Premier League Matchday 10 Preview
The tenth set of Premier League matches take place this weekend, with title-chasing Arsenal featuring in the first contest - a 12.30pm Saturday meeting with Newcastle United at St James' Park.
The champions, Manchester City, are in action later on Saturday, visiting Bournemouth for a 3pm kick-off, while Liverpool host Brighton at the same time.
There are a number of other intriguing clashes across Saturday, Sunday and Monday, and we have picked out the best bets for the weekend’s Premier League action.
Tip 1 – Manchester City/Manchester City half-time/full-time v Bournemouth @ 5/4
Manchester City were always more focused on their Premier League trip to Bournemouth than they were the Wednesday-night EFL Cup mission at Tottenham - and Pep Guardiola's side can be fancied to get back to winning ways on Saturday.
City took over from Liverpool at the top of the Premier League last weekend. Guardiola's men have won the last four Premier League titles and, despite a lengthy injury list, appear well set to continue their success.
Guardiola played a weakened side at Tottenham and City were eliminated from the EFL Cup, but the fully focused visitors can take three points from the Vitality Stadium by outclassing their hosts. Expect City to be leading at half-time and full-time.
Tip 2 – Wolves to beat Crystal Palace @ 8/5
Wolves fans and players alike were thrilled to snatch a dramatic point from Brighton last Saturday, scoring two last-gasp goals at the AmEx Stadium, and the belief gained from that gutsy comeback can see them beat Crystal Palace in Saturday’s evening start.
Wolves have played some good football this season, despite their lowly league position, and extra energy may be the key to them defeating Palace.
It seems a significant advantage for Wolves that they have not played since last Saturday, while Palace visited Villa in the EFL Cup on Wednesday. Given how evenly matched Wolves and Palace are, fresher legs may prove the difference.
Tip 3 – Over 3.5 goals in Tottenham v Aston Villa @ 23/20
The Tottenham camp is buzzing after they progressed past Manchester City in the EFL Cup on Wednesday night - a huge result for under-fire manager Ange Postecoglou. The outspoken Spurs chief has said he "always" wins a trophy in his second season in charge at a club.
Spurs have won five consecutive home games in all competitions, so should start on the front foot against Aston Villa on Sunday.
Gung-ho coach Postecoglou will be gunning for all three points, while Villa will also be targeting victory to keep pace with the title contenders. Expect a high-scoring game.
Tip 4 – Chelsea to beat Manchester United @ 8/5
Manchester United won 5-2 at home to Leicester in the EFL Cup on Wednesday night, but Chelsea should provide much stiffer opposition on Sunday.
United appear in limbo, waiting for potential new manager Ruben Amorim to be released from Sporting Lisbon, so Ruud van Nistelrooy will remain in caretaker charge.
Chelsea have settled nicely under Enzo Maresca and Cole Palmer has established himself as the best player in the Premier League. The Blues have scored 11 goals away from home in the league this season.