Everton vs Manchester City
Might as well get this one out of the way first because there’s only one way this is going. Everton would have struggled to beat Man City at the best of times but with injuries to Doucouré, Rodríguez and both of their first and second choice goalkeepers the task will be near impossible. Not to mention the fact Everton just lost their 7th home game of the season to Burnley. With a patched up side and an inexperienced goalkeeper against this well oiled Man City machine. I think it will be a comfortable win for Pep’s men.
Prediction - Everton 0-3 Man City
Bournemouth vs Southampton
When the draw was made for this one most Southampton fans will have been ecstatic. However, their early season form has now completely deserted them and they have taken a nose dive down the table. A recent South Coast Derby loss to relegation threatened Brighton compounded their misery. As for Bournemouth, they’ve had a steady season since their return to the championship and are in the hunt for a play off spot. That said, they don’t look like a side who will comfortably secure a spot in the top 6 and will no doubt face a battle with the likes of Barnsley and Reading for the chance to return to the Premier League. Despite Southampton’s recent form, I still think they’ll be good enough to see off Bournemouth. But only just.
Prediction - Bournemouth 1-2 Southampton
Leicester vs Manchester Utd
This is the tie of the round as the Premier League’s 3rd and 2nd placed sides face off for a place in the Semi Finals. Leicester have done very well to cope with their recent injuries and maintain their push for the top four, which they capped off with a 5-0 thumping of Sheffield Utd last time out. Man Utd have got back to winning in ways in recent weeks after victories against West Ham and Man City in the Manchester Derby. Leicester have handled the losses of Maddison and Barnes brilliantly but you need your best players in games like this, which is why I think United will edge it.
Prediction: Leicester 0-1 Man Utd
Chelsea vs Sheffield Utd
Chelsea look a top side under Tuchel, more like the side that everyone expected them to be when the season started. The blues come into this off the back of a resounding 3-0 aggregate win against La Liga leaders Atlético Madrid and their confidence will be sky high. Contrast that with Premier League basement boys Sheffield Utd who are now facing certain relegation, have just lost their manager and followed that up by getting thumped 5-0 at Leicester. I expect Sheffield to react in some way and try to keep it tight and restrict Chelsea. However, Tuchel’s men will have too much for the blades in the end.
Prediction - Chelsea 2-0 Sheffield Utd
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