We’re back for another round of Premier League predictions – this week, two of our writers will be going head-to-head.
Jimmy Johnson will be taking on Jen Harrison – previously, Essential Football has played against Danny Murphy, Carlton Cole and ChatGPT.
Leeds United vs Nottingham Forest
Jimmy Johnson: Leeds have been much more successful at Elland Road than they have away from home this season – a familiar story for long-time Whites fans. Nottingham Forest, however, have been decent on the road and are in resurgent form.
With that being said, Leeds are a strong goalscoring team, despite their lowly league position. They should be able to pick up a crucial win over the Trees here, though they’ll certainly have to work hard for it.
JJ’s Prediction: Leeds United 2-1 Nottingham Forest
Jen Harrison: These two sides are now level on points and both are desperate not to involve themselves in a relegation battle.
Nottingham Forest have come into more recognisable form recently while Leeds have been pretty consistent with putting up a fight against even the toughest opponents. Neither team is going to make it easy on the other here.
JH’s Prediction: Leeds United 1-1 Nottingham Forest
Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur
Jimmy Johnson: Michael Carrick has been a godsend at Manchester United. With three wins out of three, including victories over Manchester City and Arsenal, no one can stop the Red Devils express at the moment.
Tottenham, meanwhile, are out of sorts. Carrick’s direct, high-tempo style of play will cause Thomas Frank’s men nightmares – I’m anticipating a big win for United here.
JJ’s Prediction: Manchester United 3-0 Tottenham Hotspur
Jen Harrison: Manchester United produced hard-fought, statement wins over Man City and Arsenal recently.
They have also become a real threat with late goals, which I can see coming to their aid again this weekend. Spurs will put up a fight but I can’t imagine it being enough for a result here.
*JH‘s Prediction:* Manchester United 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur
Bournemouth vs Aston Villa
Jimmy Johnson: At first glance, this looks like a straightforward away win for Aston Villa, but you have to remember that Bournemouth are in good form – Villa cannot say the same.
Unai Emery’s men have lost three of their last six Premier League games – the loss of Youri Tielemans will be a hammer blow. A low-scoring draw seems like the most likely outcome here.
JJ’s Prediction: Bournemouth 1-1 Aston Villa
Jen Harrison: Bournemouth have been a frustrating side for the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool in recent weeks. Their attack has made things difficult for those higher up the table and we can expect the same trickiness against Aston Villa too.
Recent frustrations for Villa, including defeats to Everton and Brentford, show that despite their challenge in the top four, they have their weaknesses.
*JH’s Prediction:* Bournemouth 2-2 Aston Villa