with Tottenham. The Red Devils are seventh on the table, just three points adrift of third-placed Chelsea. The next period is crucial for Amorim, a series of victories could see Manchester United inside Top-4. But some important players are struggling with injury. Summer signing Benjamin Sesko is sidelined with a knee injury and Harry Maguire is out with a thigh injury. Matheus Cunha, who missed the last two matches with a head injury, is rated as doubtful. Most probably he will start from the bench.

West Ham didn't start the season in best possible way, but some improvement could be noticed since Nuno Espirito Santo took the team. Until Sunday they were unbeaten on the previous three Premier League matches. The Hammers had two victories and one draw. They managed to beat Newcastle and Burnley, while shared the points with Bournemouth. West Ham were also competitive for most of the time against Liverpool, but the quality was on Reds side. On top of that, midfielder Lucas Paqueta was sent off and the fans were confused for his "ridiculous behaviour". Later he tried to explain the situation was a "reflection of everything I've had to endure". As You probably know, a near-two-year Football Association investigation into the Brazil midfielder ended in July when he was cleared of spot-fixing charges by an independent regulatory commission. Paqueta also apologized to his team-mates and fans. He won't play at Old Trafford due to suspension, while Lukasz Fabianski and Oliver Scarles are struggling with injury.

Manchester United vs West Ham United Prediction:

Manchester United should beat West Ham. There are three reasons for my pick. First is connect with the home advantage. Fully packed Old Trafford will be something like Man United's 12th player. The current form of both teams is the second reason. While the Red Devils beat Crystal Palace, West Ham suffered a painful home defeat to Liverpool. And third reason is connect with Lucas Paqueta. The Brazilian was sent-off against Liverpool and he is suspended. I already wrote about his stupid behaviour. However, he is one of key creatives and his absence is a big handicap. I expect Manchester United to win, probably in handicap. In case they win exactly with one goal, Your stake will return.

Manchester United vs West Ham United Pick: Manchester United -1.0 AH @ 1.75 with Pinnacle

 

[spkutano]

Aston Villa vs Arsenal Preview (Saturday) Premier League:

Possible starting lineups:

Aston Villa:
Bizot; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Kamara, Tielemans; Buendia, McGinn, Rogers; Watkins

Arsenal:
Raya; White, Timber, Hincapie, Calafiori; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Merino; Saka, Gyokeres, Eze

This is the most interesting Premier League match this weekend. Aston Villa ended the last season in frustrating way. A big referee's mistake prevent them from playing Champions League football this season. Maybe that was the main reason for the poor performances in the first two months of the new season. Just to remind You, Unai Emery's side failed to score a single goal in the opening four rounds. Nevertheless, Aston Villa are in fantastic form at the moment, winning the last four matches. They managed to beat Bournemouth, Leeds United, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Brighton. The last match was arguably the most interesting and most efficient, as Aston Villa won 4:3 at Amex. Emery has three injury worries ahead of this match. Ross Barkley and Tyrone Mings are sidelined with knee and thigh injury respectively. The duo is not expected back before the end of the calendar year. The former Gunners goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who was a late withdrawal from the squad to face Brighton with a back injury, is rated as doubtful. The last news from the medical department are not optimistic and Emery has suggested that this match comes too soon for him.

Arsenal are leaders in the Premier League. They have 33 points, five more than second-placed Manchester City and six more than third-placed Aston Villa. According to me, the Gunners are the most consistent side in the Premier League. Mikel Arteta composed a fantastic team and they are very strong at the moment, not only in England, but also in Europe. Arsenal managed to outplay the Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, as well as Athletic Bilbao, Atletico Madrid, Olympiakos and Slavia Prague. On Wednesday evening they beat 2:0 Brentford, but paid a high price as Cristhian Mosquera suffered injury in the first half, before Declan Rice came off with a calf problem. Both players are rated as doubtful together with William Saliba and Leandro Trossard. Having on mind that Gabriel Magalhaes will not return before Christmas, it is clear Arteta has big problem with central defenders. Finally, Kai Havertz has suffered a setback in his recovery from a knee problem and will be out for two or three weeks.

Aston Villa vs Arsenal Prediction:

Aston Villa failed to score a single goal in the opening four matches in the Premier League, but since then have scored in all but one game, against Liverpool at Anfield. Arsenal, meanwhile, have scored on all but one game. Interesting, it was again Liverpool and Anfield. However, I expect an efficient derby at Villa Park, with goals at both sides. Aston Villa won 4:3 against Brighton three days ago and the players confidence is very high.

Aston Villa vs Arsenal Pick: Both teams to score - Yes @ 1.91 with Bet365

 

[Betting Forum]

New matches from the Premier League available for Vbetting: Sportsbook

 

[spkutano]

Arsenal vs Wolverhampton Preview (Saturday) Premier League:

Possible starting lineups:

Arsenal:
Raya; White, Timber, Hincapie, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Norgaard, Rice; Saka, Gyokeres, Eze

Wolverhampton:
Johnstone; Krejci, Agbadou, Toti; Tchatchoua, Gomes, Andre, Wolfe; Lopez; Arokodare, Strand Larsen

I already wrote about Arsenal and their match against Aston Villa, predicting goals on both sides. My prediction was correct as Villa won 2:1. Once again Unai Emery showed his class. I must admit, I didn't expect Arsenal's defeat. The Gunners looked very good in the last period. Matty Cash opened the scoring in the 36th minute, but Leandro Trossard equalized in the 52nd minute. It was his sixth goal of the season. Everybody thought this will be the final result, however Emi Buendia found the back of the net in the 95th minute. However, Arsenal's response was imminent - they demolished 3:0 Club Brugge in the Champions League on Wednesday. Arteta is surely satisfy with the victory, but something else could be a big problem - injury and suspension list. Riccardo Calafiori is suspended, while 9 players are struggling with injury. Max Dowman, Cristhian Mosquera, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Magalhaes and Kai Havertz are definitely sidelined, while Declan Rice, William Saliba and Jurrien Timber are doubtful.

Wolverhampton are the weakest side in the Premier League. They started the season in awful way and so far recorded 13 defeats in the first 15 rounds. The Wolves have 33 conceded goals and it is clear the poor defense is the main reason for bad results. In the last round they suffered a high 4:1 defeat to Manchester United. Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring in the 25th minute, but Jean-Ricner Bellegarde equalized in the second minute of first-half injury time. Nevertheless, United scored three goals in the second half through Bryan Mbeumo (51'), Mason Mount (62') and Fernandes from penalty (82'). But the match was overshadowed by protests long before the first whistle. Wolverhampton fans staged a powerful protest against the club’s ownership. Every person in the club is feeling a huge pressure, starting with Chairman Jeff Shi and manager Edwards. He has some additional issues as Rodrigo Gomes, Marshall Munetsi, Leon Chiwone and Daniel Bentley are definitely out, while Bellegarde is rated as doubtful.

Arsenal vs Wolverhampton Prediction:

Arsenal have the best defensive record in the Premier League, just 9 conceded goals. However, the Gunners failed to register clean sheet on 4 of the last 5 league matches. Perhaps the absence of key defenders Saliba and Gabriel is the reason At the same time Arsenal look very strong in attack. Arteta has "sweet problem" to choose between Gyokeres, Eze, Gabriel Jesus and Madueke.. Of course, my anticipation is that Saka has a place guaranteed between the starting eleven. In addition, Odegaard, Merino and Rice are also able to score. As conclusion, Arsenal are able to score four goals alone, but if Wolves netted, even better. I expect at least four goals.

Arsenal vs Wolverhampton Pick: Arsenal Over 3.5 goals @ 2.36 with Pinnacle

 

[BlueMoonTips]

Chelsea vs Everton tomorrow is a weird one because you never quite know which Chelsea shows up.

On paper they have more quality, they move the ball well in spells and if they get the first goal the game can open up nicely for them. But they still switch off defensively and the midfield loses control too easily when pressed, which is exactly what Everton like to do right now - scrap, press, nick set pieces and make it a fight.

From a betting angle I slightly lean Chelsea, but not enough to lay a big number. I prefer Everton +0.75 on the handicap or Chelsea to win and both teams to score if the price is fair. I can see Everton creating enough chaos to get on the board even if they lose.

Prediction: Home win. Tight, nervous, probably not pretty.

 

[spkutano]

Liverpool vs Brighton Preview (Saturday) Premier League:

Possible starting lineups:

Liverpool:
Alisson; Gomez, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Jones, Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Szoboszlai, Isak, Wirtz

Brighton:
Verbruggen; Wieffer, Dunk, Van Hecke, Kadioglu; Baleba, Ayari; Minteh, Rutter, De Cuyper; Welbeck

Liverpool are very inconsistent this season. They started fantastic, with five victories in the Premier League, plus one against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. But the next period was awful, Arne Slot's men have lost six of the next seven Premier League matches. Maybe the "Black period" is behind considering the fact they are unbeaten on the last three league matches. However, they collect five from the possible nine points, which is far from desired result. Liverpool are currently 10th with 23 points, huge 10 points away from the leaders Arsenal. On Tuesday Reds won 1:0 against Inter Milan in the Champions League. The lone goal was scored by Dominic Szoboszlai, who converted a penalty in the finish of the match. Slot has bit injury and suspension worries ahead of Saturday's game. Cody Gakpo and Giovanni Leoni are sidelined due to injury, while Jeremie Frimpong , Federico Chiesa and Wataru Endo are doubtful. That's not all as Conor Bradley is suspended, while the situation with Mo Salah is not clear.

Brighton also have 23 points, but sit on the 8th position due to superior goal-difference. The Seagulls are very unpredictable side, they could beat any opponents, but often lose to relegation candidates. For example, Brighton managed to beat Manchester City, Chelsea and Newcastle, but at the same time they dropped points against relegation candidates like Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham. The match against the Hammers was almost lost, Brighton were one-goal down until the last moments. However, they equalized in the finish of the match through Georginio Rutter. It was his first Premier League goal of the season. After the match, manager Fabian Hurzeler admitted Brighton "did not deserve" more than a point after a poor display. The young coach has some additional issues as Stefanos Tzimas, Solly March, Adam Webster and ex-Reds James Milner are sidelined with injuries. One of the key players Kaoru Mitoma is struggling with an ankle problem and he remain doubtful, as well as Yasin Ayari and Tom Watson.

Liverpool vs Brighton Prediction:

Liverpool managed to beat Inter in the Champions League on Tuesday. The victories are always good for the atmosphere in the squad, but not now. Something else is more important - Mohamed Salah and his verbal attack on the club. The Egypt winger didn't travel to Italy and his availability here is highly doubtful. His situation dominate the headlines, with one question - has he already played his final game for Liverpool, club accused of "throwing him under the bus". However, with or without Salah, I expect an open and efficient match at Anfield. Slot will attack with all weapons, this is a "must win" situation for the Reds. But Brighton are able to upset the hosts. The Seagulls played efficient matches with clubs from Big-Six. In October they lost 4:2 at Old Trafford, but won 3:1 at Stamford Bridge previously. Furthermore, Brighton won 2:1 against Manchester City and drew 2:2 with Tottenham. Two more games should also be mentioned - Brighton lost 4:3 to Aston Villa and beat Newcastle 2:1. As You could see, there are lot of goals on Brighton's derby matches. I expect the series to continue.

Liverpool vs Brighton Pick: Over 2.5 goals @ 1.54 with Pinnacle

 

[spkutano]

Tottenham vs Liverpool Preview (Sat, 20.12.2025) Premier League:

Possible starting lineups:

Tottenham:
Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Palhinha, Bergvall; Kudus, Simons, Kolo Muani; Richarlison

Liverpool:
Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Chiesa, Jones, Wirtz; Ekitike

Tottenham will welcome the reigning champions Liverpool on Saturday evening in a derby match of Round 17. Both teams play very inconsistent and both managers - Thomas Frank and Arne Slot - are under pressure. Tottenham have won just one of their last five league games, losing three of them. That includes a 3:0 defeat at Nottingham Forest last Sunday. The defeat raised more questions about Frank's future. However, some pundits said the players and club management are also responsible for the poor results. And not only the Lewis family (current owners), but also Daniel Levy. However, Frank need a good result against the reigning champions, but it won't be easy. The results in Europe are slightly better - Tottenham are currently 11th in the Champions League table with a live chance of securing automatic qualification to the knockout stages. But the players confidence isn't high and that's a big problem. Furthermore, the Dane has big injury issues. Dominic Solanke, Dejan Kulusevski, Destiny Udogie and James Maddison remain out. Furthermore, this match comes too soon for Radu Dragusin and Kota Takai. But there is more as as Pape Sarr and Yves Bissouma are on international duties representing Senegal and Mali respectively at AFCON.

Liverpool are the reigning champions, but right now they are outside Top-Four on the Premier League table. The Reds should be heading to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium confident after two wins in a row in all competitions, but also playing the Spurs at a good time. Liverpool first beat Inter Milan in the Champions League thanks to controversial penalty in the finish of the match, converted by Dominic Szoboszlai. On Saturday they beat 2:0 Brighton in the Premier League. Key player Mohamed Salah didn't travel to Italy, though the 33-year-old was reunited with his teammates for the Premier League clash against Brighton at the weekend. Hugo Ekitike was double scorer, but Salah assisted the second. Slot will miss Salah anyway in the next period as he is on international duty with Egypt at Africa Cup of Nations. His absence is a big handicap, but not the only one. The best player Dominik Szoboszlai has suffered an ankle injury against Brighton and he is highly doubtful. Joe Gomez is sidelined too, as well as Wataru Endo, Cody Gakpo and Giovanni Leoni. On the positive note, there is a competition for the right-back as Conor Bradley is back from a suspension, while Jeremie Frimpong has recovered from a thigh injury.

Tottenham vs Liverpool Prediction:

I expect an open and efficient match in London. Tottenham are in the second part of the table, but they play efficient matches when faced the favorites in the last period. For example, the Spurs drew 2:2 with Newcastle and Manchester United, lost 5:1 to Arsenal and lost 5:3 to PSG in the Champions League. At the same time they beat 3:0 Slavia Prague and 4:0 FC Copenhagen. Last season Liverpool beat Tottenham with 6:3 and 5:1. A total of 15 goals were scored on the last two mutual games which means an average of 7.5 goals per game. I am well aware of the fact it is too many goals, but at least three should be scored here.

Tottenham vs Liverpool Pick: Over 2.5 goals @ 1.70 with Pinnacle

 

[spkutano]

Newcastle United vs Chelsea Preview (Saturday, 20.12.2025) Premier League:

Possible starting lineups:

Newcastle United:
Ramsdale; Miley, Schar, Thiaw, Hall; Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Elanga, Woltemade, Gordon

Chelsea:
Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Fofana, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Garnacho; Pedro

Edie Howe has a big problem. It is very hard to play both domestically and in Europe with limited roster. The atmosphere in the squad is far from ideal after the derby defeat from Sunderland. The North East neighbors renewed hostilities for the first time since 2016 and it was Nick Woltemade who scored the lone goal - but in the wrong net. I think the fans will quickly forget his mistake, they love the young German who is the club top scorer with five league goals, The Champions League campaign is solid, the Magpies are 12th on the overall table, with 10 points. However, there is no space for relaxation and they need to collect few more points. The competition will continue on 20 January next year, so Edie Howe could be fully focused on the Premier League. For this match he has big injury issues. Dan Burn is the latest victim after suffering a rib injury in the derby against Sunderland. He will be out for at least three weeks and his absence is a big handicap. Tino Livramento sustained a knee injury in midweek and won't play here. Kieran Trippier, Sven Botman and William Osula remain out, but Nick Pope could return from a groin injury. However, nobody guarantee him the No1 role again, particularly after Ramsdale's good performances.

Chelsea are fourth on the table, eight points behind the league leaders Arsenal. The current form is mixed, one win, one draw and one defeat on the last three Premier League matches. The Blues suffered a painful 3:1 defeat at Leeds, shared the points with Bournemouth and won 2:0 against Everton last weekend. Chelsea were also successful in the Carabao Cup. They secured semifinals after beat Cardiff City with 3:1. The Blues were fantastic against Barcelona in the Champions League. Chelsea completely outplayed the Catalans, winning 3:0 thanks to goals scored by Estevao and Liam Delap, plus an own goal by Kounde. But the consistency is not Chelsea's trademark, they suffered a 2:1 defeat to Ivan Juric's Atalanta in the next round. Maresca will be missing five players due to injury - Romeo Lavia, Benoît Badiashile, Levi Colwill, Liam Delap and Estevao. Mykhaylo Mudryk remain out due to suspension. On the positive note, Caicedo is back from suspension and should come straight back into the starting eleven. Alejandro Garnacho will hope to start from the first minute after scoring two goals against Cardiff.

Newcastle United vs Chelsea Prediction:

Newcastle are in the second part of the table, on the 12th place and I believe the fans are not fully satisfied. Of course, they are aware of the situation. The Magpies play in three different competitions, but their roster is nowhere near the rosters of Arsenal, Manchester City or Chelsea. On top of that, Dan Burn and Tino Livramento are the latest injury victims. Howe's men looked very tired in the derby against Sunderland last weekend. The defeat is a problem, but the performance even bigger. Newcastle had only two shots on target for 90 minutes. On Wednesday Newcastle beat Fulham at St James' Park in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals. The players confidence is higher, but at the same time the key players are tired. Bruno Guimaraes played the whole 90 minutes on Wednesday, Barnes and Murphy played 85 minutes. Chelsea have 24 hours more between two matches and this fact should not be underestimated. Plus, Caicedo is fresh after skipped the last three domestic fixtures due to suspension. According to me, Chelsea are closer to the victory.

Newcastle United vs Chelsea Pick: Chelsea to win @ 2.61 with Pinnacle

 

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Aston Villa vs Manchester United Preview (Sunday, 21.12.2025) Premier League:

Possible starting lineups:

Aston Villa:
Martinez; Cash, Lindelof, Konsa, Maatsen; Onana, Kamara; McGinn, Tielemans, Rogers; Watkins

Manchester United:
Lammens; Yoro, Martinez, Shaw; Dalot, Mainoo, Fernandes, Dorgu; Mount, Cunha; Sesko

Aston Villa will welcome Manchester United to Villa Park on Sunday afternoon. Unai Emery's side are in terrific form, 10 victories on the last 11 Premier League matches. Arsenal and Manchester City are among the victims. Furthermore, Villa are in series of nine victories across all competitions. The atmosphere in the squad is excellent, while the players confidence is high. They are step away from writing a history. A victory this weekend would mark the first time since 1914 that Aston Villa have won 10 consecutive fixtures across all competitions. Emery is doing a great job and the fans are pleased. Many of them start dreaming about the title. Of course, it won't be easy considering the roster. Villa are also successful in UEFA Europe League, they share the first place with Lyon and Midtjylland. The biggest worry fir Emery is the injury situation. At the moment, just three names are in the list - Pau Torres, Tyrone Mings and Ross Barkley. In addition, Jadon Sancho is ineligible to face his parent club.

Manchester United have no European duty and they are fully focused on the Premier League. However, the results are not at desired level. The Red Devils sit on the sixth place with 26 points, just two points away from the Champions League spots. There is one problem - inconsistency. For example, Man United managed to beat Liverpool at Anfield and Chelsea at home, but dropped points against "small" teams. The current form is solid, two victories and two draws on the last four matches. But the last match against Bournemouth showed big defensive problems . The Red Devils have scored four goals, but failed to record a victory. Even more, goalkeeper Lammens saved United from a painful defeat in the final moments. But there is one question - how will the attack work without Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo? They will be out in the next period as they will play at the Africa Cup of Nations, just as Noussair Mazraoui. The absence of the mentioned trio is a big handicap. But there is more, Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire are struggling with injuries, while Casemiro is suspended.

Aston Villa vs Manchester United Prediction:

I expect an interesting clash here. Aston Villa are in fantastic form, they won the last 9 matches in all competitions.. A victory here means .a history - the first time since 1914 that Aston Villa have won 10 consecutive fixtures across all competitions. The players confidence is very high and they will enter the match fully motivated. Manchester United, meanwhile, were known for good attack and poor defense. They scored four against Bournemouth, but didn't win as conceded four too. But the efficiency is questionable in situation where the club top scorer Mbeumo (6 goals) and the third scorer Casemiro (4 goals) are out. Amad Diallo, who had 4 goals to his name (scored 2 and assisted 2) is also out of this match. The guests are very handicapped and I expect Aston Villa to win.

Aston Villa vs Manchester United Pick: Aston Villa to win @ 2.10 with Pinnacle

 

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Fulham vs Nottingham Forest Preview (Monday, 22.12.2025) Premier League:

Possible starting lineups:

Fulham:
Leno; Tete, Andersen, Cuenca, Robinson; Berge, Lukic; Wilson, Smith Rowe, Kevin; Jimenez

Nottingham Forest:
Sels; Savona, Murillo, Milenkovic, Williams; Luiz, Anderson; Hutchinson, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Jesus

Fulham will welcome Nottingham Forest to Craven Cottage on Monday night. The hosts are 15th on the table with 20 points, while the Tricky Trees are two places bellow with 18 points. Both teams are in solid form and both teams have three victories on the last five Premier League matches. Fulham managed to beat Sunderland, Tottenham and Burnley, while lost to Crystal Palace and Manchester City. The match against the Citizens was a memorable. City had 5:1 in the second half and the situation looked like hopeless for the Cottagers. However, they refused to give up, scored three and were unlucky to score equalizer. Marco Silva's men played a good football, and they do not deserve to be involved into the relegation battle. But the situation is additionally complicated now due to African Cup of Nations. Three very important players - Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze - are with their national team (Nigeria). To be worse, Sasa Lukic is struggling with a groin injury and he is rated as doubtful. Ryan Sessegnon and Rodrigo Muniz are definitely sidelined with injuries.

As I already wrote, Nottingham Forest have 18 points and they are on the17th place, just outside the drop zone. It is clear they are deeply involved into the relegation battle and every point is very important. Still, one question need to be answered - how Forest transformed from a team chasing the Champions League spot last season into a team fighting against relegation? Well, the answer have a name, Nuno Espirito Santo. He was manager last season, but owner Marinakis decided to replace him with Postecoglou. The Australian tactician was also sacked after a series of defeats, so the former Barnley boss Sean Dyche became the third manager of the season. The results have been improved, but there is no space for any relaxation. Dyche is also impacted by the AFCON. He will be without one of last week's heroes, Ivory Coast midfielder Sangare. His compatriot Willy Boly is also with the national team, though his absence is not a big problem. In addition, six players are struggling with injuries. Chris Wood, Ola Aina and Ryan Yates are guaranteed absentees, while Taiwo Awoniyi, Nicolas Dominguez and Matz Sels doubtful.

Fulham vs Nottingham Forest Prediction:

I think Nottingham Forest won't lose at Craven Cottage. They are in good form and the players confidence is high after winning six of their last eight matches in all tournaments under Dyche. But the key reason for my pick is connect with the AFCON. Three very important players - Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze - are on international duty, while Sasa Lukic is struggling with a groin injury. Marco Silva is without midfield and that's a big problem.

Fulham vs Nottingham Forest Pick: Nottingham Forest +0.5 AH @ 1.57 with Pinnacle

 

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Manchester United vs Newcastle United Preview (Friday, 26.12.2025) Premier League:

Possible starting lineups:

Manchester United:
Lammens; Yoro, Heaven, Shaw; Dalot, Casemiro, Ugarte, Dorgu; Cunha, Mount; Sesko

Newcastle United:
Ramsdale; Miley, Thiaw, Schar, Hall; Bruno Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton; Murphy, Woltemade, Gordon

Manchester United will welcome Newcastle United to Old Trafford on Friday night. The Red Devils are far from desired results, though they are improved under Ruben Amorim, at least that's my opinion. What is the biggest problem for Amorim and his players, that's inconsistency. The current form is poor, one draw and one defeat on the last two matches. The match against Bournemouth showed big defensive issues, the Red Devils have scored four goals, but also conceded four. The defeat to Aston Villa last weekend showed they are not competitive without Bryan Mbeumo. He is currently Manchester United's top goalscorer in the Premier League this season with six goals. Mbeumo played and started in all of Man United's 16 Premier League matches this season. His absence is a huge handicap, he is simply irreplaceable. But there is even bigger problem, captain Bruno Fernandes is sidelined due to hamstring injury. The Portuguese international has 12 goals to his name (scored 5 and assisted 7) and he is the main creative in the team. Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui are also on international duty at AFCON. Finally, Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire are struggling with injuries.

Newcastle were excellent against Chelsea in the previous round and everything looked ideal after the first half. The Magpies had a 2:0 lead at halftime thanks to Nick Woltemade's brace. Nevertheless, they conceded twice in the second half and dropped two points. Manager Edie Howe was disappointed, while the atmosphere in the squad isn't good. The mentioned draw came after the derby defeat against Sunderland. One goal decided the North East derby and the scorer was again Woltemade - but in the wrong net. One point from the possible six made the things more complicated. Newcastle currently sit on the 11th place with 23 points. They are six points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea and the next period will be crucial for their ambitions. A good result from Old Trafford will be very helpful in that direction. The Champions League campaign will continue on 20 January next year, so Howe could be fully focused on the Premier League in the meantime. The injury list have six names: Dan Burn, Emil Krafth, Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier, Sven Botman and William Osula. Finally, Joelinton is struggling with a groin injury, but the last news from the medical department are optimistic.

Manchester United vs Newcastle United Prediction:

Both teams are in poor form at the moment as both teams have one draw and one defeat on the last two matches in the Premier League. Manchester United have the home advantage, but I will give some advantage to Newcastle. The main reason for my pick is connect with the absentee list of both teams. Howe will be missing more players, but Amorim will be without two key players - Bruno Fernandes and Bryam Mbeumo. The first is responsible for 12 goals, the second has 7 to his name. Both players are irreplaceable and their absence will determine the outcome of this match. I think Newcastle will remain unbeaten at Old Trafford.

Manchester United vs Newcastle United

Pick: Newcastle +0.5 AH

Odds 1.56 (Decimal); -179 (American); 9/16 (Fractional)

Bookmaker: Pinnacle

 

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Liverpool vs Wolverhampton Preview (Saturday, 27.12.2025) Premier League:

Possible starting lineups:

Liverpool:
Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Jones; Wirtz, MacAllister, Chiesa, Ekitike

Wolverhampton:
Johnstone; Mosquera, Krejci, Bueno; Hoever, Gomes, Andrej, Lopez, Wolfe; Hee-Chan, Larsen

On paper, this should be an easy victory for the home side, but in reality is different. Liverpool have big problems in the last period. The Reds are very inconsistent and already lost three matches at Anfield. The defeats came from teams like Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace and PSV in three competitions - Premier League, Carabao Cup and UEFA Champions League. Against all odds, Liverpool managed to beat "Big names" like Arsenal, Aston Villa, Inter Milan, Real and Atletico Madrid, What is important to be mentioned, the Reds are unbeaten in the last six matches across all competitions, winning four of them. The current form is solid, but Arne Slot now have lot off unavailable players. Mohamed Salah are on international duty with Egypt, while Dominic Szoboszlai will serve a one-game suspension for accumulated yellow cards. Alexander Isak broke his fibula and suffered extensive damage to his ankle during Saturday’s match against Tottenham which forced him to undergo surgery on Monday. I don't expect to play again this season. Conor Bradley and Cody Gakpo are rated as doubtful, while Joe Gomez, Wataru Endo and Giovanni Leone are definitely out.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are the worst side in the Premier League. They are sitting at the bottom of the table with just two points from 17 games. The Wolves are probably the worst team in all European leagues. The atmosphere in the squad is poor, while the players confidence is low. Their problems continued against Brentford last weekend as they suffered a 10th straight league defeat. Previously they were close to produce the biggest surprise this season when scored an equalizer in the finish of the match against Arsenal at the Emirates. However, Wolves were unlucky to concede another goal in the stoppage time for a narrow 2:1 win. Wolves attack is the league’s weakest with just 9 goals scored. Manager Rob Edwards is under big pressure and it is hard to predict his destiny. The absence of player leader is a huge problem for him, and Wolverhampton have no leader since Cunha left the club and signed for Manchester United. The injury list is between the reasons for the bad results. Dan Bentley, Rodrigo Gomes, Marshall Munetsi and Jean-Ricner Bellegarde are all sidelined through injury. To be worse, Tawanda Chirewa and Emmanuel Agbadou are in Morocco on Africa Cup of Nations.

Liverpool vs Wolverhampton Prediction:

The reigning Premier League champions Liverpool will welcome the bottom-placed Wolverhampton to Anfield on Saturday. There are no easy games in the Premier League. On top of that, Liverpool have big problems in the last period. And the problems came not against "Big names" like Arsenal, Aston Villa, Inter Milan, Real and Atletico Madrid, but against teams like Nottingham, PSV, Crystal Palace etc. The last three have scored a total of 10 goals at Anfield in various competitions. That is why I am not expecting a clean sheet for Alisson. Wolves were able to score against Arsenal at the Emirates, so why not at Anfield. According to the last news, Ibrahima Konate skipped the Thursday training and his absence will be a huge problem for Slot. Not because Konate was good, but because Slot has only Virgil van Dijk available on that position, plus the 19-year-old Wellity Lucky.

Liverpool vs Wolverhampton Pick: Both teams to score - Yes

Odds: 2.00 (Decimal) +100 (American) 1/1 (Franctional)

Bookmaker: Bet365