Weekend Football Picks and Fantasy Football 2021 (April 30-May 3)

I can't believe I did not get around to posting my Wild Card team last week on Twitter, but in hindsight it probably wasn't a bad thing with some poor decisions coming back to haunt me.

I will have more thoughts on the Fantasy Football game below following my thoughts on the weekend Premier League games to come.

Southampton v Leicester City Pick: It has been nine days since Southampton have last played while Leicester City have played twice in that time and I think that is the only reason I can really provide for thinking that the home team may secure a positive result when these teams meet in the Premier League.

As well as Southampton played earlier this season, in recent months they have struggled in the Premier League for the kind of consistency that would be required.

Leicester City have momentum behind them with 3 straight wins in all competitions at a time when Southampton have lost 3 in a row. They have also gotten the mental advantage of beating Southampton twice in all competitions already this season including the narrow victory over them at Wembley Stadium in the FA Cup Semi Final.

It was a tight win and Southampton showed enough to prove they can be a dangerous team, but defensively there are issues that have not been resolved. Ultimately they give up too many chances and a team in Leicester City's form should be able to take advantage of that.

I would be stunned if we get anything near a 0-9 result that was the outcome of the corresponding fixture last season, but I am not exactly going out on a limb in saying that. Southampton's style should be one that still appeals to Leicester City though as they are unlikely to sit in and that opens them up to the counter attack and the pace Leicester City have.

The Foxes have won 3 in a row at St Mary's and I do think they are capable of adding to that run while taking another giant step towards the Champions League. It will be far from easy, but a narrow away win looks the most likely outcome of this fixture as Leicester City put the pressure on their top four rivals playing later this weekend.

Crystal Palace v Manchester City Pick: The big question this weekend is what kind of team will be selected by Pep Guardiola with the main focus being the Champions League Semi Final Second Leg which is going to be played on Tuesday.

A 10 point lead in the Premier League certainly makes the decision process easier for the manager of Manchester City and I do think some of the key names will be left out to rest and get ready for another tough game against Paris Saint-Germain.

However, this is a deep squad and I do think even a changed Manchester City team can continue getting the better of Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. The home team will have their own motivation questioned, even if they played well at the King Power Stadium on Monday night, while Crystal Palace continue to look vulnerable defensively.

Chelsea exposed that to devastating effect in the 1-4 win here last month, but this one should be more competitive considering the likely changes in the away line up.

Even then, Manchester City should be able to keep the momentum going having won 3 in a row in all competitions and their last 10 away Premier League games. They have scored for fun in those away games, but Manchester City have also been secure defensively which has seen 7 of those 10 victories come by two or more goals.

I would certainly keep an eye out on team news if you are backing Manchester City to win this game on Saturday, but I am taking that into consideration. They have won their last 2 games here by a couple of goal margins and with the likes of Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus in attacking areas, I think they are likely to have the attacking players to keep that trend going through another season.

Crystal Palace did play well in the first half at Leicester City, but they can't seem to keep the back door shut with the amount of defensive injuries being dealt with. That is a major concern when playing Manchester City and the visitors can win and potentially be crowned Champions later this weekend.

Brighton v Leeds United Pick: Two teams that play eye pleasing football meet at the Amex Stadium on Saturday, but I can't help think Brighton look vulnerable as the favourite.

There is no denying the football that Graham Potter's men have been playing and the amount of chances they create, but Brighton continue to show a lack of composure in the final third. It was evident in the defeat to Sheffield United last weekend and Brighton can't afford to be as wasteful against a team like Leeds United.

It might not be as easy for them to create chances in this game either with Leeds United showing a little more resilience of late than they have for much of the season. Marcelo Bielsa is clearly tactically astute enough to know his team needed tightening up, but Leeds United have lost none of their attacking thrust and back to back away wins will give them confidence.

Leeds United do have a terrible record at Brighton which is hard to ignore, but a single goal could be enough to avoid a defeat here. Raphinha's continued absence is a big blow for Leeds United, but they still have enough in the final third to think they can score against Brighton, despite the two home clean sheets The Seagulls have produced in succession.

At some point you do wonder if things will click for Brighton as it did in their 3-0 home win over Newcastle United, but they have won 1 of their last 5 at the Amex Stadium. It is more than being unlucky at this point of the season and Graham Potter will likely be looking to bolster his front line in the summer, but for now Brighton may just struggle to earn more than a point from this fixture.

Chelsea v Fulham Pick: The Chelsea performances under Thomas Tuchel have been more functional than spectacular, but they are picking up result after result and a big season could be in the offing.

The Premier League title race was run by the time Tuchel took over as manager, but he has taken Chelsea to the FA Cup Final and they are favourites to reach the Champions League Final too. The Second Leg of the Champions League Semi Final is to be played during the week and it could be a big distraction, but Chelsea can't fully focus on that at the detriment of their League form.

Unlike Manchester City, Chelsea do not have a considerable advantage when it comes to finishing in the top four of the Premier League. They have recently dropped some silly points at Stamford Bridge which has kept West Ham United and Liverpool interested in breaking into the top four, but Tuchel will not want to offer more encouragement this weekend.

Fulham have proven to be a difficult team to break down away from home, but they have to take more chances now. Scott Parker's team need to win four of their last five Premier League games to have any chance of avoiding relegation and taking risks could leave them exposed to the pace and power Chelsea have in the final third.

It won't be easy and especially if Chelsea were to make some changes to the starting eleven, but this is a team that has been well organised under Thomas Tuchel. They have also been capable of creating chances and even with the changes I expect they will have too much for their West London rivals as they maintain their spot in the top four.

Everton v Aston Villa Pick: There is plenty of strong history behind Aston Villa and Everton and both clubs are chasing a return to being amongst the elite of English Football.

Everton feel much further along than Aston Villa and they have shown a touch more consistency than their visitors, although the most telling factor about these clubs is that they are consistently inconsistent.

The Toffees have been in poor form at home for months, but the 0-1 win at Arsenal should give Everton a real spark. At the same time Aston Villa have just lost their momentum and only a late goal prevented them from being beaten by West Brom last weekend as the clean sheets have dried up.

Losing Jack Grealish has been a big blow for Aston Villa and a healthier looking Everton may just edge to the points here.

It should be competitive and the first goal is going to be huge, but Everton have their best players available for the most part and that should help them. Nothing will come easy, but Everton can earn a vital three points to keep their European ambitions on track through another weekend.

Newcastle United v Arsenal Pick: Both of these teams are close to being involved in dead rubbers in the Premier League with Newcastle United pulling clear of the relegation zone and Arsenal in mid-table and unlikely to be involved in Europe next season without winning the Europa League.

That latter competition is the focus for all associated with Arsenal and the Semi Final Second Leg is going to be played next Thursday with the tie against Villarreal finely balanced. Mikel Arteta can't afford to risk key players in what is ultimately a meaningless Premier League game to the club and it is no surprise that the Arsenal price has been drifting to odds against.

Their own motivation can be questioned, but add the factor of the recent upturn in form produced by Newcastle United and an upset can't be ruled out. Steve Bruce has had a difficult season as manager of the club, but key injuries have been clearing up in attacking areas and that has helped Newcastle United earn 8 points from a possible 12 to pull clear of Fulham in the relegation zone.

There are now 9 points between them and Newcastle United are unbeaten in 5 at St James' Park. One concern is the amount of goals they have been conceding, but Newcastle United have been scoring plenty of goals over the last month and they can earn a positive result against an Arsenal team that may not be fully focused on Sunday afternoon.

Arsenal do have a very good recent record at St James' Park which has to be respected, but Newcastle United can pick something up here. They have created enough chances over the last month to believe they will have the goals to at least produce another point and the spot looks a bad one for Arsenal who have a Europa League Semi Final to overturn during the week.

Manchester United v Liverpool Pick: This game may mean more to Liverpool on the pitch than it does for Manchester United, but the historical rivalry between the clubs means there are plenty of bragging rights up for grabs.

Liverpool may have won the Premier League title last season, but Manchester United could push them out of the Champions League reckoning this time around if they can win this game.

The backdrop will be the protests organised by Manchester United fans which will take place on the forecourt of Old Trafford and it may just have the players feeling the atmosphere of the day that may produce a better game in front of the empty stands than some of these Big Six fixtures have produced so far this season.

Manchester United earned a tough 3-2 win over Liverpool in the FA Cup back in January and I do think the 6-2 win over Roma on Thursday means a strong team can be selected for this one. They will have the attacking pace to really hurt a makeshift Liverpool defence that has continued to look vulnerable in each passing week and Manchester United have scored at least twice in 4 straight at Old Trafford.

However, Liverpool have been creating chances and only poor finishing has been letting them down. They will approach this fixture with an attacking intent in this one as Liverpool chase the win they desperately need, but that may mean this is an open fixture in which chances are created at both ends of the field.

3 of the last 4 between Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford have finished up with less than three goals shared out. However, I think the situation for both teams likely leads to a more open game and one that is closer to the 3-2 FA Cup win for United than the tight affairs we have seen in recent seasons.

This looks like a game that could become very open if there is an early goal and three or more goals may be provided on the day.

Unbelievably Manchester United are the home underdog, but that has more to do with the situation for Liverpool who 'need' the points more than United do.

I think that will tempt enough in to back the home team who have won 5 in a row at Old Trafford, but any win will likely come in a high-scoring game.

Tottenham Hotspur v Sheffield United Pick: Ryan Mason would have heard the criticisms of his team over the last week after a meek surrender to Manchester City in the League Cup Final, but he can still help Tottenham Hotspur produce a strong end to the campaign.

Finishing outside of European competition would be a huge blow for Tottenham Hotspur and would put the pressure on the club to keep some of their big name players. Harry Kane is already wondering whether it is time to search for a new club where he may win trophies and play consistent Champions League Football, while others in the squad need to be shifted too.

It is a difficult time for any new manager taking over at Tottenham Hotspur, but they can get back on track in the Premier League with a win over Sheffield United.

This looks the perfect opponent for Spurs to face considering how badly Sheffield United have travelled for much of the season. The Blades have lost 7 away games in a row in all competitions and they do offer up some big chances to teams they face.

Last weekend it was only poor finishing from Brighton which allowed Sheffield United to get away with a win, but they have to expect better from Tottenham Hotspur. And for all the negatives around Spurs, they have won 6 of their last 7 games here in all competitions and have the players who can put Sheffield United to the sword.

Defensively Tottenham Hotspur are hard to trust, but they should have enough to keep Sheffield United at arm's length and that should be enough for a relatively comfortable home win on the night.

West Brom v Wolves Pick: This may not be one for the neutrals, but the local bragging rights between clubs separated by eleven miles should provide plenty of motivation for West Brom and Wolves.

Over the last month there have been some positive moments from both teams, but it looks to have come too late for West Brom who are almost certainly going to be relegated.

Sam Allardyce will be looking for his team to fight as far as they can though and a win for West Brom will keep them alive for another week as they look for a third win in 5 Premier League games since the March international break. They have been scoring goals for fun in those games, but West Brom continue to look vulnerable at the back.

The attacking side of their game will be encouraging against this Wolves team who just conceded four times to Burnley at Molineux. They have shown a big more solidness in recent weeks, but Wolves don't really control the chances and West Brom may be able to hurt them.

However I would also think West Brom's defence will be tested by Wolves who have scored in 4 of their last 5 away games. They don't create nearly as much as The Baggies have been, but Wolves should be able to have some success here and another high-scoring game could develop.

The last 4 between these clubs at The Hawthorns have finished with fewer than three goals shared out, but there were five goals when these teams met at Molineux. An early goal should get things going and West Brom have to take risks as they look to claw back towards 17th place in the Premier League table and that may leave spaces for the visitors in what could be a decent game all things considered.

Burnley v West Ham United Pick: The recent upturn in form produced by Burnley was finally rewarded with a victory over Wolves last week and the team continue to create chances in their fixtures. It has been important because they have not looked as secure defensively and they are certainly going to be tested by a West Ham United team that are looking to get closer to the top four in the Premier League.

Both teams will be looking to play on the front foot on Monday and that should mean this is a decent watch for those tuning on.

The two teams have been scoring goals frequently, but neither has looked secure at the back and that should mean there are opportunities in the final third for both. An early goal would spark the entire contest, even in the sanitised setting of playing behind closed doors, and there are attacking players on form that can play their part in this fixture.

Burnley would likely accept a point a little more readily than West Ham United, but the latter's need may see the game remain fairly open throughout the ninety minutes.

Goals have been hard to come by at Turf Moor, but the last 5 Premier League games that Burnley have been involved in have seen at least three goals shared out. Before the defeat to Chelsea, West Ham United had been involved in 4 high-scoring League games in a row and I think there will be at least three goals produced in this one too.

MY PICKS: Leicester City - 0.25 Asian Handicap

Manchester City - 1.25 Asian Handicap

Leeds United + 0.5 Asian Handicap

Chelsea - 1 Asian Handicap

Everton - 0.25 Asian Handicap

Newcastle United + 0.5 Asian Handicap

Manchester United-Liverpool Over 2.5 Goals

Tottenham Hotspur - 1.5 Asian Handicap

West Brom-Wolves Over 2.5 Goals

Burnley-West Ham United Over 2.5 Goals

Fantasy Football GameWeek 34

I had plans last Friday which meant I was not able to put up my Wild Card team that was created for the final weeks of the season.

The three Leicester City players and Mohamed Salah were the only good though and the 57 points overall was far below what I would have wanted.

I also made sure I left enough money in the bank to make sure I can upgrade Diogo Jota to Heung-Min Son this week and I will then be hoping to avoid having to make any transfers in GW35, which has become the confirmed double we anticipated.

It also means Man United, Leicester City, Chelsea and Arsenal are going to be blanking in GW36, but I have been prepared for that to be the outcome and that meant I have only picked five players from across those two teams.

However, Everton, Aston Villa, Southampton and Crystal Palace are all going to have doubles in GW35 and will also be playing in GW36 so it will be no surprise that I have five players from across those teams involved in my Wild Card too.

The only reason I want to bring in Son for Jota is the fixtures being played this week and I do wonder if that is overthinking things- Spurs have a tougher game at Leeds United than Liverpool have hosting Southampton in GW35, but I also think Jota's position is a little more unsure than Son's.

I think there is every chance I will bring Diogo Jota back in GW36 when some of the midfielders I have will be blanking, but that is a thought for another day.

And one more thing, I really hate the Friday deadline!

Madrid Masters Tennis Picks 2021 (April 30th)

It was a mixed bag of results on Thursday, but so much is down to the awful collapse Elina Svitolina had in her eventual defeat to Jill Belen Teichmann.

After looking in control at 6-2, 2-0, 30/0, Svitolina blew the second set, but worse was to come.

She was then up 5-1 on serve in the final set and missed four Match Points on her way to failing to see out the match and eventually Elina Svitolina was beaten in the Tie-Breaker.

I need that kind of poor luck to be erased, but there really isn't much more I can do than the research and believe that I am making the right selections. You can't get much closer to covering without covering and the feeling is that eventually I am going to hit a really good patch of form.

I am hoping that begins on Friday as the First Round is completed at the WTA Madrid tournament, while the Quarter Final matches in Estoril and Munich are also set to be played. A busy day is in store and I am looking for some successes to lay the foundations for what is hopefully a much better few days leading into early May and the move to the Rome Masters.

Daria Kasatkina - 3.5 games v Irena-Camelia Begu: We haven't really seen Daria Kasatkina kick on in her career in the manner many would have expected of her and the next few weeks are going to be important to earn some solid World Ranking points. At almost 24 years old, I do think Daria Kasatkina should have been much higher than her current Number 37 World Ranking, especially as the Russian cracked the top ten back in October 2018.

This is only the second clay court tournament that Kasatkina is playing in 2021, but she has long been very comfortable on the surface where her return can be a huge weapon for her. The serve is a vulnerable one that can be attacked by opponents, but Daria Kasatkina may not be too worried about this match up with the Qualifier Irena-Camelia Begu.

Winning two matches to earn a spot in the main draw will give Begu some confidence, especially in what has been a mixed season for her as she has fallen down to Number 75 in the World Rankings. Irena-Camelia Begu has long favoured playing on the clay courts which makes her a test, but the head to head with Daria Kasatkina is one that will have the Romanian a little nervy despite the two wins produced in Madrid.

The faster clay court may actually benefit Irena-Camelia Begu too, which is encouraging, but she has lost seven of eight matches against this opponent and that includes six in a row with just a single set won in that stretch. It has been a couple of years since these two met on the red dirt in Rome, but Daria Kasatkina has won the last three matches between them on the clay courts and Begu has not really been able to get into the return games as well as she would have liked.

I have to say that Irena-Camelia Begu is a pretty steady clay court player and any off day from Daria Kasatkina will be punished. However, the level that Kasatkina is able to produce on this surface may be too much for Begu to stick with and in their head to heads that has tended to be the case as I look for the Russian player to come through with a cover of a wide enough spread mark.

Anett Kontaveit - 4.5 games v Nina Stojanovic: Qualifiers can be very dangerous in the early Rounds of any tournament they enter the main draw and Nina Stojanovic has to be respected with two wins behind her in Madrid. This is the first clay court tournament she will have played this season, but it has been a good year in general which saw Stojanovic reach a career best World Ranking last month.

The 24 year old was in good form in her two Qualifying wins and that will make Stojanovic dangerous in this First Round match and especially if Anett Kontaveit is not as focused as she should be. That is one of the main complaints about Kontaveit who can blow hot and cold within matches and tournaments, but a good week in Stuttgart has been put in the books and the Estonian is comfortable on the clay courts.

One of the areas that continues to let Kontaveit down is the return of serve and she has to find a way to put more pressure on Nina Stojanovic if she is going to break down her lower Ranked opponent. There were positive signs out of Anett Kontaveit in Stuttgart, but she needs to build on that if she is going to have the kind of clay court campaign she would like to put in the books.

Anything less than a strong returning day will put Anett Kontaveit under pressure and her opponent does have previous having produced a 5-3 career record against top 100 Ranked players on the clay courts. The second serve has been a weakness for Stojanovic in those matches though and I think that is where Kontaveit has to make sure she is aggressive, but not wasteful when she sees that serve.

On this surface I do think Anett Kontaveit can find the break points to eventually crack through Nina Stojanovic and it may come with enough time to win and cover. Their sole previous meeting is largely irrelevant as it came back in 2017 when Nina Stojanovic was much younger and inexperienced, but even at this stage of their careers I do think Anett Kontaveit may have a touch too much for Nina Stojanovic.

Simona Halep - 5.5 games v Sara Sorribes Tormo: This has already been a memorable season for Sara Sorribes Tormo who reached a career best Singles World Ranking earlier this week, and it could potentially only get better for the Spaniard. She has long seen the clay courts as her best surface and can pile up the World Ranking points over the next month, although I think Sorribes Tormo will be the first to admit she would prefer a kinder draw than the one she has been given in the First Round in Madrid.

It is a home tournament and that is going to provide plenty of motivation for Sara Sorribes Tormo, but Simona Halep will be heading into the French Open as one of the favourites to win that title again.

A Semi Final run in Stuttgart will have shown that Simona Halep is feeling in pretty good form and she is a former winner in Madrid so the faster conditions at this tournament is not a major concern. In recent years you could argue that Halep has been the most consistent clay courter on the WTA side of the Tour and her numbers have been very impressive, especially on the return of serve.

I think that return of serve is going to be key in this match against an opponent whose returning game is much stronger than her serving one. However, I think it would be wrong to suggest that Simona Halep has as weak a serve as the one Sara Sorribes Tormo will be bringing to the court and that is where the top ten Ranked player will likely dominate the rallies.

If Sorribes Tormo is not able to get enough first serves in play it could be a really tough First Round match for her and she was beaten pretty handily by Simona Halep when these two played on the clay courts last season. That was played at the French Open and Halep created more than double the amount of break points than Sorribes Tormo and I do think she is more likely to be in that position again.

The Spaniard has been in very good form in 2021 and she has to be respected, but Simona Halep should find the breaks of serve to get into a position to cover this spread. It won't be easy if Sara Sorribes Tormo is able to dig in as much as she has throughout 2021, but Simona Halep is one of the top clay courters on the Tour and I think the match up is one that should be appealing to her.

Victoria Azarenka - 2.5 games v Ekaterina Alexandrova: The last twelve months have been important for Victoria Azarenka who needed a Special Entry to play in the clay court tournaments in 2020, but who is back inside the top 20 of the World Rankings now. We haven't seen her since the Miami Masters that began at the end of March, but Victoria Azarenka is someone who has been pretty comfortable on the clay courts.

She will need to find her form pretty quickly as Azarenka has been drawn against Ekaterina Alexandrova in the First Round in Madrid. Last week the Russian won a couple of matches in the tough Stuttgart draw before coming up short against Simona Halep in the Quarter Final, but Alexandrova has been inconsistent on the clay courts throughout her career and we will see how much she has picked up from those wins in Stuttgart.

The return has been an area where Ekaterina Alexandrova has struggled in her clay court matches, but she was serving well last week and that may be important in trying to keep tabs with Victoria Azarenka.

The latter does have a really vulnerable second serve and that is where Alexandrova is going to have to try and take advantage, but Victoria Azarenka is a very good returner on this surface and I think that is where the difference is made on the day. If Azarenka can get enough first serves in play she will likely feel that she has enough to get on top of the rallies and control them.

Both players should have their moments in the match, but Victoria Azarenka is the stronger clay court player even if this is her first match on the surface in 2021. It may take a set to really get her feet underneath her, but Victoria Azarenka should begin to take control against Ekaterina Alexandrova who is not as comfortable on the surface.

I expect the Belarusian's return of serve to prove to be the most important factor in this First Round encounter and it should be enough to see Victoria Azarenka win and get past this spread too.

MY PICKS: Daria Kasatkina - 3.5 Games @ 1.91 Paddy Power (2 Units)

Anett Kontaveit - 4.5 Games @ 1.80 Bet365 (2 Units)

Simona Halep - 5.5 Games @ 1.83 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Victoria Azarenka - 2.5 Games @ 1.83 Bet365 (2 Units)

Saisai Zheng @ 2.05 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Karolina Pliskova - 1.5 Games @ 1.80 Bet365 (2 Units)

Filip Krajinovic - 2.5 Games @ 1.91 Bet Fred (2 Units)

Casper Ruud - 5.5 Games @ 2.10 Paddy Power (2 Units)

Cristian Garin - 3.5 Games @ 2.00 Bet Fred (2 Units)

Albert Ramos - 2.5 Games @ 1.91 Bet Fred (2 Units)

Madrid Update: 2-2, - 0.74 Units (8 Units Staked - 9.25% Yield)

NFL Mock Draft 2021 First Round- Second Edition (April 29th)

It has been a few weeks since my Mock Draft was put together and you can read that here.

Some trades have been made to change the Draft Order since then, but there sounds like the possibility of a lot more moves on the day of the Draft than we have seen in a few years. That is mainly down to the fact that some Quarter Back needy teams are likely going to take the risk to move and grab the player they want, while reports suggest the Miami Dolphins and Philadelphia Eagles, who have both made moves already, are taking calls for their top twelve positions.

With that said you can make a mockery of any Mock Draft, especially in those years when so many teams will be looking to make their moves for the players they have identified.

Anyway, let's get on with it as the NFL Draft fast approaches.

1. Jacksonville Jaguars- Trevor Lawrence: If this is anyone other than Trevor Lawrence going first, you may as well throw the rest of this Mock Draft in the bin.

Nothing has really changed since the end of the season and the Jaguars have their Quarter Back of the future.

2. New York Jets- Zach Wilson: In my initial Mock Draft I had Zach Wilson placed here and it only seems like the Jets have hardened in focusing on this Quarter Back.

Since my first Mock, Sam Darnold has indeed been moved on so a Quarter Back is high on the list of priorities, while the Jets have always seemed to have targeted Wilson in the start of a new era in New York.

3. San Francisco 49ers- Mac Jones: My personal opinion is that Justin Fields would be the absolutely perfect player to plug into Kyle Shanahan's San Francisco Offense, but most rumours around the NFL suggest they have moved up in a trade with the Miami Dolphins to pick up another Quarter Back.

That player sounds like being Mac Jones from Alabama and I do think that is where they go even if I would have chosen Fields instead.

4. Atlanta Falcons- Kyle Pitts: I would love to be wrong about this because this is the player I thought would have been ideal for the Miami Dolphins, but the Atlanta Falcons surely pick Kyle Pitts.

He is a match up nightmare and will give Matt Ryan more Offensive weapons in what is a pivotal season for the veteran. The Falcons could potentially be tempted to move down the Draft order if another team chasing a Quarter Back is desperate to move in here, but I think that is unlikely with Cincinnati and Miami to come (two teams who seem set to go with who they have in that position) and so taking Kyle Pitts becomes a no-brainer.

I had Pitts dropping down as low as Carolina in my First Edition Mock, but his stock is extremely high and I would be surprised if he fell below here.

5. Cincinnati Bengals- Penei Sewell: It might not have been the move many would have been hoping for, but in my First Edition Mock I had Penei Sewell going to the Miami Dolphins at Number 3.

This is an Offensive Tackle that looks like he could have a huge NFL career and you have to protect your young Quarter Backs, something the Cincinnati Bengals were reminded of last season when Joe Burrow was lost for the season.

The Quarter Back himself has been lobbying for Offensive support, but in the skill areas rather than on the Offensive Line. However, in years to come I think Burrow will be extremely grateful for the protection that Sewell will offer.

6. Miami Dolphins- Ja'Marr Chase: He may have sat out in 2020, but this is the Wide Receiver that Joe Burrow would love to see in Cincinnati.

The chips fell that way in my original Mock, but with Penei Sewell available I think the Bengals go that way which leaves the Miami Dolphins with all Wide Receiver options on the table. There is still some suggestion that the Dolphins will look to make another trade down if a Quarter Back needy team is willing to move up, but if not I think Chase edges out Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith despite the Alabama connection with Tua Tagovailoa.

7. Detroit Lions- Jaylen Waddle: Would anyone be surprised if this was a Pick that was traded away by the Detroit Lions on Draft Day? The likes of Denver and New England may be willing so they can bring in the Quarter Back of their choosing, while the Lions can't be hindered by picking up more Draft stock.

For the purposes of this Mock the options for the Lions will be improving the Offensive Line to protect newly acquired Jared Goff or giving him a top Receiving threat with Kenny Golladay moving on to the New York Giants.

Injuries hurt Waddle last season, but he is still seen as the superior Receiver to his team-mate at Alabama DeVonta Smith and I think the Lions take him here if they have not traded down.

8. Carolina Panthers- Rashawn Slater: Since my First Edition Mock Draft, the Carolina Panthers have traded for Sam Darnold and he will likely be given a shot at Quarter Back.

The feeling is that they will give the ex-New York Jet an opportunity and building up the Offensive Line may be the plan considering all Draft Picks were used on the other side of the ball last year.

Rashawn Slater missed all of 2020, but he may still edge out Christian Darrisaw as the second Lineman to come off the board.

This may be a slight reach here so I would not be surprised if the Panthers decide to move down as long as they can pick up one of those two Offensive Linemen when their turn does come around.

9. Denver Broncos- Justin Fields: My initial feeling was that the Denver Broncos were going to pick up a veteran to compete with Drew Lock at Quarter Back, but the new management looking to get this franchise back on track have no real reason to hitch their wagon with the incumbent.

The fact they didn't make the move means I will Mock Justin Fields here.

I am a big fan of Fields and I think he will do really well in the NFL in the right system, but there is every chance another team leapfrogs Denver to make sure they can pick up this Quarter Back.

If he is here, I think the Broncos will pick Fields over Trey Lance as their future franchise Quarter Back.

[UPDATE] Just as this Second Edition was going live the news broke that Teddy Bridgewater has been traded to the Denver Broncos.

It also suggested that a Quarter Back will not be taken here, but I think the Broncos would still go that way and look for that unit to find a break out star. The Broncos could also trade down here now, but I will keep Fields plugged in where he is.

10. Dallas Cowboys- Patrick Surtain II: If any of the top three Offensive Linemen fall down to the Dallas Cowboys it may be hard for them to pass up having had plenty of success by bulking up the Line and then running the ball effectively behind them in the past.

However, Dallas need plenty of support Defensively and Caleb Farley may be the top Corner in the Draft even if he has one or two injury concerns.

Patrick Surtain II was my selection for the Dallas Cowboys in my First Edition which you can read here but in that one Farley was off the board and so I will plug him in here.

Don't be that surprised if the Cowboys trade down either.

[UPDATE] A late editing decision means I am now going to plug in Patrick Surtain II back into this position- there are reports that Farley could be in for a drop with lingering concerns about his injuries and the Cowboys need someone who can step in and contribute immediately. They could go back in for an Offensive Lineman instead, but the Cowboys need Secondary help and Surtain II is the choice

11. New York Giants- Kwity Paye: You can never have too many Wide Receiver options and the Giants may be tempted to go that way, but bringing in Kenny Golladay may make that a secondary concern.

In the recent years when the New York Giants won the Super Bowl they have had a powerful pass rush and they need all the help they can get when trying to bring down the opponent's Quarter Back.

Kwity Paye being here at Number 11 would be impossible to pass up as far as I am concerned and I think the Giants get themselves a player that will work hard to star in the NFL.

12. Philadelphia Eagles- DeVonta Smith: There is talk that the Eagles want to trade back into the top 10 of the NFL Draft after moving down in a swap with the Miami Dolphins.

I am not sure whether they have identified a Wide Receiver they covet more than the others on the board, but for this Mock Draft I have them selecting DeVonta Smith.

Philadelphia will be very happy to be able to Draft Smith here as they look to replace the likes of DeSean Jackson and Alshon Jeffrey, and especially as I had them picking him up in their original Number 6 spot in my First Edition Mock Draft.

13. Los Angeles Chargers- Christian Darrisaw: If things shake up as I have seen them, the Los Angeles Chargers will feel very happy in being able to take one of the top three Offensive Linemen off the board.

Penei Sewell might be the standout, but there isn't much between Rashawn Slater and Christian Darrisaw and I think the Chargers would be happy for either to land here as they look to protect Justin Herbert.

14. Minnesota Vikings- Alijah Vera-Tucker: The Vikings are yet another team that may look to pick up some Draft stock in order to drop down in the First Round, but if they are picking here they have a number of options.

The window looks to be closing for Mike Zimmer and the Vikings and the Head Coach may be keen to see a big Defensive player picked up here.

You wouldn't blame him with the likes of Micah Parsons and Patrick Surtain II around in my Mock Draft, but the Offensive Line also needs key help and Alijah Vera-Tucker has played at Left Tackle. That may be his long-term move in the NFL and he is a key addition for a team that wants to run the ball with the Offense moving through Dalvin Cook.

15. New England Patriots- Micah Parsons: There is a clear feeling that the New England Patriots are primed to move up in the Draft and select one of the Quarter Backs that are expected to be around once the top three teams have selected.

In my Mock Draft that would be Justin Fields or Trey Lance and I think if Bill Belichick is convinced by either the Patriots will move ahead of the Denver Broncos and select him.

If they are sitting at Number 15 in this Mock Draft situation it may be difficult for the Defensive minded Head Coach to ignore the talent of Micah Parsons who has dropped here. Without the move I can't imagine the Patriots will be that bothered about taking Trey Lance and so this looks the right player to Mock here.

However, I would not be surprised at all if a deal with the Carolina Panthers is reached to select at Number 8 on Draft Day.

16. Arizona Cardinals- Caleb Farley: Being able to pick up one of the top Corners in the Draft is a bonus for the Arizona Cardinals who have strengthened the team in the Draft.

They would love for Micah Parsons to somehow slip to this point, but I think it is unlikely with the way the chips fall.

If not, Patrick Surtain II looks a solid selection who will transition into a full time starter at the end of the 2021 season.

[UPDATE] I now have Caleb Farley as the second Corner Back going in the Draft having initially had Patrick Surtain II going here. The Cardinals can perhaps take a chance on Farley, whose own Agent believes he won't drop out of the top 20 despite some suggesting he will miss the First Round, considering they have signed Malcolm Butler to pair with Patrick Peterson for the season.

It will give Farley time to rebuild his strength as he plays as perhaps the third Corner this season and he can be ready to compete full time in 2022.

17. Las Vegas Raiders- Zaven Collins: Mike Mayock and Jon Gruden are unconventional and I think the Raiders have a multitude of options here.

They could move down, they could simply pick the best player left on the board, but I think it would be a surprise if Las Vegas don't want to improve their Defensive unit in a Division alongside Patrick Mahomes.

Zaven Collins may be a reach, but a jack of all trades Linebacker seems like the kind of player that would appeal to the Mayock-Gruden team, although you could throw up ten names here and still be way off the mark in trying to work out what these two will be thinking.

18. Miami Dolphins- Jaelan Phillips: After disappointing Tua Tagovailoa by not picking one of the Alabama Wide Receivers I can make a case for Miami making it up to him by picking Najee Harris here as another skill player for the Offense and the young Quarter Back.

That Draft Pick would not be a massive surprise, but Miami need to find more pass rush support and they can land Jaelan Phillips who made his mark with the Hurricanes in College after a decent, but unspectacular career with the UCLA Bruins.

I think this would be something of a steal for the Dolphins who continue their rebuild through the Draft with a selection on both sides of the ball in the First Round.

Injury concerns are an issue for those teams selecting Phillips though and something the Miami Dolphins will be thinking about.

19. Washington Football Team- Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah: The Football Team would likely be focusing on the Offensive Line first and foremost, but with the top three Linemen gone they will instead use this Pick to boost the Defense.

We all know how good the Defensive Line can be, but Washington had holes further in the unit and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah can have a day one impact for the team.

In my First Edition I had a Lineman dropping into this spot, but the top three look likely to be off the board by the time it gets to Washington in this Second Edition Mock.

20. Chicago Bears- Rashod Bateman: Things seem pretty clear for the Chicago Bears, well as far as I am concerned anyway, and the decision on Draft Day is going to be whether they wish to move up and take one of the two Quarter Backs that is likely to slip in the Draft.

Personally I think there are teams ahead of them who can leapfrog up the order without giving up as much as the Bears would have to and the signing of Andy Dalton would mean they are likely looking to strengthen other areas if they get down to this point and have not moved.

With that in mind I am not going to plug in Trey Lance here and instead I will place Rashod Bateman for the second Mock Draft in a row. Allen Robinson has been re-signed for at least the next season, but Bateman could be a long-term replacement and give Andy Dalton plenty of weapons to target.

Caleb Farley would be another option if he reaches here.

21. Indianapolis Colts- Azeez Ojulari: This is another team that would likely take one of the top three Offensive Linemen if they dropped this far, but again I doubt that happens.

One did drop in my First Edition Mock Draft which can be read here, but even then this looks too far down for the Indianapolis to look at this side of the ball.

Free Agency was the method used to try and rebuild the Line, but in today's NFL the best Defenses are those that can force ample pressure up front to give their Secondary a chance to make plays.

With that in mind Azeez Ojulari may be more ready to come in and make an impact for the Colts immediately than someone like Gregory Rousseau, although I love the potential of the latter.

The Colts feel their window for success is fairly limited as they stand though and they can't really wait for Rousseau to develop into the player he can be and Ojulari is the selection.

22. Tennessee Titans- Jaycee Horn: I had the Tennessee Titans picking a player to rush the Quarter Back in my First Edition Mock Draft, but I think they will find it hard to choose between Tevin Jenkins (Offensive Tackle) and Jaycee Horn (CB) here.

The latter wins out after the amount of huge plays the Titans gave up last season and with Jenkins perhaps a long-term Guard rather than a Tackle which is the position Tennessee are keener in filling.

Jaycee Horn will be able to challenge some of the taller Receivers in the NFL and looks to be the third Corner Back who will be selected in the Draft.

23. New York Jets- Greg Newsome II: With the top three Corner Backs gone, the New York Jets can opt for a number of players here after selecting their future Quarter Back already in the First Round.

However, it feels like most are of the belief that the second First Round Pick will be focusing on the other side of the ball and Greg Newsome II looks the only option unless Caleb Farley drops further than his Agent is anticipating.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers- Najee Harris: James Connor is gone and the Pittsburgh Steelers are in 'win now' mode with Big Ben Roethlisberger returning for at least one more season.

Improving the Offensive Line has to be on the minds of the Coaching staff with key players moving on or retiring, but Najee Harris may be an Offensive weapon that is impossible for the Steelers to ignore.

If not going this route, picking up Tevin Jenkins looks the most likely call.

25. Jacksonville Jaguars- Tevin Jenkins: They have already selected the Quarter Back of the future and there are some decent Offensive weapons for Trevor Lawrence in Jacksonville, at least for the upcoming season.

There are plenty of areas that Urban Meyer can target ahead of his first season as Head Coach in the NFL, but protecting Lawrence has to be key.

Picking up Tevin Jenkins bolsters the Offensive Line and he can slot in at Guard or Tackle.

26. Cleveland Browns- Gregory Rousseau: The Browns did make the PlayOffs last season, but will know they need to improve Defensively to take the next step in their development.

They have some strong pass rushers signed up for the 2021 season, but those are on short-term deals and this looks an ideal spot for Gregory Rousseau to develop in the months ahead and learn behind Myles Garrett and Jadaveon Clowney.

You can never have too many guys that can come in and rush the passer when it comes to the post-season too and the potential of Rousseau has to be exciting enough for the Browns to take the chance here.

27. Baltimore Ravens- Liam Eichenburg: I have little doubt that the Baltimore Ravens will move out of this position, either up or down, but if they do select here they have a number of options.

There are a few areas of improvement required, but the Offensive Line might be the target in the First Round as they look to offer Lamar Jackson more protection.

A Wide Receiver is another route they can go and I was close to placing Kadarius Toney into this spot, while the Ravens need pass rushers.

However, it could feel a reach picking one at Number 27 with some of the top players off the board and I will place a solid Offensive Tackle that can grow into a vital piece for the Ravens for years to come.

28. New Orleans Saints- Terrace Marshall Jr: The Drew Brees era is over in New Orleans, but the Saints are not really in a position to move up and Draft his replacement at the top of the First Round.

I think Justin Fields would intrigue Sean Payton if he was to fall out of the top ten, but the reality is that the Saints will go with Taysom Hill and Jameis Winston this season.

What has become evident is that the Saints need to beef up the Receiving corps with an unhappy Michael Thomas perhaps someone that may look to move on.

Terrace Marshall Jr doesn't have the same kind of standing as his LSU team-mates Ja'Marr Chase or Justin Jefferson, but he can complement Thomas this season and perhaps take over as the Number 1 option in the years to come. With the way the Saints play under Payton, there will be plenty of schemes devised to get Marshall Jr out into space where he can do considerable damage after the catch.

29. Green Bay Packers- Kadarius Toney: The only Jeopardy the Green Bay Packers will be facing over the coming season will be regarding Aaron Rodgers if they are not able to provide Offensive weapons for their future Hall of Fame Quarter Back.

Last season the Packers had a Draft that was rightly questioned, but Rodgers used it as motivation to remind everyone how good he can be.

They still came up short in the PlayOffs and I think a slot Receiver like Kadarius Toney will offer Rodgers another weapon that could open things up further for his connection with Davante Adams.

30. Buffalo Bills- Travis Etienne: I think the Buffalo Bills are going to move out of the First Round as they can surely pick a player they want later in the Draft while adding Draft stock.

The Bills need to improve the pass rush and I am placing Travis Etienne here without really feeling Buffalo will make the selection. It would be a luxury selection at this point of the Draft (they could move down and get Etienne anyway), but the Bills may be hoping one or two of the top pass rushers fall to them here.

31. Kansas City Chiefs- Dillon Radunz: There is little doubt that the Kansas City Chiefs have learned how important their Offensive Line is having come up just a little short in their bid for back to back NFL Championships.

Patrick Mahomes can make all the throws, even under duress, as he showed in the Super Bowl, but giving him as much time as he needs only helps the Chiefs.

Chances are they will move out of the First Round, but either way I expect their first Draft Pick to be on the Offensive Line.

Dillon Radunz could develop into a really solid starter in the NFL and it feels like his style fits in with well with a timing Offense run by the Chiefs, one that loves to run the ball too.

[UPDATE TRADED TO BALTIMORE RAVENS]- So the Orlando Brown trade to the Kansas City Chiefs has landed the Baltimore Ravens with another First Round Pick.

They could easily go with the same player I have placed here for Kansas City as the Ravens rebuild the Offensive Line, but I don't think they will use both First Round Picks they have in the lower reaches of the Round.

If the Baltimore Ravens do select here, I can see Joe Tryon being a potential Draft choice as they try and improve the pass rush on the other side of the ball. The Ravens have more holes in their roster than I would have imagined, but a move out of the First Round would not be a massive surprise.

32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Landon Dickerson: The Tom Brady signing has proved to be the right one for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who became the first team to play a Super Bowl in their home Stadium and ended up winning it all.

There are areas that can still be improved despite the majority of players sticking with the Buccaneers to try and repeat as Champions.

Protecting Brady is always going to be key and plugging in Landon Dickerson looks a risk worth taking despite some concerns about his durability. He has played right across the Offensive Line and that is vital in what is now a seventeen game regular season.

Now there is no reason to doubt that this Mock is going to take a hard left very soon when the real Draft takes place, but that is the case for many.

Teams will trade up and down and there are always surprising selections as teams reach for needs.

I have Trey Lance falling out of the First Round, but it would not be a massive surprise if one of the teams intrigued by him come back into this Round late and take the Quarter Back. The teams towards the bottom of the First Round are always likely to check out of the Pick, while the NFL Draft always makes for good television because of the uncertainty around it.

It will be fun to watch on Thursday when the First Round is set to take place and further Rounds will come through the weekend.

And we are now just two weeks away from finding out the 2021 NFL schedule, one that I am hoping it will be possible to attend at some point in the coming months.

Madrid Masters Tennis Picks 2021 (April 29th)

I needed a few days off from the Tennis Picks and wrote that I would be back when the Madrid Masters comes around.

Frustration was getting the better of me with so many selections seemingly ending on the wrong end of every bit of bad luck I could think of. That was only made worse because those were the good selections and I wasn't getting any luck by getting away with the bad selections.

That adds up in a negative spiral and that is when taking a step back and looking for things to be reset is the best policy and especially in a long Tennis season.

The WTA side of the Madrid Masters begins on Thursday and I am looking for a positive start to the tournament which can give me something to build upon.

2021 has not been a very good season to this point, but things can turn around quickly and I am just looking for a touch more fortune behind the Tennis Picks.

I will update the Season Totals and place that down in either the Friday or the Saturday thread for the Tennis Picks, but hopefully there will be some positive signs immediately out of this tournament.

Elina Svitolina - 4.5 games v Jill Belen Teichmann: A tight loss in the Stuttgart Semi Final will have offered Elina Svitolina encouragement having played pretty well in a loaded tournament. The clay courts may not be her favourite surface, but the Ukrainian is pretty effective on all surfaces and she will be looking for a strong run in Madrid.

The clay courts in this City tend to play pretty fast compared with the ones we will see in Rome and Paris in the next few weeks and that is much to do with the altitude which sees players hit through the courts. That may be a problem for Elina Svitolina, but she should still have too much for Jill Belen Teichmann who is playing her first clay court match of the season.

Jill Belen Teichmann has been comfortable on the clay courts in the past so she is one player that can't be dismissed easily. However, the last time we saw Teichmann she was withdrawing from a match with an injury and it was a difficult match up for her against Elina Svitolina when these two met on the clay courts in Strasbourg in 2020.

Now she is going up against an Elina Svitolina who has been serving pretty well in her limited time on the clay and one who can exert plenty of pressure with her return. That side of her game looked in good shape in Stuttgart and was the key in Svitolina's wins over Angelique Kerber and Petra Kvitova and this is a match that is largely a step down from that kind of level.

When these two played in Strasbourg, it was Elina Svitolina who more than doubled the amount of break points created than Jill Belen Teichmann. I expect it is going to be a key part of this First Round match in Madrid too and I think Svitolina can get the better of things which will give her every chance to cover what looks a big mark.

It can be hard to trust Elina Svitolina who can play hot and cold within a match, but her World Ranking has largely come about thanks to her ability to win matches like this one. I would expect Jill Belen Teichmann to have her moments, but a lack of recent competitive tennis could go against her in this opener in Madrid.

Laura Siegemund - 3.5 games v Kateryna Kozlova: Two Qualifiers have the chance to pick up some vital World Ranking points when they meet in the First Round in Madrid and both Laura Siegemund and Kateryna Kozlova have to be confident in their chances. Both were pretty dominant winners in their opening two matches in Madrid, although Kozlova came through with consecutive straight sets wins compared with Siegemund who needed three sets in her Second Qualifying Round match.

That extra set meant Laura Siegemund had to spend an extra thirty minutes on the court winning that match, but I don't expect it will be too much of an issue with this First Round match scheduled for the afternoon. It should mean there is enough recovery time for a player who has been confident on the clay courts throughout her career and who will be expecting to put up plenty of wins in the weeks ahead.

Laura Siegemund was beaten by Ashleigh Barty in the Second Round in Stuttgart, a tournament she has won before, but that is not a loss that will hurt the confidence. The German should also take heart from the fact that Barty went on and won the tournament and Siegemund is someone who has consistently had decent numbers on the clay.

That consistency was on display in her two Qualifying wins, while Kateryna Kozlova has only recently returned to competitive action having been off the Tour since the French Open last September. Unsurprisingly it has been a relatively low-key return to the Tour for the Ukrainian, but Kozlova has previously reached the Third Round in Madrid having Qualified for the tournament when doing that in 2019.

However, it should be noted that Kateryna Kozlova has not shown nearly the same kind of level on the clay courts on a consistent basis as Laura Siegemund has.

Laura Siegemund has also won the last three matches between these players and two of those were on clay courts as the former dominated the break point chances and eventually secured two easy looking wins on the scoreboard. The faster clay courts should make Kateryna Kozlova a little more dangerous, but Siegemund has enjoyed the match up and I think she is looking in good enough nick to find a win and a cover.

Ana Bogdan + 2.5 games v Anastasija Sevastova: Two more Qualifiers are perhaps feeling happy with a draw that sees them take on another Qualifier and the chance to put some World Ranking points on the board they may not have otherwise earned. The time that Ana Bogdan has spent on the court compared with Anastasija Sevastova might be a concern, but the younger player has a winning record against Sevastova and Ana Bogdan has always made life difficult for her too.

They have twice met on the clay courts and split those matches 1-1, while a couple of months ago Ana Bogdan beat Anastasija Sevastova on the hard courts in Australia in preparation for the first Grand Slam of the 2021 season. The first of the clay court matches was dominated by Bogdan, but the more recent one saw Sevastova come through a tough three setter and I believe this one is going to be another competitive First Round match.

Over the last couple of years Ana Bogdan has shown she has all of the tennis needed to be a solid clay court player and she had a good run in Istanbul already this season. The numbers have backed that up, although Bogdan would love to get a little more out of the serve so her return can really take over matches.

Anastasija Sevastova is a solid clay courter in her own right and she is a former Madrid Semi Finalist which has to be respected, but her form over the last year has been inconsistent to say the least. Two Qualifier wins will have given Sevastova confidence, but the Latvian has been beaten by Caty Mcnally on the surface this season and I do think she is a vulnerable favourite here.

The serve has been a touch more reliable than Ana Bogdan's serve and that may be important, although I do think the latter is the better returner. The four matches played by Sevastova this season has seen her return looking in good shape, but it is a small sample and I do think Ana Bogdan has shown more consistency on that side of her game.

This one going three sets will not be a big surprise, but I do think Ana Bogdan can edge past her higher Ranked opponent. She should hold the mental edge and I think Bogdan might just be the superior clay courter of the two at this stage of their careers.

MY PICKS: Elina Svitolina - 4.5 Games @ 1.80 Bet Fred (2 Units)

Laura Siegemund - 3.5 Games @ 1.72 Bet365 (2 Units)

Ana Bogdan + 2.5 Games @ 2.00 Paddy Power (2 Units)

Jan-Lennard Struff - 2.5 Games @ 1.91 Paddy Power (2 Units)

Cristian Garin - 4.5 Games @ 2.00 Paddy Power (2 Units)

Weekend Football Picks and Fantasy Football 2021 (April 23-26)

So just what were they thinking?

The 'Big Six' from the Premier League in particular- I can understand the European Super League being attractive to the top Spanish and Italian teams who have long been poorly run and struggling to rub two pennies together, but why on earth would the Premier League clubs want to do this? Ok, guaranteed money for the leech like owners that have arrived from the United States where the owners of all NFL teams are taking a piece of the pie regardless of how they perform on the pitch, but surely someone, somewhere, would have told the organisers that most fans are not going to stand for a closed shop for what are the top teams in this snapshot of time.

Tottenham Hotspur being involved was laughable.

This is the same Tottenham Hotspur who are hoping to snap a thirteen year wait for a trophy on Sunday and who were last League Champions in 1961. Since then the likes of Ipswich Town, Derby County, Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers have all been Champions, while Leicester City have not only been Champions just five years ago, but are above this club in the current Premier League standings having done the same last season.

However, 'it's Tottenham lads' so I am not too fussed about how they blagged their way into the 'elite'.

As a Manchester United I am disgusted with my club, but for the first time the rest of England and Europe can see what we have long been telling anyone that listens- the Glazers could not give a damn for anything but the bottom line and all they care about is stripping Manchester United of as much as they can.

I would say it is hard for those people to ever sit foot inside Old Trafford again, but they don't anyway and I think it would only be fitting that they die on this hill and have to sell the club.

I doubt that happens right now, but I am hopeful that the fans get behind the common cause and at least have co-ordinated efforts to really rally together and show the entire world what kind of power the 'legacy fans' have.

A serious punishment is unlikely to be forthcoming, because the Premier League and UEFA need Manchester United arguably more than the other way around, but I don't care if they can find a way to throw the book at them. Maybe that would be the spark for the ridiculous owners to move on and find something else to ruin, but I won't be holding my breath before the next set of television rights come around next year.

The Super League idea might be over for now, but I have little doubt that something else will crop up sooner than later. The hope is that this whole palaver is going to inspire real changes as to the power of the fans and how their wishes have to be considered first and foremost rather than the amount of money that can be siphoned away by the owners hiding behind the 'good of all football' rhetoric that Florentino Perez has been trying to promote.

My only hope is by that time the American owners in particularly have been ousted in England and any new owner will understand our game and our culture much better than those currently in charge.

Arsenal v Everton Pick: If plans had come to fruition like the Big Six of the Premier League wanted, Arsenal would be secure in their 9th place knowing they were going to be a part of the Super League next time around regardless of their final position domestically.

That seems so far against what we are used to seeing as football fans and it is no surprise the Super League has been consigned to the history books (for now) and the importance of this Premier League game is not lost on two powerful English clubs.

Neither Arsenal nor Everton are having the season they would have liked, but the latter are showing more progress. Carlo Ancelotti has long targeted a place in European competition, but he will be highly frustrated that Everton are not much closer to the top four places after dropping some very poor points in recent weeks.

Time is running out for Everton, but a win would be a huge boost on a weekend when West Ham United host Chelsea and Everton would push back into the top seven with a victory. Injuries have hurt them, but Everton could have some key figures back for this game while Arsenal are the ones that may be without some important players like Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

With an upcoming Europa League Semi Final, Mikel Arteta may not want to risk any player with knocks and that should give Everton a chance. However, Arsenal have been creating chances and I think they will cause problems for an Everton team that have been struggling to contain opponents.

However, I also think Everton can make chances here and this may be another one of the higher-scoring Premier League games that have been evident since the March international break. They haven't scored in their last couple of away Premier League games, but Everton might be facing a weakened Arsenal team and they have to know how important it is to win this game which could leave the fixture as an open one.

In the last couple of Premier League meetings between Arsenal and Everton an early goal has opened things up and I think that could be the case here.

Liverpool v Newcastle United Pick: The importance of this fixture has increased for Liverpool over Newcastle United when a couple of weeks ago you could have suggested it will be the other way around at kick off.

In that time Newcastle United have won a couple of Premier League games and moved clear of the bottom three, while Liverpool have got back in the mix for the Champions League places. Moving clear means the pressure is off Newcastle United, which could make them dangerous, but they also lost Allan Saint-Maximin to injury and his absence this weekend would be a big blow.

Liverpool dropped two more League points on Monday evening after a day of being dragged through the mud for their horrible decision to join a closed shop European Super League. The fans made their feelings clear and it would have affected the players who have come out in solidarity with their supporters in deriding the new competition which the Big Six and some top European clubs were keen on exploring.

Jurgen Klopp was visibly irritated by the questions he had to face and mainly because he had been blindsided by the decision of those above him at the club. Instead of facing up to their decisions, the manager had to stand in front of the press and the hope for Liverpool is that their subsequent withdrawal will allow the players to focus.

They are still in reach of making the Champions League on sporting merit and a win would move The Reds into the top four. The poor run at Anfield in the Premier League was ended in Liverpool's last game here though and having a week to prepare for this fixture is very important for the squad and especially as they should be very keen to remind the supporters that they are behind them with a strong performance, even in front of the empty stands.

Liverpool probably have the right opponent to be honest and I think they are going to be too much for Newcastle United to handle if playing anywhere near the level they found in the first half at Elland Road on Monday. With the wins under their belt to ease relegation worries, Newcastle United could potentially fold with the amount of chances they have been giving up defensively of late and I think that shows up here.

A poor record at Anfield doesn't help and I think Liverpool likely win by a couple of goals on the day.

West Ham United v Chelsea Pick: With six Premier League games to be played, this is a huge fixture between Chelsea and West Ham United on Saturday afternoon.

In another dimension it means nothing to Chelsea who have secured a spot in the European Super League regardless, but in this one The Blues are hanging onto a Champions League spot via a top four finish in the Premier League. They are only above West Ham United on goal difference and the winning team will certainly feel they have the momentum.

West Ham United have a decent home record against Chelsea in recent seasons, but they are under pressure having lost 3-2 at Newcastle United last weekend. They are back at home where they have won 4 of their last 5 Premier League games, but West Ham United's underlying numbers have not made for good reading and the feeling I have is that the bubble may have burst last week (pardon the pun).

Defensively they are allowing too many chances and this week West Ham United are without Craig Dawson and potentially without Arthur Masuaku and Aaron Cresswell. They have been reliant on special finishing, but Chelsea are not a team that offer up a lot of chances and I think that is where the visitors have an edge.

The squad looks healthier, even while managing a heavy schedule, and I think there will be a sense of freedom from the pressures that have been created by their owner with the Super League news. Now that has been put to bed, at this moment anyway, I think Chelsea have the quality in the final third to earn a big away win which will make them favourites for a top four finish.

Granted they have not enjoyed much success in this Stadium in recent visits, but Thomas Tuchel's men are not likely to give a lot away and I think that is the difference. While West Ham United have impressed, they are a team that have been fortunate to win a couple of their games of late and last week that deserted them in their defeat to Newcastle United.

I expect the Chelsea attacking quality to shine through and help earn the victory on the day, a big one ahead of the Champions League Semi Final with Real Madrid.

Sheffield United v Brighton Pick: The likes of Sheffield United, West Brom and Fulham have not really put the pressure on their relegation rivals as they would have wanted and it may be too late for them now.

It is definitely too late for The Blades who return to the Championship after spending two seasons in the Premier League and there is some considerable work to be done at the club. A new manager is needed and some changes to the squad may also be required as Sheffield United begin to prepare for how they can challenge for promotion next time around.

The players have absolutely given their all, but some poor transfer decisions have proved to be costly. The lack of goals has not been fixed and losing Dean Henderson meant the clean sheets were not as forthcoming as last season.

Those disguised the problems in the final third and ultimately Sheffield United have paid for the lack of goals.

Brighton have not been picking up too many wins, but draws with Everton and Chelsea keep the points ticking along and a victory on Saturday night will almost certainly mean they are safe from the drop. They are already 7 points clear of Fulham, but to make that 10 points with just five League games left should be enough for Brighton to secure top flight football again.

They are a team who create chances, although Graham Potter has to be looking for a striker who can put away some of those opportunities next season. I expect Brighton to be able to do the same here and they are secure enough at the back to believe they can keep their hosts at arm's length in a narrow victory.

It is hard to trust Brighton because of their ability to miss so many chances, but they should be able to break down a Sheffield United door which has been left ajar far too often this season. The Blades lack of a cutting edge is a concern for them and I think Brighton will likely win a relatively low-scoring game.

Wolves v Burnley Pick: If there is one thing I have learnt over the last couple of seasons it is that it is almost impossible to pick a Wolves game with any real confidence.

With little left to play for, I do think they are still likely to maintain the momentum they have picked up over the last couple of weeks, but Wolves still look plenty short to win this game.

Burnley are a team that will offer up chances, but they continue to find results when you least expect it and it took two late goals to help Manchester United get past this opponent last week.

The first goal feels like it is going to be huge, but I would not be that surprised if it ended goalless too. And I have no real conviction as to which of these teams will score first which makes this a game that will be one that I can afford to move past without taking much of a backwards glance.

I wouldn't even call this one as important for the neutrals, but Burnley's motivation is a touch higher and that could be enough to earn a result here.

Leeds United v Manchester United Pick: This might not appeal to the 'fans of the future' but for us 'legacy fans' Leeds United versus Manchester United is the kind of rivalry fixture that gets the juices flowing.

It has been a long wait for these two rivals to meet at Elland Road in the Premier League and the only shame is that the stands will not be packed to the rafters. The atmosphere, which has helped create the Premier League into the monster viewing event it has become around the world, will be missing, but both Leeds United and Manchester United should entertain those tuning in.

Marcelo Bielsa's Leeds United will play their usual way and they continue to rattle the cages of the top sides by getting amongst them and attacking with pace and power. On another day they would have beaten Liverpool in the 1-1 draw on Monday night, but Leeds United will go again and they will certainly believe they can hurt a Manchester United team that have conceded in each of their last 3 Premier League games.

That has not stopped them winning games though and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be very much aware of the rivalry so I expect Manchester United to be focused despite the upcoming Europa League Semi Final against Roma later this week. Manchester United have won 4 of their last 5 away games in all competitions, but they give up as many chances as they create and I think that will be the key to the way this fixture develops.

The playing surface at Elland Road has not been the best and is likely going to be replaced in the summer, and that has perhaps been the main reason that 3 of the last 4 Premier League games have ended with two or fewer goals shared out. However, it was only fantastic saves that prevented there being more goals in the 1-1 draw with Liverpool on Monday and both Leeds United and Manchester United are unlikely to sit back in this one.

An early goal really will fire up the fixture, although the fans are going to be a big miss.

This may not appeal to those watching from afar, but the Yorkshire and Lancashire rivals are going to be very keen to impose themselves on the other and I think an early goal will see something of a shoot out develop.

Aston Villa v West Brom Pick: It is very hard to trust Aston Villa at this stage of the season considering their recent form and the likelihood that there is very little left for the squad to play for.

A poor run means Europe looks to be beyond them, although one or two figures in the squad will be looking to impress Gareth Southgate and try and earn a spot in the Euro 2020 squad. One of those would be Jack Grealish, but the midfielder's continued absence has hurt Aston Villa who were beaten despite taking the lead against Manchester City during the week.

It is the second Premier League fixture in a row in which they have taken the lead but eventually been beaten, although I think the first goal in this game is going to be key.

A Midlands derby would have had more intensity if the fans were allowed into Villa Park, but without them it will be difficult for the players. Things may also have been different if West Brom's run of consecutive wins had not come to a crashing halt in their 3-0 defeat at Leicester City on Thursday which is almost the one that confirms their place back in the second tier of English Football.

West Brom have been trying hard though and I think that may make this an open game as they look to try and get forward and score the goals they need to have an opportunity to escape their perilous position in the standings.

The problem is an open game leaves their vulnerable defence exposed and Leicester City showed what can happen when that is the case.

Aston Villa are not as strong as Leicester City and especially not without their inspirational leader Jack Grealish, but this is a team that has pace in the forward areas. Any spaces can thus be exploited and I think the home team will likely have too much against an opponent that is beginning to get a little desperate.

The form has not been ideal, but Aston Villa's sole win in recent weeks has come against a relegation threatened side at home. I think they can double that up here against a rival as they push West Brom that much closer to the trapdoor.

Leicester City v Crystal Palace Pick: There was plenty of attacking verve on display by Leicester City as they beat West Brom comprehensively on Thursday, although they are going up against a rested Crystal Palace that are back in action for the first time since April 10th.

Will that make a difference on the day? Obviously physically Crystal Palace should be in good shape, but there is very little for this team to play for in the remaining month of the Premier League season and motivation has to be questioned.

They did earn a late draw at Everton in their last away game, but Crystal Palace were very fortunate and a similar defensive performance is more likely to end in a similar way to the 1-4 home loss to Chelsea rather than the 1-1 draw at Goodison Park.

It is especially the case against this Leicester City team who are playing with real confidence at the moment and one who beat Crystal Palace comfortably here last season. The first goal on Thursday inspired Leicester City and they are about as healthy as they can be at the moment which gives them the edge as they look to secure a top four finish and a place in the Champions League.

Leicester City have won 3 of their last 4 at the King Power Stadium and scored at least three goals in each of those wins. We have also seen Crystal Palace lose half of their last 6 away Premier League games and all by at least two goal margins, while a more composed Everton would have likely beaten them pretty comfortably in their last away game too.

Last season Leicester City won this game 3-0 and I think they are more likely to secure another comfortable win and keep the pressure on those below them that are looking to steal away Champions League Football.

MY PICKS: Arsenal-Everton Over 2.5 Goals

Liverpool - 1.5 Asian Handicap

Chelsea

Brighton & Under 3.5 Goals

Leeds United-Manchester United Over 3.5 Goals

Aston Villa

Leicester City - 1 Asian Handicap

Fantasy Football GameWeek 33

The Triple Captain play on Heung-Min Son looked to be a risky one that was not going to pay off, especially after VAR ruled out what looked like being a late winner against Southampton on Wednesday evening.

However, he did manage to put away a late Penalty to give the week a positive return with the decision to take a slight hit for Kelechi Iheanacho also proving to be a correct one.

Unfortunately it looks to have come too late in some of my mini-Leagues and I am not even sure I am going to end with a good Overall Ranking in what has been a congested season.

Too many strange results seem to have impacted me and these early deadlines are irritating too.

We have another on Friday.

And the Wild Card is activated.

However, I am already committed to going out on Friday afternoon and that means having to make late decisions on my phone, a far from ideal way to play the Wild Card. With the Double GameWeek coming up in GW35 yet to be confirmed (we are still waiting to hear how the final two weeks are going to shake up to allow fans to be present for all twenty clubs despite the constant rumours that a decision has been made).

With that in mind I have to take a guess at how the weeks will break down- I have to assume what is currently GameWeek 36 due to be played in the midweek between GW35 and GW37 will be pushed back a few days and instead there will be a full round of fixtures between the final two weekends of the Premier League season.

So what does that mean for Fantasy purposes? First off it will mean the FA Cup Final will cause a blank for Leicester City, Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea, but all four clubs should have a DGW in 35.

Add in the Southampton vs Crystal Palace and Aston Villa vs Everton fixtures and it should mean eight teams have a Double left, but only half of them will also be in action in GW36.

It is such a shame that Jack Grealish is injured because he would have been a perfect player to bring in, but I am looking at bringing in a couple of Aston Villa players despite the difficult nature of their remaining fixtures and with motivation running down.

Other teams that look to have favourable fixtures are Liverpool, Leicester City, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur (although they blank in GW33), and Leeds United (after this week of course, I couldn't be asking their players to have a big week against Manchester United).

Those are likely to be the teams that make up the bulk of my Wild Card.

If you see someone buried in his phone while enjoying a nice, cold drink on Friday afternoon at least leave him alone until the 6:30pm deadline has passed.