Premier League Picks and Fantasy Football GameWeek 6 2022/23 (September 3-4)

The short turnaround between GameWeek 5 and GameWeek 6 is tough for Fantasy Football players as much as it is for the real life managers as they hope to keep some momentum going in what is a very tough opening to the new season.

European Football gets underway on Tuesday and we have GameWeek 7 and GameWeek 8 to get through before teams can break away for the September international break.

October looks an incredibly busy month so it is so important to keep the points ticking over.

Premier League Picks GameWeek 6

August was a horrific month for the Premier League Picks with upsets seemingly around every corner.

You do have to hope that things will settle down, but it is a difficult run towards the World Cup and the rotations can make things harder to predict. However, I would love to see a bit more luck behind my selections here considering some of the truly strange things that have occurred on a regular basis.

But don't worry, I don't believe there is a 'witch in the building' or that the weather has been too dry... A Paul Pogba inspired curse is clearly the issue!

Everton v Liverpool Pick: Both of these teams had different outcomes from their midweek fixtures as Everton blew a lead in a draw at Leeds United, while Liverpool came from behind to beat Newcastle United at Anfield.

However, Frank Lampard will arguably be the more pleased with what he has seen of late from his Everton team compared with Jurgen Klopp and his Liverpool team. Chances are being created by Liverpool, but they continue to concede the first goal in games and that puts them under immense pressure to get things right.

Falling behind in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park will be far from ideal for Liverpool, but this is always a challenging fixture for them. They may have won very comfortably here last December, but Liverpool had failed to secure the three points on 4 prior visits to Goodison Park and the home fans will certainly try and get on top of the visiting team making the short journey across Stanley Park.

Everton have scored first in both League games played this week, but have failed to hold on each time as they continue to show some defensive vulnerabilities. The chances being created is a positive for Everton, but those have come against Nottingham Forest, Brentford and Leeds United and you have to expect Liverpool to be harder to break down than those teams.

Recent results don't indicate that as Liverpool conceded first for the eighth time in nine games against Newcastle United, while Liverpool have also conceded the first goal in their last 5 away fixtures in all competitions. As much as Jurgen Klopp will be reminding his players of that fact, the return of Joel Matip cannot seem to come quickly enough.

He may be available for Saturday, but the bigger return for Liverpool could be Darwin Nunez for a team that has missed a focal point to their attacking play. The new signing has to be aware that defenders will have sensed a weakness in him after the way Darwin was hooked into a sending off against Crystal Palace, but I do think he will offer Liverpool a real threat going forward.

This is not going to be an easy game for Liverpool, but I do think they are the better team and will dominate the chances again. Everton may be a dangerous team on the counter-attack, but Liverpool's own attacking threat will be much stronger if Darwin and potentially Diogo Jota are back for them.

Avoiding going behind is the key for Liverpool and Everton have yet to lead at Goodison Park this season. If the visitors can edge in front, I think they have the quality to finally put in a much more rounded performance and secure a strong win on the day.

Brentford v Leeds United Pick: There isn't much love lost between Brentford and Leeds United, despite not being natural rivals, and the two teams will be heading into the weekend looking for a little better than recent results.

Over the last seven days, Brentford have earned two 1-1 draws against Everton and Crystal Palace, while Leeds United were beaten 1-0 at Brighton last Saturday before also drawing 1-1 with Everton.

An injury to Rodrigo will have dented the game-plan for Leeds United on Tuesday, but I do expect them to be a little more ready to play without their in-form striker. Patrick Bamford may not be ready to start, but he can give Leeds United a few more minutes than Tuesday, while the team are still producing strong attacking football that can create chances and hurt teams.

I think they will be able to do that against a Brentford team that have not defended as well as they would have liked, but Thomas Frank's team have been very good going forward. The manager has been a little disappointed with some of the lack of composure in the final third which has seen Brentford miss some glaring chances to win games over the last week, but The Bees can do more of the same on Saturday.

Ivan Toney is still a threat and Brentford will feel they can expose some of the vulnerabilities we have seen from Leeds United.

Both Premier League games between the teams ended with at least three goals shared out last season and both were games that featured some solid attacking football. An early goal could be key to the outcome of this one in West London and it could certainly spark the two teams to push forward in what could be an entertaining game for the fans in wet conditions.

Chelsea v West Ham United Pick: The Group Stages of their respective European competitions will begin during the week and both Chelsea and West Ham United are looking to find a bit more consistency in the Premier League.

The demands of the domestic and European calendar will be a huge test for every team ahead of the World Cup and this is a big game for the two clubs.

Thomas Tuchel and David Moyes will know what the other is likely going to want to do and they will have been trying to prepare their teams on a short week for this London derby. Chelsea have had an extra twenty-four hours to get ready, while they will also have Wesley Fofana available after finally getting his signing across the line.

I do think the extra time is going to be important for Chelsea and they have been playing pretty well in their two games at Stamford Bridge. The side have signed Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to offer a genuine threat down the middle, but Chelsea have scored two goals in each of their two home games and will be ready to integrate the ex-Arsenal striker into the line up later this month.

Chelsea should be able to create chances against a West Ham United team who have not completely convinced with their performances at the back. The Hammers looked much more threatening going forward against Tottenham Hotspur than we have seen for much of the season, but this is a fixture played away from home and West Ham United have lost 6 of their last 8 Premier League games on their travels.

The clean sheet at Villa Park is a positive, but West Ham United do not have the best recent record here and I think Chelsea's final third threat is hard to ignore.

With the goals being scored by The Blues, I think they can bounce back from the 2-1 loss at St Mary's by winning this home League game before the Champions League Group Stage gets underway.

Newcastle United v Crystal Palace Pick: After working as hard as they did on Wednesday, Newcastle United will have been disappointed to have returned home empty handed and Eddie Howe will be looking to pick the players up ahead of this game.

Playing at St James' Park has become a big help for the Newcastle United team with the fans firmly behind the style of football they are seeing under their current manager. They haven't just pleased the fans with the performances, but the results have also been impressive and Newcastle United have won 8 of their last 10 Premier League games here.

You do have to consider whether Newcastle United are now amongst the top teams in the Premier League, even without spending the kind of money that some expected under the new ownership. Eddie Howe's team play with confidence and they will feel they can compete with any team they face having given Manchester City and Liverpool a rough ride over the past month.

Not many will enjoy visiting St James' Park either, but this may be a good time for Crystal Palace even if they have struggled for consistency on their travels.

Injuries are limiting the options available to Eddie Howe and his team are playing with less time to prepare than Crystal Palace.

Patrick Vieira's team look healthier and they have shown how capable they can be in their 1-1 draw at Anfield followed by the 0-2 lead they had at the Etihad Stadium. Like their opponents in this fixture, Crystal Palace could not hold onto a two goal lead against Manchester City, although they were beaten 4-2 instead of earning the 3-3 draw that Newcastle United managed at home.

Crystal Palace will feel they can cause problems for Newcastle United and the home team do look a short price when you think of the players that are likely to be missing. The effort put into the narrow loss at Liverpool will have taken something from the legs and Crystal Palace's pace and quality in the final third may be enough for a positive result on Saturday afternoon.

Nottingham Forest v Bournemouth Pick: Both Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth were promoted to the Premier League last season, but they have taken vastly different approaches to how they feel they can consolidate their returns to the top flight.

While Bournemouth have been prudent spenders, Nottingham Forest have brought in a huge amount of players and spent over £200 million in getting the squad ready for the big time.

Steve Cooper cannot complain, but will be under pressure to deliver results, while Scott Parker's complaining at Bournemouth meant he became the earliest Sacking in Premier League history. The 9-0 hammering at Anfield cannot have helped, but Bournemouth bounced back for a point against Wolves during the week.

This time it is Nottingham Forest who will be looking to bounce back having been thumped 6-0 at Manchester City, but being at home will be a huge help. Nottingham Forest have hosted two tough opponents at the City Ground, but they have played really well in those games and now they face a much more winnable game.

That also brings additional pressure on players to perform, but there has been enough from Nottingham Forest to think they will have too much for Bournemouth. Steve Cooper's team will get forward and they will create chances and I do think it will be a challenge for Bournemouth to stay competitive considering the lack of goals in the squad.

Winning both League games against Nottingham Forest last season will give Bournemouth confidence, but this is a much stronger Forest team.

Defensively there are some questions about Nottingham Forest that will need to be answered, but I think they will have enough in the final third to secure an important three points.

Tottenham Hotspur v Fulham Pick: Merely looking at the results will suggest Tottenham Hotspur are in pretty good form, but there has been a slight lack of energy about them at times.

Some of that may have been down to the early start to the season, while a couple of key players are not in the best of form. Heung-Min Son is still searching for his first goal of the season having finished as joint leading scorer last season, while Tottenham Hotspur have just struggled to put an end product to some of the football being played.

In saying that, Spurs are still creating plenty of chances and they have been a much more confident team at home. Picking up four points from consecutive away games at Nottingham Forest and West Ham United will have pleased the manager, even if Antonio Conte felt his team were unbelievably denied a Penalty in the first half at the London Stadium following a long VAR check.

Being back at home should see a better all around performance from Tottenham Hotspur as they prepare to host this London derby.

Fulham are the visitors and Marco Silva's men have made a strong start to their return to the Premier League. An important home win over Brighton will have given the whole squad a boost, but the underlying numbers are a little troubling considering the amount of chances Fulham seem to be giving up.

They have impressed going forward though and in Aleksander Mitrovic they have a player in really good form, while Fulham led at Arsenal last weekend. A mistake helped them get in front and Arsenal were deserved winners in the end and I think Tottenham Hotspur will be able to follow their rivals in earning a home win over Fulham.

At some point the chances being allowed by Fulham will hurt them and the attacking approach could leave them open in this one at a tough away venue.

The last time these clubs met here it ended in a draw, but I think Tottenham Hotspur are stronger now and they can find the goals to secure a comfortable win on the day.

Aston Villa v Manchester City Pick: In recent years Aston Villa have given Manchester City one or two things to think about and Steven Gerrard has pointed out how close they came to upsetting the Champions at least once least season.

Both fixtures ended in narrow wins for Manchester City, but Aston Villa are a team playing with little confidence at the moment. It is a complete contrast at Manchester City where the goals have been flowing very easily and with a striker in absolutely stunning form in Erling Haaland leading the way.

That lack of confidence makes it very difficult to imagine Aston Villa are going to be as competitive as they were at the Etihad Stadium on the final day of last season. To be blunt, Aston Villa took their chances when they came that day, but this is a team who have not been producing the best attacking form this season and that is a major worry for their manager.

To make matters worse, Aston Villa have looked very vulnerable at the back and only poor finishing from Arsenal prevented them from being at the wrong end of a heavy loss. Set pieces will be key for Aston Villa to try and hurt Manchester City, but I am not sure how they can contain a team who have scored three or more goals in their last 4 Premier League games.

Better defences have struggled with the attacking threat Manchester City have produced and I think this is going to be a very tough day in the office for the hosts. There is a chance that Erling Haaland will not start the game, but even then Manchester City have plenty of attacking threats on the pitch and I think they will be a little too good all around for an Aston Villa team who have had a miserable August.

The last 3 Manchester City wins over Aston Villa have come by single goal margins and it is never easy to win by two or more away from home. However, Aston Villa look really poor at the back and I think Manchester City may manage at least three goals here which should be enough for a comfortable away win.

Brighton v Leicester City Pick: Both of these clubs were beaten in the midweek round of Premier League fixtures, but you have to favour Brighton as the more likely to bounce back on Sunday in front of the television cameras.

For starters, Brighton have started the season in much stronger form than Leicester City. Secondly they have had two extra days to prepare for this Premier League game having played at Fulham on Tuesday, while Leicester City lost to Manchester United on Thursday.

Add in home advantage and the fact that Brighton got the better of Leicester City here twelve months ago and most factors are pointing at the home team as the most likely winners.

Backing Brighton at odds on is not easy considering their sometimes wastefulness in front of goal and that is the major issue that has prevented Graham Potter's team from even more success than they have had. It was more of the same on Tuesday at Fulham, while the goalless draw at home against Newcastle United was down to Nick Pope and some poor finishing from the Brighton forwards.

They did beat Leeds United here last weekend, but Brighton are not going to overwhelm teams and that gives Leicester City a chance.

However, it is very difficult to know where Leicester City are heading at the moment with an unhappy manager and a squad that needed fresh faces. The goals being conceded is a real concern, while Leicester City have looked far too open and you have to expect the intelligent Brighton forwards to find spaces to exploit.

James Maddison, Harvey Barnes and Jamie Vardy do give Leicester City some quality in the final third that has seen them score in their first 4 Premier League games before being shut out by Manchester United. I think they will pose problems for Brighton, but I cannot ignore the chances Leicester City are likely to give away and this feels like another home win, albeit in what is expected to be a tight game.

Manchester United v Arsenal Pick: These clubs met in April at the Emirates Stadium and you can get a feeling of the kind of turnover that has been made this summer from the starting line ups from that day.

Out of the eleven players that Arsenal selected, I would suggest only a maximum of six will be playing on Sunday.

From Manchester United, you could argue that seven of the eleven that began the game in April will be starting this one.

Both managers will be pleased with the form that Manchester United and Arsenal have been displaying ahead of this fixture, but injuries are beginning to crunch down on the visitors.

A strong start has been made to the season, but I do think we will learn a lot more about Arsenal following this fixture. The wins so far have been against teams Arsenal would be expected to beat following the investment made this summer and it is telling that four of the five Premier League wins have come against teams sitting in 13th or lower in the Division.

In fact three of those wins have been against teams in the bottom five, including against the current bottom two and so we do have to question how far Arsenal really have come. I won't deny they have been impressive winners in the games played so far, but a trip to Old Trafford is the litmus test and may give us a much better idea of what to expect from Arsenal over the next nine months.

Arsenal don't have a bad recent record at Manchester United, but were beaten 3-2 here last season.

They are also facing a Manchester United team playing with more confidence after 3 wins in a row and back to back clean sheets. The home win over Liverpool is easily the best result either of these teams have produced so far this season and Manchester United have lost 1 of their last 11 Premier League games at Old Trafford, despite the negative vibe around the club towards the end of last season.

Erik ten Hag will still feel there is an improvement to be made by his team, especially in the forward areas, but he will be happier with the partnerships at the back. Overall the defence has looked better without Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire, while Casemiro will be an upgrade on Scott McTominay when it comes to protecting the defence.

Antony is unlikely to be given a start this Sunday, but he is another that should be able to improve a problematic position for Manchester United on the right wing and there is much encouragement from what we have seen.

Injury issues in the Arsenal camp certainly give Manchester United the edge in my opinion and I do think the home team can keep the momentum going.

I respect what Arsenal have done so far this season, but Crystal Palace could have easily taken a point from them in the opening weekend fixture. They have won 4 of their last 6 away Premier League games, but ignoring the exceptions which were heavy defeats at Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United will be dangerous.

My lean is that Manchester United's stronger defensive performances of the last couple of weeks will show up here and they can be backed on the 'Draw No Bet' market to secure the three points.

MY PICKS: Liverpool - 1.25 Asian Handicap @ 1.89 Bet365 (2 Units)

Brentford-Leeds United Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.72 Bet365 (2 Units)

Chelsea to Win & Over 1 Total Goal @ 1.83 Bet365 (2 Units)

Crystal Palace + 0.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.84 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Nottingham Forest @ 2.00 Bet365 (2 Units)

Tottenham Hotspur - 1.25 Asian Handicap @ 2.09 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Manchester City - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.92 Bet365 (2 Units)

Brighton @ 1.91 Bet Fred (2 Units)

Manchester United Draw No Bet @ 1.91 Bet Fred (2 Units)

August 2022/23: 14-30, - 29.76 Units (88 Units Staked, - 33.82% Yield)

Fantasy Football GameWeek 6

I did say Pep Guardiola is a troll didn't I?

After previously mentioning that he will not be asking Erling Haaland to play every three days, the Manchester City manager has now stated that recovery is much easier at 22 years old than 32 years old and it sounds like rest and rotation is not a part of the future for Haaland after all.

Personally I couldn't trust Guardiola about anything he says in his press conferences and that statement actually has me thinking that he is more likely to have Erling Haaland on the bench at Villa Park instead of starting.

It's the go to move for Guardiola, but regardless I am unlikely to shift my Captain armband after another Erling Haaland super-show on Wednesday hurt me in GameWeek 5.

I can't really complain about a return of 79 points even noting that I got my Captain wrong, but the decision to bring in Rodrigo has backfired as he suffered a first half injury that will rule him out for the rest of the month.

Of course that means I am going to have to make a move in the market.

I did consider Leandro Trossard and Marcus Rashford, but I have Pascal Gross and did not want two Brighton players in attacking roles. I also think Rashford will soon be under pressure for his starting position in the Manchester United eleven after a couple of less than impressive outings and the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Anthony Martial, when he is fit, could be pushing to become the focal point for the club.

Marcus Rashford would be more appealing if he could put two or three quality games together, but it has been a long time since we saw him do that and I think the Arsenal game on Sunday may be his last hurrah with Antony coming in and United looking pretty good when Ronaldo came on against Leicester City.

Other options included the sideways move from Rodrigo to Jack Harrison, but ultimately I wanted a player I could use through to the September international break and the focus soon shifted to Nottingham Forest.

It came down to a straight decision between Morgan Gibbs-White and Jesse Lingard, but the latter was not involved in the 6-0 loss at Manchester City. Morgan Gibbs-White started and was withdrawn after 57 minutes, but I think that strengthens his chance of starting in GameWeek 6 and fixtures against Bournemouth and Fulham at home to sandwich a trip to Leeds United is an appealing run before the end of the month.

Steve Cooper has Nottingham Forest playing attacking football and they have been very impressive at the City Ground considering they have hosted West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur. The upcoming fixtures look much more manageable and the move to either Gibbs-White or Lingard at least leaves more money in the bank if I have to make more transfers in GameWeek 7.

Ideally I will then be able to move through that GameWeek without a transfer to have two to use in GameWeek 8.

The number of transfers made by Nottingham Forest makes it harder to trust them, but I do think they have done enough to suggest they can at least give Bournemouth, Leeds United and Fulham plenty to think about. That is all I can ask of them and I do think Morgan Gibbs-White/Jesse Lingard are differentials that can pay off here.

The Captain choice is tough for one reason only- I hate placing the armband on the first game of the weekend.

However, the return of Darwin Nunez is going to be a big plus for Liverpool and I do think it will benefit Mo Salah who has made a slower start than expected. He has scored three goals in his last two visits to Goodison Park and Everton are still defensively vulnerable, while I think Salah will win the minutes battle with Erling Haaland.

Going against the Norwegian has proven to be a big mistake over the last two GameWeeks, and it will be a tough day if Salah has not produced something in the early kick off.

A Merseyside derby is not an easy game to bring home a return, but I do think Liverpool are creating enough chances to believe they can break down their rivals and score at least two goals on the day.

Premier League Picks and Fantasy Football GameWeek 5 2022/23 (August 30-September 1)

The intense schedule for the top clubs in the top European Leagues will really begin this week with most of those teams playing twice a week through to mid-November when the break for the World Cup will begin.

Only a September international break cools things down a touch, but for most clubs that just means their players are on the field twice a week for their country rather than for their club.

It is going to mean a lot of rotation and that will impact the Fantasy Football selections, more of which is below.

Premier League Picks GameWeek 5

This has not been a very good start to the Premier League Picks as multiple moments that can change the entire feeling of a match have seemingly gone against my selections.

Penalty misses, early sendings off, or goals being conceded within five minutes of the start of a match have hurt.

World class finishing to erase winning selections with minutes remaining have also been a part of the deal and teams have also blown two goal leads.

It stings, but you have to believe some of those moments will naturally begin to turn back around.

Crystal Palace v Brentford Pick: It has been a difficult opening to the Premier League selections as late goals and Penalty misses sting, but the quick turnaround into a full midweek set of games will hopefully see a change in fortune.

A London derby will open the ten Premier League games to be played between Tuesday and Thursday and both Crystal Palace and Brentford will be feeling a little sore after the results on Saturday.

Patrick Vieira's team had travelled to Manchester and led the Champions 0-2, but capitulated in the last 37 minutes in an eventual 4-2 defeat. It will be tough to pick up the Crystal Palace squad after that result and they will be hoping that Wilfred Zaha can return to give them a boost in the build up to this one.

Thomas Frank's team came from behind to earn a point, but the manager believed wastefulness in the final third was costly for Brentford. The woodwork was hit multiple times in the 1-1 draw with Everton and Frank will be keen to see his strikers show a touch more composure when the big chances come their way.

Brentford have been creating plenty of chances in the first month of the season, but the defensive vulnerabilities on display at the end of last season continue to be an issue for the team. They have conceded at least twice in each of their last 4 away Premier League games, but scoring goals has not been a problem and Brentford have scored at least twice in each of their last 4 on their travels in all competitions.

I do think they can pose problems for a Crystal Palace team who have yet to earn a clean sheet this season and who have looked a little unsure of themselves at the back. However, Patrick Viera's team have scored in each of their last 3 Premier League games and have looked pretty good going forward in all of their fixtures played in August.

I can't ignore the fact that both League games between these teams finished goalless last season, but the underlying numbers of the defences early in this campaign has suggested there is some vulnerability about both Brentford and Crystal Palace. The 1-1 scoreline is perhaps the most dangerous against the selection, but I do think there will be at least three goals shared out between the teams on Tuesday.

Fulham v Brighton Pick: Both Marco Silva and Graham Potter have to be pleased with the Premier League performances from their respective teams in August, but there is still one more game to negotiate before moving in September.

They are heading into this fixture in slightly different form- Fulham have lost back to back away games in all competitions, while Brighton have won their last 3 in a row. However, Fulham's setbacks have been away from Craven Cottage and I do think they have been strong at home in their two Premier League games played here.

Defensively there are some questions, but Fulham have looked really good going forward and have been creating plenty of chances. Alexander Mitrovic has struggled at this level in previous years, but the Serbian striker has been in strong form to open this season including scoring the winning goal against Brentford.

In both games at Craven Cottage, Fulham have started really well and have scored the first goal which has been the key to picking up 4 points from a possible 6. However, there are some questions for a team who have conceded two goals in 4 of their 5 games played in all competitions this season and now have to face a Brighton team who finished last season in fine form.

Losing Marc Cucurella and Yves Bissouma will have hurt, but the squad have rallied behind Graham Potter and Brighton are playing with confidence. They have looked strong at both ends of the field over the first month of the season and Brighton are unbeaten in 10 in all competitions.

The away form has been particularly impressive and Brighton have won 5 of their last 7 away Premier League games. In 4 of those 7 away League games, Brighton have scored at least twice and I do think they can cause problems for Fulham as long as they can weather the expected early storm.

Both teams may hit the back of the net in this one, but I have to give the lean to Brighton with their long-term form away from home. The goals being conceded by Fulham is a concern, and Brighton have a pretty decent record at Craven Cottage in recent years which has seen them lose 1 of their last 5 visits.

Brighton have won 3 times in that stretch of games and I think on current form The Seagulls may have enough to leave West London with three more points on Tuesday evening.

Southampton v Chelsea Pick: Deep squads are going to be important for all Premier League clubs in the lead up to the World Cup, but it is especially the case for clubs competing in European competition who will have to become used to playing every three or four days until mid-November.

Thomas Tuchel has a couple of injuries in the squad which are making things difficult, but he will be frustrated by the sending offs that have led to suspensions. Conor Gallagher will be missing out on Tuesday, while Wesley Fofana may not be signed in time despite the fact that the transfer has moved forward.

At least Kalidou Koulibaly is back and Chelsea are coming in behind a victory over Leicester City.

However, you do have to question whether that win has sapped some of the energy in the Chelsea legs- they spent over 70 minutes playing with ten men on Saturday and a tough away game at St Mary's will present a real challenge for the visiting team.

Southampton are coming into the fixture off a home defeat and the team have struggled for performances at home going back to last season. They have lost 4 of their last 5 home Premier League games and Southampton are struggling for consistency under Ralph Hasenhuttl.

I do think Southampton showed enough on Saturday to be considered a threat and they will feel they can outwork Chelsea if there is any tiredness in the away dressing room. The Saints have created some decent openings in their fixtures played this month, but Southampton have yet to really convince defensively and I do think Chelsea are strong enough in the final third to find the goals to win this fixture.

Chelsea have won 6 of their last 7 games at St Mary's and they have scored at least twice in each of those victories. They are likely going to need to score at least two goals to win this Premier League game and I think Thomas Tuchel's men have shown they can find a way to scoring the goals to secure the victory.

Leeds United v Everton Pick: Two big clubs in English Football both flirted with relegation last season from the Premier League and Leeds United and Everton must be thinking about consolidation at this level over the next nine months.

The start made by Leeds United will have their fans believing they can achieve much more than that, but Jesse Marsch will want to keep his players focused on each match. The defeat at Brighton may be a reminder to the players and the fans that there is more work to do, but Leeds United have every chance of bouncing back in front of their own fans.

Last season was a challenging time for Leeds United at Elland Road, but they have won all three games played here this month and have scored at least twice in each victory. Jesse Marsch looks to have found a strong balance between attack and defence and that has shown up at home.

He will certainly feel his Leeds United team can do enough to beat Everton who have struggled for clean sheets and simply have not scored enough goals. Dominic Calvert-Lewin continues to be a big miss, while Neal Maupay will be making his debut having signed from Brighton knowing he has some big boots to fill.

I do think Maupay can make an impact for Everton who have been creating chances, but just lacked a finishing touch to some of the football played. However, Everton continue to look vulnerable at the back and I do think Leeds United are playing well enough to exploit that, especially at home.

Brentford should have beaten Everton on Saturday and I think this game will follow a similar path with the home team having the majority of the stronger chances. Frank Lampard's men have shown they can be pretty stubborn to beat, but Everton have not faced the toughest fixture list over the last two weeks and have still had to ride their luck at times.

The first goal will be important, but Leeds United can get that and that could lay the foundation for another three points at home.

Arsenal v Aston Villa Pick: Three wins from three relatively decent fixtures did not tell us too much about Arsenal, but the character shown in coming from behind to beat Fulham will have more people taking notice. There is no doubt that Mikel Arteta and the board have put together a strong squad and one that is young enough to grow together, but the manager will be the first to admit that bigger tests are yet to be faced.

At the start of the season some may have felt Aston Villa could provide that test, but Steven Gerrard's team have been underachieving all season. There are suggestions that Gerrard is not very happy and that the players are also not on the same page as the manager and these are the kind of stories that usually prelude a change in direction at a club.

I don't think the fans will be too disappointed if Steven Gerrard does leave the club as many are complaining that the football is as turgid as you will ever get to see. Some have even pointed out that the team looks to have gone backwards since the Sacking of Dean Smith and that despite the huge investment that has been made in the last two transfer windows.

The defeats to Bournemouth, Crystal Palace and West Ham United are made all the worse when you think those teams are a combined 0-1-8 when not playing Aston Villa this season.

There is quality in the squad that has to be respected, but if the players have fallen out with the manager, it can be difficult to imagine Aston Villa causing too many problems for Arsenal. Defensively they have been struggling and could be without Tyrone Mings and Diego Carlos for this one, while Arsenal are a team who are flying at home and playing with a swagger we have not seen for a long time.

Last season Arsenal beat Aston Villa 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium and I would not be surprised if The Gunners are able to match that margin of victory if they can score the first goal this weekend. The chances being created at home and Aston Villa's poor recent away record in the Premier League suggests Arsenal are going to be on the front foot for much of the fixture and they can win well.

Bournemouth v Wolves Pick: A month ago you would have seen plenty of predictions of how the Premier League will shake up over the course of the next few months and many would have tipped up Bournemouth for an immediate return to the Championship.

Plenty of others would have suggested that Wolves could slip into trouble too, especially as they had a miserable end to the last campaign.

Bruno Lage has to be a little worried considering the early season form, but the Wolves board have backed their manager with some signings made to strengthen the team. Holding onto Ruben Neves will be a huge achievement, but Wolves are still struggling for goals and they have now failed to win any of their last 11 Premier League games.

They have created some chances, but Wolves have not defended as well as they would have liked even if it took a world class strike to secure point against them on Sunday. Newcastle United did enough to deserve that result and Wolves will be under pressure in what should be a tough away game.

Bournemouth are another who are trying to recover from a disappointing result this past weekend and the 9-0 defeat at Anfield will have embarrassed all associated with the club. Scott Parker continues to let all know that he needs more help, but Bournemouth are unlikely to have new faces involved in this one on Wednesday.

The Cherries have beaten Aston Villa at home this season so have to be respected, but they are not a team that have looked as good going forward as they would have liked. Some of that may be down to the fact that Bournemouth have faced some of the toughest teams in the Division after the opening game against Aston Villa, but this is a much more winnable fixture.

The first goal feels like it will be massive- Bournemouth's poor defensive performances are a worry against a Wolves team that do have pace and some quality in the final third. However, Wolves have lost the winning feeling and this could be a close match.

I don't think there will be much between them on the night, but Wolves may have just enough to steal the points and I think they can be backed on the Asian Handicap.

UPDATE: I wrote this before the news of Scott Parker's departure from Bournemouth was being confirmed. It could impact the players in a positive way- they will feel the previous manager has thrown them under the bus with some of his comments and it may produced a big reaction from them.

I still think Wolves will edge to the points on quality alone, but the dynamics are a little different now.

Manchester City v Nottingham Forest Pick: Wins are all that matters at the end of the day, but Manchester City will not want to continue having to fight back from two goals down as they have been in each of their last two Premier League fixtures. Some late misses prevented Manchester City coming back to beat Newcastle United, but that was not the case on Saturday as they fought back in a 4-2 win over Crystal Palace.

Pep Guardiola will be demanding more control from his players before the Champions League Group Stage begins next week and Manchester City also have some tougher games coming up.

The manager will be demanding that control begins on Wednesday when hosting Nottingham Forest, a team who have looked really open at the back and yet to show a consistency in the final third.

Nottingham Forest played attractive football against Tottenham Hotspur, but they were not able to create great openings and were perhaps a little fortunate to only lose by two goals on the day. Dean Henderson saved a Penalty for a second home game in succession, but the Manchester United player on loan at the City Ground is going to be a busy player on Wednesday.

The Tricky Trees will need Henderson at his best, but Nottingham Forest were well beaten at Newcastle United in their first away game. Everton created a lot of chances against Nottingham Forest too and that has to be a major concern for Steve Cooper ahead of a game against the Champions who have scored at least three goals in their last 3 Premier League games.

At home Manchester City have been very dominant and scored at least three goals in 4 of their last 5 at the Etihad Stadium, while banging in four in both home games against Bournemouth and Crystal Palace this month. I expect some changes to be made to the starting eleven, but Manchester City should have plenty of quality on the field and they are capable of covering this big Asian Handicap mark.

West Ham United v Tottenham Hotspur Pick: An early London derby between two teams who will be chasing European places in the Premier League come the end of the season will be played on Wednesday as the first month of the campaign draws to a close.

It has been a more productive month for Tottenham Hotspur, although Antonio Conte will be looking for improved performances even if the results have been pretty good. The win at Nottingham Forest will have given Tottenham Hotspur some confidence, but Antonio Conte will be asking his players to just show a bit more composure all around.

He will be the first to remind the squad that this is going to be a much tougher test against a West Ham United team who have finally won a Premier League game for the first time this season. It was far from a vintage performance from David Moyes' team, but they did enough to beat Aston Villa and will be looking to back that up.

New signings are still bedding in though and West Ham United look short of defensive numbers with injury issues meaning there are vulnerabilities that can be exploited by the visiting team. The attacking side of their football has not really been firing as the manager would have hoped either and I do think Tottenham Hotspur can snap their run of consecutive losses at the London Stadium.

You have to believe Tottenham Hotspur can create the chances to do that as long as they can weather what could be an early West Ham United storm. David Moyes had set his team up to be very effective against the top teams last season, but West Ham United have been well beaten by Manchester City and Brighton at the London Stadium this month and I do think Tottenham Hotspur are playing well enough to secure another away victory in the space of less than a week.

Liverpool v Newcastle United Pick: Eddie Howe is doing a very strong job as manager of Newcastle United, but there will be a frustration with some key injuries that have been picked up.

They lost Callum Wilson last week, while Allan Saint-Maximin picked up an injury against Wolves that is likely going to keep him out of this one. Alexander Isak could be involved for the first time since being signed from Real Sociedad, but Newcastle United may not have the same bite going forward as they did when facing Manchester City a couple of weeks ago.

I expect Newcastle United to be a threat from set pieces and their counter attack could hurt a Liverpool team that have played a high line under Jurgen Klopp. They have been able to do that with confidence previously, but injuries have left Liverpool a little more vulnerable and I do think Newcastle United can have some success.

However, Liverpool are going to be a lot more confident having thumped Bournemouth on Saturday and I do expect the home team to get forward and create chances. They have done that all season and Newcastle United are a team that allowed Brighton and Manchester City to create plenty against them.

Only an inspired Nick Pope has prevented Newcastle United from falling to defeat already this season, but they are likely going to need him at his best again. The Liverpool squad will begin to look much stronger in the next couple of weeks, but they have shown there is still enough quality to win matches.

Things have just seemed to conspire against Liverpool early in this season, while Newcastle United have perhaps had fortune on their side. However, I think Liverpool kick on from the win over Bournemouth and the injuries in key attacking areas may leave Newcastle United short in this one as Liverpool perhaps win by a big enough margin to cover this Asian Handicap line.

Leicester City v Manchester United Pick: Winning at St Mary's will have given the Manchester United players another shot of confidence, especially when you consider how poorly they have played away from Old Trafford for a number of months. 7 straight away losses underlines the point, but a gritty win at Southampton along with the clean sheet will keep the momentum going under Erik ten Hag.

Antony has been signed and that is a move endorsed by the manager, although he is unlikely to be playing on Thursday.

It will mean the starting eleven have to impress ten Hag with the likes of Casemiro and Cristiano Ronaldo others pushing for starts and I do think Manchester United have a few more options now. Regardless, Erik ten Hag has shown that reputations mean nothing and only form and doing what is expected on the field will be good enough to keep players in the starting line up.

Manchester United have not had the best of recent visits to the King Power Stadium, but they may not have a better chance to get the better of Leicester City.

Brendan Rodgers has seen his team look very vulnerable defensively and they have lost 3 Premier League games in a row. The last defeat came at Stamford Bridge despite the fact that Chelsea were reduced to ten men early on, while Leicester City have looked weak at both ends of the field in their opening three League games before the loss last Saturday.

Even in that one Chelsea created enough chances against Leicester City, which is going to be encouraging for Manchester United when noting that The Blues were down to ten men for 70 minutes.

James Maddison is a doubt and his absence would be a big blow for Leicester City, while Manchester United will feel they have the momentum behind them anyway. This is never an easy place to visit, but Leicester City have conceded two goals to both Brentford and Southampton here and Manchester United look a big price at odds against to win.

This won't be easy and I expect there will be tense moments to ride out for the visitors, but I am looking for the quality in the final third to just about give Manchester United the edge to earn the full points on offer.

MY PICKS: Crystal Palace-Brentford Over 2.5 Goals @ 2.10 Bet365 (2 Units)

Brighton - 0.25 Asian Handicap @ 2.01 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Chelsea to Win & Over 1 Total Goals @ 1.95 Bet365 (2 Units)

Leeds United - 0.25 Asian Handicap @ 1.84 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Arsenal - 1.25 Asian Handicap @ 2.06 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Wolves - 0.25 Asian Handicap @ 1.87 Bet365 (2 Units)

Manchester City - 2.75 Asian Handicap @ 1.76 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Tottenham Hotspur @ 2.05 Bet Fred (2 Units)

Liverpool - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.84 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Manchester United @ 2.10 Bet365 (2 Units)

August 2022/23: 12-22, - 20.48 Units (68 Units Staked, - 30.12% Yield)

Fantasy Football GameWeek 5

Patience is always the key in playing any type of Fantasy game and not making any rash decisions when things have not gone to plan early is the absolute state of mind you have to maintain.

That isn't easy when big priced players are underperforming, but GameWeek 4 was a much stronger one.

In saying that, I am still not sure how my Captain failed to return even a single assist in a game in which his team managed to score NINE goals. The only saving grace is that many would have selected Mo Salah as their Captain for the week and the rest of my team made up for the lack of production from the Liverpool forward.

The couple of players that are of real concern are Leon Bailey and Gabriel Martinelli.

The latter has at least returned early and his price point has moved up markedly, but a couple of games in which he has not been as effective is something I have noted.

Arsenal have a solid squad of players and the likes of Emile Smith Rowe will be pushing Martinelli, although for now he is a keeper with other issues to address.

I have already mentioned how intense the schedule is between now and November and that is likely going to mean rotations- that means a strong bench is needed to make up for any players that are surprisingly rested.

With that in mind, my transfers this week are pretty easy having held one on GameWeek 4 to use ahead of the midweek fixtures. Leon Bailey has to leave the squad with the upcoming games and being out of favour under Steven Gerrard, while Zinchenko could miss out on Wednesday and then has a difficult game at Old Trafford to come, assuming he is back by the weekend.

I am looking to bring back Nico Williams of Nottingham Forest who has a good set of fixtures coming up after the visit to Manchester City and who looks like he could offer plenty of attacking returns. The Leeds United fixtures also look pretty appealing before the trip to Manchester United next month and so downgrading Zinchenko into a £4.1 million Williams opens the door to move Bailey into Rodrigo or Jack Harrison.

Patrick Bamford continues to miss time so Rodrigo looks the superior short-term choice and also is a potential player that can help to rebuild the bank after the drop in prices for both Bailey and Marcus Rashford hurt me early.

The Captain choice is a tough one this week- Erling Haaland's performance against Crystal Palace is obviously catching the eye, while Nottingham Forest have looked really weak defensively in the system being played by Steve Cooper. However, Pep Guardiola has already begun to troll the Fantasy players around the world by suggesting he will be rotating Haaland as soon as Manchester City have to play twice a week and this would be the perfect game to give Julian Alvarez the start.

It is enough to put me off Erling Haaland and give Mo Salah another chance- as disappointing as his return was on Saturday, he had a couple of great chances to score and I think he will have more against Newcastle United. Eddie Howe's team is much improved, but Brighton and Manchester City have created plenty of chances against them already this season and only an inspired Nick Pope has prevented defeat.

He will need to be as inspired on Wednesday and I think Mo Salah edges out Gabriel Jesus for the armband.

Good luck to all over the coming three days before GameWeek 6's deadline hits on Saturday morning.

Premier League Picks and Fantasy Football GameWeek 4 2022/23 (August 27th-28th 2022)

The Premier League continues to move at a pace and we are very shortly going to add in European commitments for the top teams which means a huge amount of football will be played in a short space of time.

This is all down to the Winter World Cup in three months time and that is a problem for Fantasy players as much as the real life managers with rotation set to be pretty high.

It is the first test of the squads between GameWeek 4 and GameWeek 6 when three Premier League matches are played by each club in the space of eight or nine days. That will be a challenge for the deepest of squads and something that will mean needing a strong bench to negotiate the path through.

United Corner- Momentum, Momentum, Momentum

That was not a normal Monday night at Old Trafford.

It has been a long time since I've sat in such an inspired atmosphere and certainly the loudest the fans have been since the return to the stands following the Covid pandemic and I include the 5-1 mauling of Leeds United last season and the 4-1 win over Newcastle United as Cristiano Ronaldo made his second debut for the club.

I have to believe the that march to the ground that saw thousands of United fans come together certainly helped and the adrenaline was pumping at kick off. Anti-Glazer chants were shouted loud and proud before, during and after the game and Lisandro Martinez clearly captured the vibe around the Stadium by depositing Mo Salah to the turf within seconds of the start of the game.

I won't lie, I wasn't expecting much from United after their first couple of results, but it was a strong performance and a much deserved win, even if Jurgen Klopp was hesitant to admit that. Erik ten Hag got the big decisions right on the night and goals from Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford will hopefully begin to spark their careers at the club.

As I've wrote in the headline, now it's all about momentum, momentum, momentum.

The win over Liverpool will quickly be forgotten if Manchester United are unable to take maximum points from the away games at Southampton and Leicester City before the visit of Arsenal next Sunday. Yes, the away form has been miserable over the last few months, but Southampton and Leicester City are very much winnable fixtures for any club that is hoping to chase a place in the top four and this is the time for the players to stand up and be counted.

Beating Liverpool in an intense atmosphere showed character, but United fans expect and demand more.

That word 'momentum' is also very important when it comes to the protests- the club are doing all they can to douse those, either by editing videos to remove chants they don't like, or taking down banners using weak excuses to do so.

The march down to the ground on Old Trafford was far bigger than the one that began against Norwich City on Easter Weekend and I do hope 'The 1958' can keep it going. The Glazers have been rocking, but United fans cannot allow one or two shiny new toys and a big win over those lot from down the road to cloud our judgement.

The real issue remains at the club, but I have faith that 'The 1958' will continue to swell in terms of support and the momentum is with them and us as we continue to remind the world how much the Glazer family have hurt the club over their seventeen year ownership.

Remember, Glazers Out.

Leaving Old Trafford on Monday night, you couldn't help but smell the change in the air with the fans pumped and the adrenaline coursing through each and every one of us.

I will admit that I have not been convinced with some of the early decisions made by Erik ten Hag, especially having Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire starting the first two League games, but I was feeling much better on Tuesday morning.

The manager has not only made some big decisions in his team selection, but his position to do so will have been strengthened after the 2-1 win over Liverpool and I was impressed with some of the football played. Lisandro Martinez and Tyrell Malacia were excellent on Monday, as was Raphael Varane, and I was enjoying the fact that all three were willing to make passes into players in front of them rather than always turning back or playing square as Shaw and Maguire have tended to do.

Some of that is down to shot confidence, but Manchester United need braver players and I think Martinez and Malacia have laid down a marker.

Now it is about backing it up.

I'd give them ample time to do that and not just remove either if they have a game short of what we saw on Monday- too many like Shaw and Maguire have had multiple chances and need to be reminded that form and performance levels, not reputation, gets you selected at a big club.

The manager is likely going to pick the same eleven that started on Monday night with the only question being which Anthony to go for- Elanga or Martial?

Regardless, I do think Erik ten Hag will feel much more settled as the manager of this club after the last game and stamping his authority on the squad is key.

Premier League Picks GameWeek 4

There is no hiding place- I've had an absolutely miserable start to the season.

Not much has broken my way, but there have also been some bad Picks.

It's not all going to come back at once, but a winning week is important with the fixtures coming round thick and fast and I am expecting much better than the production so far.

Another poor week may mean a reset is needed before going again, but these are my thoughts for the fixtures scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.

Southampton v Manchester United Pick: A win over Liverpool will always be appreciated by those who follow Manchester United, but for most this cannot paper over the cracks at the club and there will be a continued protest against the Glazer family who have been so damaging in their time in charge.

This is something that is likely going to drag on, but the fans still made sure they were firmly behind the team and the club rather than the owners on Monday night. A pumped atmosphere at Old Trafford was added to by the intensity of the Manchester United players and they deservedly came away with a first win of the season and of the Erik ten Hag era.

The manager made some big decisions in his starting line up having left out the likes of Harry Maguire and Cristiano Ronaldo, but those were justified in the 2-1 win. It is unlikely that there will be wholesale changes after that performance, but Casemiro is ready to make his debut and could come in for Scott McTominay, while the main question for ten Hag is which Anthony to start- Elanga or Martial?

Regardless, Erik ten Hag has to be spending the time between Monday night and Saturday lunchtime to remind his players that the win over Liverpool will mean nothing if they don't back it up at St Mary's. The effort and intensity shown has to be produced in every game and Manchester United will also be tested having lost their last 7 away Premier League games going back to last season.

Avoiding the early mistakes that proved devastating at Brentford will be important, but Manchester United will also have to match the intensity that Southampton will be playing with.

Rumours that the players were no longer behind Ralph Hasenhuttl were rampant and there would have been some real discontent in the stands as Southampton trailed Leeds United 0-2 in their first home game. However, the players showed considerable character to come back and earn a deserved draw and then backed that up with a strong performance and win at Leicester City.

Confidence won't be a problem in the home team and I do think Southampton have shown they can at least give Manchester United plenty to think about in recent years. Yes, they have taken a 9-0 thumping at Old Trafford in that time, but Southampton have drawn 3 of their last 4 at home against Manchester United and will feel there are still some vulnerabilities that can be exploited.

In saying that, Manchester United will be encouraged by the chances that both Tottenham Hotspur and Leeds United have created against Southampton and this could be a fairly entertaining game on the south coast to open the fourth round of Premier League fixtures.

Both teams scoring would not be a surprise, but I do think Manchester United will be able to play with much more swagger in this away game than we have seen in recent months. The win over Liverpool coupled with the players knowing that their manager is capable of making big decisions in terms of team selection should help and I do think Manchester United can snap their really poor recent away record.

From a confidence stand point, it is important for Manchester United to score first and I do think they can create enough chances to do that. As long as they don't give away goals like they did at Brentford, Manchester United can win this game that should produce two or more goals.

Brentford v Everton Pick: Thomas Frank will not have been happy with the early attitude and then some of the defending in Brentford's 3-2 loss at Fulham last weekend, but the attacking side of the game does give The Bees a real sting.

They have now scored at least twice in all 4 games played in all competitions this season and more impressive is the fact that 3 of those have been away from home. The manager won't ignore some of the help that Manchester United gave his Brentford team here in a 4-0 win two weeks ago, but Thomas Frank has to be pleased with what he has seen from his team when they do go forward.

Finding a balance between attack and defence is not going to be easy, while I do think Frank is someone that wants his team to get forward and express themselves. I certainly think they can do that against an Everton team who have lost 9 of their last 11 away Premier League games and who have not had a clean sheet in the top flight so far this season.

Some credit has to be given to Frank Lampard and his team about the way they have defended and Everton have not conceded a lot of goals. However, both Chelsea and Aston Villa created plenty and I do think that offers Brentford encouragement.

A bigger question for Everton is whether they can pose much of a threat when they have the ball- while the team have played some good football into the final third, the lack of a clinical and composed finisher has hurt Everton. It would be surprising if they were not able to cause problems for Brentford, but in the absence of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and the departure of Richarlison, the lack of a goalscorer has been a problem.

Demarai Gray has scored two in two, which will give him confidence, but the more consistent threat in this fixture is likely to come from Brentford.

With the goals being scored by Thomas Frank's men, I do think Brentford can do enough to secure a vital three points as they look to avoid second season syndrome in the top flight. Ivan Toney is showing he can produce at this level and he is the player that could make the difference and the feeling is that Brentford can make it three Premier League victories in a row against an Everton team still looking for consistent answers in the final third.

Brighton v Leeds United Pick: Both Brighton and Leeds United have made very strong starts to the Premier League and they have shown off a little of the squad depth as much changed starting elevens won League Cup ties against lower League opponents.

With unbeaten records to protect, the two meet on the south coast on Saturday and I think this will be a confident and entertaining match to watch. The two sides have both earned 7 points from a possible 9 in the Premier League, although something has to give on Saturday.

Brighton have won 3 times this season and all of those victories have been away from the Amex Stadium, while Leeds United have won 3 times and all at Elland Road. Both teams have settled for a draw in their sole home/away game respectively, although I do think both Graham Potter and Jesse Marsch will feel their teams could have won the game where they had to settle for a point.

The chances being created by both teams have to be respected, although I do think the early form has slightly favoured Brighton over Leeds United. While the two teams have been confident in the final third, Brighton have been a bit more convincing with their defending and have limited the chances that opponents have been able to create against them.

Last season both Premier League games between these teams ended in draws, but that was largely down to Brighton's wastefulness in front of goal. Previously they had found a finishing touch to their football when hosting Leeds United, and Brighton had won 5 in a row at home against them before the goalless draw between them here in November 2021.

Brighton's wastefulness and the Nick Pope performance means they failed to score in their first home game, but they have scored at least twice in the other fixtures played this season. As solid as the Leeds United results and performances have been, they have perhaps been a touch more fortunate than their hosts and I think that may show up here.

I expect Brighton to dominate the chances in front of goal and I think they can win this one, although this Leeds United team have to be respected. They are dangerous and have scored plenty of goals, but Brighton have looked pretty solid in the defensive third and I feel they can edge to the three points in this match between unbeaten opponents.

Chelsea v Leicester City Pick: You can sense there is a growing feeling that the Leicester City board and Brendan Rodgers could decide to part way, unless there is something significant that changes ahead of the final week of the transfer window.

Brendan Rodgers felt his squad needed some new blood at the end of last season, but Leicester City have not had the finances to support him and the potential sale of Wesley Fofana will be a blow. Teams have been circling James Maddison and Jamie Vardy too, while Youri Tielemens is another being linked with a move away and you do have to wonder if Rodgers may feel he can't take the squad any further.

The poor results and performances will not help.

Leicester City blew the 2-0 lead over Brentford on the opening day in an eventual draw, but they have deservedly lost at Arsenal and to Southampton last weekend. The latter defeat is really worrying as Leicester City were leading in that one too, but the departure of Kasper Schmeichel has left them vulnerable at the back and perhaps lacking some inspiration in attacking areas.

James Maddison is doing his best and has been a key player for Leicester City from an attacking sense, but the chances being given up are really worrying.

I think Chelsea will have their opportunities to take advantage, even if they have been lacking a Number Nine in their early fixtures. Creativity has not been a problem, but Chelsea need someone who can consistently provide the end product and that does not seem to be any player currently on their books.

Things are likely to change before September, but this current Chelsea squad should be able to manage against Leicester City. In recent seasons they have not enjoyed hosting The Foxes, but Leicester City look really vulnerable and short of confidence and a first goal for Chelsea could see them largely dominate the match.

Thomas Tuchel will be demanding a reaction from the 3-0 loss at Leeds United last Sunday and you have to believe a similar level to that produced against Tottenham Hotspur will be more than good enough for Chelsea against Leicester City.

The Foxes could play their part, but the goals being conceded makes it hard to believe they can earn a positive result for the fifth time in six visits to Stamford Bridge. Instead I expect Chelsea to have enough chances and eventually quality to convert and cover the Asian Handicap on their way to a first home three points of the season.

Liverpool v Bournemouth Pick: They travelled to Old Trafford as very, very strong favourites to beat rivals Manchester United again, but Liverpool were clearly second best on Monday night.

Now all the attention is on Liverpool who have surprisingly yet to have won a Premier League game this season and that despite facing Fulham, Crystal Palace and Manchester United. Jurgen Klopp's team have been favourites in all three games, strong favourites, but they have continued a bad habit from last season in conceding the first goal.

Jadon Sancho's strike on Monday means Liverpool have fallen behind in each of their last 7 Premier League games and injuries are not helping the cause. However, that would be a pretty poor excuse to use when you think of the quality still available and Klopp and the players will be demanding a much more focused effort all around.

Going forward Liverpool are still creating plenty of chances, but they do look to be missing Sadio Mane. Both Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez being on the sidelines hasn't helped as it has meant an over-reliance on Roberto Firmino who looks to have seen his best days in a Liverpool shirt.

I don't think the absences should be a factor on Saturday as Liverpool prepare to host a Bournemouth team who have conceded seven goals in losses to Manchester City and Arsenal combined. Scott Parker's team were well beaten in both games and he will be concerned with the early goals that his team have conceded in those defeats, especially as the approach has to be to frustrate Liverpool and see if defensive vulnerability remains in the home camp.

The Bournemouth players should certainly listen to Parker... I mean he was the last Premier League manager to earn a victory at Anfield from his time with Fulham.

After containing Liverpool early, Fulham broke to score on the stroke of half time and Scott Parker got his tactics spot on that day. That victory was against an injury hit Liverpool team too so there are similarities ahead of this fixture, although I do think Anfield will help the home players produce a big performance.

You ultimately cannot expect Liverpool to continue to be as wasteful in front of goal as they have been nor as sloppy as they have been in defensive situations. Bournemouth have not really shown much as a threat in the final third in any of their Premier League games this season in terms of number of chances created, and the defensive issues that were highlighted before the season have reared up in the defeats to Manchester City and Arsenal.

The same could potentially happen here if Liverpool can score the first goal and just play with a bit more confidence and I do think Jurgen Klopp's team will win their first League fixture on Saturday in some style.

Manchester City v Crystal Palace Pick: The dominance of Manchester City in recent seasons means they are going off plenty short in almost every Premier League fixture they will be playing and that is the case again on Saturday.

It fails to account for the fact that Crystal Palace took four points from Manchester City last season and Patrick Vieira's team did not concede a goal against one of his former clubs. Of course you will have to ride out some rough moments in being able to do that, but Crystal Palace were really solid in their game on this ground.

The 0-2 win at the Etihad Stadium means Crystal Palace have lost 1 of their last 4 visits to Manchester City and have to be considered something of a bogey team. That is especially the case considering The Eagles have won twice in that time and they have managed to score at least two goals in 3 of their last 4 games here.

After seeing Newcastle United hurt Manchester City last weekend, Crystal Palace have a further blueprint in how to attack the Champions and I do think they have quality in the final third. They showed that in the 1-1 draw at Anfield two weeks ago when only better finishing from Wilfried Zaha was needed to add to the goal he scored and perhaps earn Crystal Palace the win.

Pep Guardiola will be well aware how dangerous Crystal Palace can be and he will be looking for his Manchester City team to be much more resilient than they showed in the 3-3 draw at Newcastle United. There are clearly plenty of goals in the squad so you have to expect Manchester City to score in every game they play, even if they didn't against Crystal Palace last season, and the addition of Erling Haaland should help.

The injury to Nathan Ake to add to Aymeric Laporte is a blow, but Manchester City have looked very controlled in the games before the trip to St James' Park. I expect them to try and get back to basics in this one and avoid leaving Crystal Palace's wingers in one on one situations as they allowed Allan Saint-Maximin to dominate in the first half last Sunday.

This time Manchester City should be more settled without a first half injury to deal with and I do think they will be better for it.

Crystal Palace did score at Liverpool two weeks ago, but they did struggle for goals at the big six last season. They lost at Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur without scoring last season and even this very good looking attacking side produced by Patrick Vieira may struggle for the chances at the home of the Champions looking to show much better in their own final third than last week.

I do think Crystal Palace need to be respected when you think of the amount of goals they have plundered at the Etihad Stadium in recent years, but their sole defeat in their last 4 visits came in a game where they failed to score. I think that could be the outcome of this one with a much more focused Manchester City likely to be playing after the two fixtures between the clubs last season.

In fact Manchester City have earned 4 clean sheets in the last 6 between these clubs and a home win to nil looks a decent price.

Arsenal v Fulham Pick: A strong pre-season raised expectations, but the win at Crystal Palace on the opening weekend of the campaign has really gotten people to sit up and take notice.

After only just missing out on a top four place last season, Arsenal look to have done the business in the transfer market to not only close that gap, but to feel anything less than a Champions League spot is a failure. That does place some pressure on Mikel Arteta's shoulders as manager of the club, but he looks happy and the players look very comfortable as the last remaining team with a perfect record in the Premier League.

The win at Palace was very impressive, even if Arsenal had to ride their luck at times, but backing that up against Leicester City and Bournemouth was important. I am still not sure what I truly think of Arsenal because it has been a relatively kind start to the campaign, but momentum can be very important and back to back home games gives them a chance to build on the foundation already laid down.

You would expect Arsenal to beat Fulham and Aston Villa, but expectations are not always met.

They will have to respect a Fulham team that took a point from Liverpool already, although I do think Arsenal will be excited to attack a Fulham defence that has looked plenty leaky. Both Liverpool and Brentford scored twice at Craven Cottage and this Arsenal team have been creating plenty of chances in their first three wins in the League.

Fulham may feel the best approach is to fight fire with fire and that has worked in their opening games as they remain unbeaten on their return to the top flight. Defensively there may be questions, but Fulham did create plenty of their own attacking chances in the games played in the Premier League and they may feel they can play a part in this fixture.

However, keeping Arsenal out is going to be very difficult with the approach set out by Marco Silva and I don't think the manager is going to be changing his principles too far from what he likes to see. That worked against Liverpool, but at the Emirates Stadium it could leave Fulham open to the Arsenal final third threat and I do think the home team will win again and by two or more goals for the fourth time in August.

Aston Villa v West Ham United Pick: Both Steven Gerrard and David Moyes have some big expectations to meet this season, although the latter's recent successes means he has a bit more goodwill in the bank.

The rumours are that the Aston Villa board are getting a little worried about Steven Gerrard and the direction of the club. The fans are not happy with the style of football being produced, while the huge investment made in the last two transfer windows have yet to turn into much improved results on the field.

A falling out with Tyrone Mings had threatened to split the dressing room in two and Gerrard is under pressure after another capitulation from his team in the 3-1 defeat at Crystal Palace.

At least Aston Villa have won their sole home Premier League game and they are facing a West Ham United team who played on Thursday night and who have struggled for form in the Premier League. The 3 losses in the League without scoring a goal is a worry, although David Moyes will feel his team have shown enough in the final third to change that as quickly as this weekend.

West Ham United were unfortunate to lose at the City Ground earlier this month, but you cannot ignore the fact that they have lost 6 of their last 7 away Premier League games. The poor end to last season has seeped into this one and I do think that West Ham United have looked vulnerable at the back, which should be very encouraging for Aston Villa.

The Hammers have won on their last 2 visits to Villa Park and scored at least three goals in both of those wins.

I do think David Moyes will be encouraging his team to get on the front foot and they can cause problems for Aston Villa, but the home team should also be able to have their successes when getting the ball into the final third.

The last 4 Premier League games between the clubs have all seen both teams score and all have also ended with at least three goals shared out. With some of the defensive issues that have been clear to see in both the home and away performances, I think this is another that should see goals flowing.

Wolves v Newcastle United Pick: The first live game on Sunday involves Newcastle United, but it would be a real surprise if this matches the intensity and attacking output we saw when they hosted Manchester City.

The fixture ended 3-3 with so much quality on display in the final third, but Newcastle United may not find it so easy to find the energy to bring that intensity to the field again.

Eddie Howe has clearly got a tune out of the squad, but Callum Wilson could be a big miss for Newcastle United. They did not create very much in their goalless draw at Brighton a couple of weeks ago and only Nick Pope's brilliance ensured Newcastle United were able to leave with a point.

Defending may be a little more comfortable against a Wolves team who have been struggling for goals and who have been in poor form towards the back end of last season which has seeped into the new campaign.

Alexander Mitrovic missed a Penalty in the last Premier League fixture at Molineux and that is the only reason Wolves have earned a point so far this season. If Mitrovic scores, there is every chance Wolves would have been heading into this fixture with 3 losses from their last 4 Premier League games.

I expect Wolves to have some chances if Newcastle United defend as poorly as they did at Brighton, but I also don't think Wolves are as effective going forward.

They do have some talented attackers and I think they will be dangerous when they click together, but Wolves and Newcastle United should feel they can largely contain the other. Set pieces are going to be key, but no Callum Wilson is a blow for Newcastle United and Wolves are still struggling for goals.

Games between these clubs have seen both teams regularly find the net against one another and the layers feel that may be the case again. However, their most recent game ended with a clean sheet produced by Newcastle United and I do think we will see one of these teams fail to find the net with the defences expected to be on top.

Nottingham Forest v Tottenham Hotspur Pick: If the first game at the City Ground with Nottingham Forest back in the Premier League is anything to go by, this is going to be an incredibly difficult ground to visit.

The fans made it a raucous atmosphere and Nottingham Forest played some very strong attacking football which will make them dangerous regardless of who they host.

However, it would be a mistake to forget some of the fortune that seemed to favour Nottingham Forest in the 1-0 win over West Ham United. The visitors hit the woodwork twice, missed a Penalty and also had at least one effort cleared off the line, while the Nottingham Forest goal was scrappy to say the least.

Steve Cooper won't care too much about that and neither will the fans, but the former will be aware that it may not be a sustainable approach. He will be looking for his Nottingham Forest team to be a threat going forward, but Cooper will want a better balance defensively if Nottingham Forest are going to earn another big result.

They are facing a Tottenham Hotspur team who have started slowly in all three Premier League games played before turning the screw. Antonio Conte will be demanding his players begin much more confidently as they are likely going to have to deal with the early Nottingham Forest pressure, but I do think the quality can tell in favour of the visiting team.

If they create anything like West Ham United, I would expect the likes of Harry Kane and Heung-Min Son to produce better composure in front of goal. Scoring first will be important for Tottenham Hotspur and I do think it will be a tough time for Nottingham Forest if they do fall behind, even with the home fans behind them.

All three of their Premier League opponents have been much stronger when it comes to the chance creation numbers in matches played by Nottingham Forest this season. They were well beaten at Newcastle United, and I do think Tottenham Hotspur can just remind their hosts about the level they have to find in every Premier League fixture they play.

Nottingham Forest will never roll over at home, not with the fans giving the players a lift, but I do think the big six clubs will cause plenty of problems for them barring a big improvement defensively. We have yet to see that and Tottenham Hotspur may be able to cover the Asian Handicap in a win in the second of the two live games being played on Sunday.

MY PICKS: Manchester United & Over 1 Total Goal @ 2.10 Bet365 (2 Units)

Brentford @ 2.05 Bet365 (2 Units)

Brighton @ 1.91 Bet365 (2 Units)

Chelsea - 1.25 Asian Handicap @ 1.95 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Liverpool - 2.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.90 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Manchester City Win to Nil @ 1.83 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Arsenal - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.92 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Aston Villa-West Ham United Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.91 Bet365 (2 Units)

Wolves-Newcastle United Both Teams to Score- NO  @ 2.05 Bet Victor (2 Units)

Tottenham Hotspur - 1.25 Asian Handicap @ 2.09 Bet Victor (2 Units)

August 2022/23: 9-15, - 13.28 Units (48 Units Staked, - 27.67% Yield)

Fantasy Football GameWeek 4

Go big at the back... Go big at the back, you can't go wrong.

Well things went wrong, they went massively wrong last weekend.

That's right, my 'big at the back' team produced nine points between the six of them!

With that in mind, I am just glad to get out of GameWeek 3 with 47 points and look for much better in GameWeek 4.

I am going to hold a transfer in what is a very busy time of the season as teams choose to rotate players in a bid to keep everyone as fresh as possible.

Pep Guardiola has made it clear that he will not be expecting Erling Haaland to play every three days and so the premium striker becomes a question mark for me. Yes, Manchester City create enough chances to think that Haaland could get twenty minutes in any game and likely bring in significant points, but he becomes an uncertain Captaincy choice.

This week that comes down to Mo Salah or Gabriel Jesus, but my lean is towards the former. I expect Jesus to have a very strong game, but Bournemouth have looked slightly weaker than Fulham and the extra point for a midfielder scoring cannot be dismissed.

I've also moved Andy Robertson to my watch list- he has not played well this season and I would not be surprised if he is given a rest at some point. Unfortunately for my team, that looks most likely to happen this weekend against Bournemouth, although Liverpool's poor start should mean Jurgen Klopp picks a very strong team.

Joao Cancelo is another- he is not playing nearly as far up the field as last season and at the prices it feels that money can be spread around to improve the whole squad.

My really big decision this week comes down to who should be the first player I bench- Leon Bailey scored during the week and assisted Ollie Watkins last weekend and has a good looking home game against West Ham United, but Pascal Gross continues to return and plays a vulnerable Leeds United team.

It is not an easy choice, but the lean at this time is with Gross, but only just.

I will have two transfers to use before the Tuesday deadline, although at this stage I think it is good to have a few more games to add to the data before needing to make any decision as to who to bring in. It is a big weekend for some of the players in my squad and I am expecting a lot more points than GameWeek 3 brought home.