Premier League Midweek Preview: A Must-Win Manchester Derby

Tottenham v Brighton

Spurs have won all three games played at the new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium without conceding a goal and I expect them to continue that sequence against Brighton even though the Seagulls picked up a terrific point at Molineux on Saturday.

Chris Hughton’s side have failed to score in their last five league games and they look sure to defend deep, and in numbers, against the Champions League semi-finalists. I expect Spurs to eventually break down the Brighton defence although they may have to be patient as they look to cement their place in the top four.

Tip: Spurs to win to nil at

Watford v Southampton

Southampton have only lost one of their last 11 games against Watford, but if there is to be a winner at Vicarage Road I feel it will be the Hornets.

The hosts have conceded in their last eight PL games and I would expect to see goals again midweek with in-form Gerard Deulofeu – 8 goals and 2 assists in his last 9 games – likely to be to the fore again.

Tip: Both teams to score at

Wolves v Arsenal

Wolves have never beaten Arsenal in the Premier League – D2 L7 – and the visitors need to bounce back after their home reverse to Crystal Palace on Sunday.

Wolves were left frustrated by Brighton at the weekend, but the Gunners will play a more expansive game midweek. It is well documented that the hosts have a better record against the top six than the bottom six so far this term and they have kept a clean sheet in three of their last five home games.

I don’t expect to see many goals, but if there is to be a winner at Molineux I feel the hosts will edge it.

Tip: Under 2.5 goals at

Manchester United v Manchester City

City have only lost one of their last seven league visits to Old Trafford but United badly need to bounce back after their abject display at Goodison on Sunday.

All at the club will be hurting after their 4-0 defeat at Everton but they have the ideal opportunity on Wednesday to put the record straight – they certainly cannot play as badly again.

City must do without Kevin de Bruyne – injured against Spurs at the weekend – which is a huge loss for the champions, but I expect to see opportunities and goals at both ends. United are unbeaten in their last 14 home league games but have kept just the two clean sheets in the league this season.

This Manchester derby is a massive game for both teams and one which, I feel, could be pivotal in the destiny of the 2018/19 Premier League title.

Tip: Over 3.5 goals at