Premier League Predictions: Week 5

Raj Ramanathan

Welcome back to another week of Premier League predictions. Another week in the books and no change in the top two, but heavy movement in the middle to the bottom area. We’ve been surprised throughout the first few weeks, let's see what the next stretch has in store for us.

The Game of the Week

Fulham (5-4-6) v Crystal Palace (5-4-5)

Fulham: After a surprising week last week, Fulham has come out on top of Crystal Palace. Both teams have done significantly better this year than last year and hope to continue to keep it that way. Fulham has developed a stronger core and is less reliant on long balls. Their tika taka speed has improved, especially against a stagnant Crystal Palace defense. 

Leeds United(4-3-7) v Manchester City (10-2-2)

Manchester City: Manchester City has come off of a loss and a hard battle for first place, but they should have no problem against Leeds. I see Manchester using their outstanding skill to go up by a few goals early on. Manchester City is on a title pursuit and any game from now on is vital to how they portray their franchise. Joao Concelo has come back into the lineup, adding a lethal weapon back into the lineup.

Wolves (2-4-9) v Everton (3-5-7)

Everton: These 2 teams are nearing the bottom of the standings; however, neither team has performed how they would have liked thus far in the season. This game will be a scrappy one with the team who has more patience coming out on top. I see Everton having an advantage and winning the game this week.

Southampton (3-3-9) v Brighton (6-3-5)

Brighton: The Blues have the obvious upper hand in this game, due to their skill and class on the ball. Their record reflects how well they've exceeded fans' expectations this season and how well they will continue to do so. Brighton started strong through the first few weeks but need to spark it back up after last week's loss. Unless Southampton attacks instantly, I see Brighton winning this game.

Liverpool (6-4-4) v Aston Villa (5-3-7)

Liverpool: Liverpool has a better squad and should have no problem putting this game away sooner rather than later. Liverpool needs this game to go in their favor as they strive to win the league. They should be able to see this game out to the end using their squad depth.

Newcastle (8-6-1) v Leicester City (5-2-8)

Newcastle: Newcastle is the talk of the town and will proceed in this fashion if they keep it up. They have managed to stay in the top three for a while and need to make a late-season push. Leicester on the other hand has made a comeback but still is in the trenches of the standings.

Nottm Forest (3-4-8) v Manchester United (8-2-4)

Manchester United: What a game it was last week as United regained control of their team. Last week, they came out strong and took the game out from right under them. They have stepped back into the top six. I would like to see Anthony getting involved in this week's game to take it past Nottm Forest.

West Ham (2-4-8) v Arsenal (11-1-1)

Arsenal: Arsenal is a key player in this year's cup race, and has continued to display success from the beginning of the season. Regardless of player and manager disputes, their club has its eyes on the prize and will have no problem this week against West Ham.

Tottenham (9-2-4) v Brentford (4-7-4)

Tottenham: I see this being a fun game to watch for Tottenham fans, but not a pretty game for the rest. Both teams have recently been put in the spotlight after a great comeback from the first few games. Brentford has surprised fans but continues to stay in the bottom half of the table.

Chelsea (6-3-5) v Bournemouth (4-4-7) 

Chelsea: Chelsea has taken a few steps back when it comes to class and how well they operate in terms of standings as they are lacking severely. They continue to underperform, but when it comes to Bournemouth, they will have the upper hand in terms of budget and players. I see them putting this game away.