Premier League Preview

It has been quite an opening week in the Premiership. Last weekend Liverpool were written off by most followers and United were on course for a fourth title. Then Robbie Blake’s right foot came along and changed everything.

United are in action against Wigan this weekend at the JJB Stadium. Even given their defeat to newly promoted Burnley in midweek one can’t help but see a United victory here although they will have to do without Rio Ferdinand for another few weeks. Alex Ferguson’s side will be focused and ready to bounce back after the humiliation at Turf Moor and this would seem to be the prime time to shine for the likes of Owen and Berbatov.

Liverpool don’t play until Monday when they face up against Aston Villa at Anfield. Given that they were written off after last weekend’s defeat to Spurs you can bet that Rafa Benitez’s men will have a point to prove and will take advantage of Villa’s frail defense. Other title contenders Chelsea take on Fulham on Sunday in a London derby and it will be trickier than it looks for Carlo Ancelotti’s diamond system. Chelsea could just edge it but it will be a tight encounter with Roy Hodgson
desperate to build on last season performance.

Outside title contenders Arsenal are fresh from a win against Celtic in Glasgow on Tuesday and take on Portsmouth at The Emirates. Given Paul Hart’s troubles with Pompy it is difficult to see who can inspire a win or even a solid performance against The Gunners. Eduardo could return to the Arsenal side after missing the Celtic game due to a groin strain.

Finally to new boys Burnley who take on Everton after their historic 1-0 against United. However it is unlikely that Owen Coyle’s will replicate any ‘giant’ killing against an Everton side that won 4-0 in Europa League Qualifying on Thursday.