ClapEveryone loves a good derby day regardless of what league it may be in, but in the English Premier League, there just seems to be a different media vibe and atmosphere surrounding some of the biggest rivalries.
This weekend, there are going to be three derbies taking place that are all incredibly different from one another – but that doesn’t make them any less important. There are stakes riding on the result of all three, and whether it be in Manchester, Wolverhampton or London, there are bound to be some fireworks.
We aren’t going to pretend like it’s going to be the same without fans being in attendance because we’d be lying to you. Everyone wants to see supporters in the stands on a weekend like this one, even if you’re just a neutral who fancies watching a bit of footy on the box.
Today, we’re going to run through the three games and attempt to figure out what exactly is going to happen as this bizarre top flight season continues to throw up surprises at every available turn.
Manchester United vs Liverpool
Manchester United, to the surprise of many, currently sit three points clear at the top of the Premier League table – which is a sentence that many would’ve considered to be absolutely insane at the start of the season, and rightly so.
However, credit where credit is due, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has turned this ship around in a way that few could’ve imagined. Liverpool have had a decent amount of injuries but some of the blame still needs to go on the shoulders of Jurgen Klopp, and on Sunday, all eyes are going to be on the final few minutes as we know both clubs love some late drama.
Prediction: Manchester United 0-2 Liverpool
Wolves vs West Brom
For the first time in almost nine years, Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Bromwich Albion will collide in the Black Country derby. The Baggies have typically had the edge over their rivals in this fixture but even with Wolves struggling in the last few weeks, West Brom fans still aren’t feeling particularly confident.
Their one positive coming into the game will be that Sam Allardyce is well aware of how important this fixture is to the club’s fanbase, but on the flip side, Wolves captain Conor Coady feels the same way.
Prediction: Wolves 2-1 West Brom
Fulham vs Chelsea
The West London derby is rarely given too much attention but we think this could be a crucial turning point for both sides this season. Chelsea are hobbling along after a string of poor performances, whereas the Cottagers have become really difficult to beat under Scott Parker’s guidance.
This is not as easy of a game to predict as many would have you believe, but when push comes to shove, we think Frank Lampard will be able to motivate his players in a way that ensures they come out of this with their hand raised. It definitely isn’t going to be pretty, but they’ll do what they have to do to win.
Prediction: Fulham 1-2 Chelsea
