Sanford's Premiership Predictions

Charlton vs. Liverpool

There is no doubt in my mind that Charlton will be playing in the Championship next year. Replacing Dowie has done absolutely nothing and with a free-scoring Liverpool coming to The Valley I expect another lousy afternoon for the Addicks. It’s shocking to think how poor this side will be if Darren Bent leaves in January.

0-2

Arsenal vs. Portsmouth

‘Arry ain’t got no strikers and that spells trouble for Pompey. The Gunners have yet to lose at the Emirates and I can’t see that changing come Saturday. It’s a shame that Kanu can’t face his old mates, especially since he’s on song at the moment. Mendes will return for Portsmouth but Arsenal will do the business.

3-1

Newcastle vs. Watford

Suddenly Gaffer Roeder has the Geordie’s on the move. Former Inter man Obefemi Martins looked the real deal last weekend and if he continues to score frowns could turn upside down in the northeast. You’ve got to feel for Watford, though. They’re giving all they’ve got but it’s obviously not enough. Without goals, they’ll go down.

3-0

Reading vs. Blackburn

I can’t tell what’s going on with Blackburn – they’re all over the map. I do like Reading’s consistency and with Blackburn in action this week, look for Reading to ease to a home win. They’ve practically done enough to stay up, but as they should, they maintain a hunger that should see them finish comfortably mid-table. Blackburn have some classy lads but I fear their European campaign could land them in the bottom five come May.

3-1

Wigan vs. Sheffield United

Wigan were a bit unlucky not to take a point off The Arsenal at midweek and I see them winning handily here. United have had a nice run but Wigan are too tough for them, especially at the JJB.

2-1

Aston Villa vs. Bolton

What? A draw say you? I’d have to agree. Bolton have been playing their best football in years and Big Sam has his men playing well beyond their hoof it and run reputation. With Diouf in the mood and Kevin Davies poaching with aplomb, Bolton look destined for a European spot. But O’Neill won’t let it be easy and the Villains have perfected the art of The Point.

1-1

Everton vs. Chelsea

Normally this fixture would give those chasing the top two reason to hope, but with Everton’s injury list I can’t see them giving the Champions any problems.

0-2

Manchester City vs. Tottenham

It’s a classic case of home stronghold versus away woes. Citeh continue to do the business in their park while Spurs pull the Jekyll and Hyde and are very Hyde away from White Hart Lane. Mind you, Spurs have been on it a bit of late but they’ve done this sort of thing before…get on a roll and then revert to some astonishingly poor form. I see a draw.

2-2

West Ham vs. Manchester United

One of the surprises of the season for me is how consistent ManU have been so far. They’ve been extremely balanced and have dealt with some injuries quite well. West Ham will be boosted by Curbishly’s arrival, but even though this contest kicks off at Upton Park, I can’t see the Hammers getting a result.

0-1

Fulham vs. Middlesbrough

You’ve got to fancy Fulham at home here. They’ve been flying at the Cottage and Boro don’t exactly inspire fear on their travels. I worry for Boro and could see them fighting relegation come April.

2-0