Michael Owen: Premier League Midweek Preview

Sam Allardyce secured his first win as West Brom manager in dramatic fashion on Saturday as the Baggies came from behind to defeat rivals Wolves in the Black Country derby. Three goals and three points will come as a welcome sight for the former England manager and he’ll be hoping for more of the same as his side travel to the London Stadium.

West Ham got the win at home against Burnley and made it 3 Premier League clean sheet in a row in the process. There certainly is some solidity about the Hammers just now, and with their much improved home form, I fancy them to take the points again.

This one has the potential to be a cracker. Leicester welcome Chelsea fresh from a winning against a decent, albeit not at full strength, Southampton side.

Chelsea are beginning to pick up again after their slump over the festive period. They were well worth their 1-0 away to Fulham at the weekend and should take confidence from that.

This one could be tight, and I reckon if you were to offer both managers a point just now, they’d probably take it.

Away day specialists Manchester United executed their game plan to perfection at Anfield on Sunday. They could’ve left with all 3 points but overall, they’ll be pleased with the outcome.

They take on a Fulham side that narrowly lost out to Chelsea, however, despite that defeat they have made noticeable improvements over the last month or so.

That said, United are undefeated in their last 16 away matches in the Premier League I cannot see them slipping up here.

Manchester City have hit a rich vein of form. Sunday’s 4-0 win against Crystal Palace was of the type of performance we’ve become accustomed to over the years. Their big hitters all seem to be finding form at the right time which is ominous for the rest of the Premier League.

Villa will arrive here fresh after their calendar was interrupted due to postponements. I think they’ll be happy to give up territory to City in the hope they can sucker-punch them on the counter. As I mentioned, they will have fresh legs, so it’s something that Pep will be planning to nullify I’m sure.

I do believe those tactics could work for Villa to a certain extent; however, City are playing too well just now to be overlooked and I think they’ll notch up another win in their quest for top spot.

Liverpool were left frustrated after the weekends stalemate against Manchester United. No goals in three matches will be concerning for Jurgen Klopp and they face a Burnley side here that we all know should be well organised.

I think the Reds will have to be patient, but I would be surprised if they drew another blank with the talent they have on the pitch.

With that in mind, I’m going for a narrow home win.