Premier League Picks

The wonderful team at Skysports has determined that Chelsea have the most difficult Christmas schedule while Man City have the easiest. But after Monday’s tactical clinic at the Brittania there is no stopping Chelsea on route to Premier League glory. They can win anyway you want; ugly, pretty, defensive, offensive, physical or free flowing. This team can do it all.

More from The Pride of London

Before we get to this week’s EPL matches, being that it’s the Festive season, I’d like to share a video that always brings a smile to my face as well as an article about a special relationship between former Barcelona teammates Dani Alves and Eric Abidal.

Chelsea vs. West Ham – Dec 26

Last season Big Sam came to Stamford Bridge, parked the bus and came away with a nil-nil draw. But this time around rumor has it that the new and improved Hammers will have a go at Chelsea, but that should play right into Chelsea’s hands, especially at home. Unlike last season they tend to score very early on in games, then lock the opponent down and put it away in the second half. And much like last season they are on pace to have the stingiest defense in the country. Playing first on Boxing Day, Chelsea will want to extend their lead over Man City to 6 points before they kickoff.

Pick: Double result – Chelsea to lead at half/full time (-125)

West Brom vs. Man City – Dec 26

Random Footy Fact: Manchester United are 17-2-1 all time on Boxing Day

Manchester City didn’t make the schedule but if they could have it would have looked something like this. Before facing Burnley at home on Sunday they visit the Hawthorns where West Brom have only earned 9 points in 9 matches. City have been unlucky with injuries but have galvanized themselves in spite of them. They’ve won 8 games in a row in all competitions, and have kept 4 consecutive clean sheets. To be blunt, they are a winning machine at the moment.

Pick: Man City -1 goal (Even)

Swansea vs. Aston Villa – Dec 26

Making a case for Christian Benteke to score is like trying to explain why snow may fall in the winter time. Though he may have been forgotten about after his injury last season, he’s without question a prolific striker who can score against any opponent at anytime. If you remember when Swansea played West Ham, no Swans defender was able to handle Andy Carroll in the box and he was able to get headers in on goal. Benteke will pose similar problems by land and air, and that spectacular goal versus Manchester United may have opened the flood gates.