Michael Owen: Merseyside Derby Could be a Classic

This is the most anticipated Merseyside Derby in many a year. Who would’ve predicted out of the two sides that it would be Everton that go into the match with a 100% record? They have had some start, while Liverpool have had two weeks to lick their wounds after their 7-2 loss to Aston Villa. Will we see reaction? I think so. This could be a classic, and I’m taking the Reds to edge it in a close run match.

Chelsea are starting to click. Their 4-0 win against Crystal Palace two weeks ago was their best performance of the season so far, and I fear a bit for goal-shy Southampton here. I expect the Blues to have too much fire power, and despite lingering concerns regarding their back-line, I fancy them to take the points.

The glamour fixture on Sunday is at the Etihad. Arsenal make the visit to Manchester with their tails up. It’s been a pretty solid start from the Gunners, and they will go here with high hopes of taking something. City simply need to pick up, and back on home soil I can see Pep rallying his troops to claim the points.

Newcastle will be more than happy with their start to their campaign. A 3-1 victory at home to Burnley was a solid enough performance, and I think the Magpies will quietly fancy their chances here. United come into this in disarray. The result against Tottenham won’t be forgotten quickly and I think it may take a few weeks yet for United to find their feet. I’m going for a draw.

Both these sides are looking to register their first points of the season but both are struggling in front of goal. However, I think the international break will have provided much needed respite for both clubs and if Sheffield United can recapture the rhythm they had last season, I think they could take the points.

Palace welcome Brighton after suffering a 4-0 loss away at Chelsea two weeks ago. Brighton have been great to watch this season and they probably should have more points on the board. That lack of cutting edge is a slight concern, so I’m siding with the draw in this one.

Both clubs go into the London Derby off the back of huge away wins in the Premier League. I think this will be close. When they put it all together, West Ham are a dangerous side. Spurs will have to be cautious of getting hit on the break and I could see both scoring here with a draw the most likely result.

Leicester have experienced highs and lows over the last few weeks. As great as their victory away at Manchester City was, they were toothless and lacked ideas in their 3-0 defeat at home to West Ham. Villa will still be on high after what will go down as a famous win against Liverpool. I think goals will be on the menu here with both sides playing out a draw

West Brom entertain Burnley in what promises to be a tight match. Both sides have struggled this season so far, and as early in the campaign as it is, this goes down as a 6 pointer. Sean Dyche has a history of grinding out results in these types of fixtures, and I reckon his Burnley side could nick it.

Leeds have been a joy to watch going forward this season. However, they must be applauded for a great defensive display against City two weeks ago. Wolves arrive having had an indifferent start to their campaign. They haven’t quite hit their stride yet, and I can see in-form Leeds taking full advantage.