MY ACCOUNT
Burnley’s remarkable resurgence under Mike Jackson can continue against Aston Villa as they look to take another step towards Premier League survival.
Not much was expected from the Clarets when they parted company with Sean Dyche following a disappointing 2-0 defeat at Norwich.
But Jackson’s positive approach has paid dividends with three wins in a row making it 10 points from a possible 12.
Those victories came over Southampton, Wolves and Watford, with the Lancashire club managing 17 shots on target across the trio of fixtures.
The Turf Moor outfit had a specific style of play under Dyche that was not always easy on the eye and their average possession statistic of 39% is the lowest in Europe’s top leagues this season, while no team has a worse pass completion rate.
That all changed at Vicarage Road last week when Jackson’s men finished with 54% of the ball and it is clear this new attitude is bringing out the best in the likes of Dwight McNeil, Wout Weghorst and Matej Vydra.
Villa have taken four points from their last two games but one of those matches was at home to Norwich and the other was a goalless stalemate at Leicester, who had become distracted by European commitments.
Before that, Steven Gerrard’s side had lost four in a row and the hosts look the value bet.
Blues to cruise against Wolves
Chelsea should oblige as heavy favourites against Wolves at Stamford Bridge — but one way of boosting the odds could be a home victory in a match featuring under 3.5 goals.
Thomas Tuchel’s men seem to be playing within themselves at the moment as they focus on the upcoming FA Cup final, although the visitors are unlikely to take advantage.
Bruno Lage’s side have lost their last three matches and failed to score in any of those clashes.
All seven of their away league losses have featured no more than three goals and 14 of their 17 away games have also gone under 2.5 goals.
The past two meetings between these two sides have also all ended goalless.
Do not bank on Amex winner
Those who have bet on draws in Brighton or Manchester United matches this season have usually had a good run for their money and the stalemate stands out at the Amex.
The Seagulls have finished level on 14 occasions this season and draws have also held back United, who have shared the spoils on 10 occasions.
There is not a huge amount riding on the fixture — the Red Devils seem destined for the Europa League and the only real aim for Graham Potter’s men is a top-half finish meaning this is likely to be a tight encounter.
Vieira to show Hodgson who is boss
Crystal Palace look a better side this season under Patrick Vieira compared to Roy Hodgson’s time in charge and it is likely to be a miserable Selhurst Park return for the current Watford boss.
Hodgson’s side have lost five in a row and a sixth defeat here will relegate the Hornets.
Palace won 2-1 at Southampton last week and Saints may not bounce back with Brentford fancied to oblige for favourite backers in West London.
