EPL 2011/12: Arsenal vs Chelsea Match Previews and More

With the English Premier League season nearing its conclusion, it's fair to assume that it is all to play for in terms of championship glory, relegation battle and champions league spots. Here's a look at the most important games taking place on April 21.

Arsenal vs Chelsea (12.45pm KO)

Well this is a huge game for both teams in terms of champions league places up for grabs. Arsenal currently have that third spot, and are seven points ahead of their London rivals, Chelsea.

The Gunners will be looking to bounce back from a shocking 2-1 defeat to Wigan at the Emirates, whilst Chelsea continue their strange season. The Blues are in sixth position in the league, in the final of the FA Cup and still in contention for a final place in this season's champions league final.

It's a tough one for Di Matteo, if he doesn't make the top four in the league, he will have to win the competition this year. Something that no previous Chelsea manager has managed to achieve. But with a shockingly deserved one nil win over Barcelona, Chelsea are in the driving seat.

After that pulsating game at Stamford Bridge against Barcelona, Chelsea gave a lot, therefore, expect changes to be made. Didier Drogba is officially out with a knee injury, and Ivanovic is banned. Expect Torres, Sturridge, and Essien to start.

Arsenal are missing Mikel Arteta for the rest of the season, Benayoun is ineligible. Diaby and Koscielny are back in the Arsenal squad.

On paper Arsenal look the stronger squad especially with their recent form against the big teams. But anything can happen. This game is impossible to predict. I'm sure all fans would love a repeat of the 5-3 game between the two sides earlier in the season. Plenty, plenty of goals.

Prediction: Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea

I think Chelsea will have a go, but the core players who played on Wednesday night will get tired and Arsenal will pick them off. If Arsenal played like they did against Manchester City then I expect a home win.

Newcastle vs Stoke (15.00 KO)

Newcastle are the team in form looking for their six successive win when Stoke come to the Sports Direct Arena.

Alan Pardew could welcome back players such as Obertan, Guthrie, and Perch. Cheick Tiote is expected to start after the player wished to remain at the club for many more seasons.

It's fair to say that Pardew has made a key signing as Cisse, the new No. 9, is feeling at home with 10 goals already this season.  He is becoming one of the most feared strikers in the division.

Newcastle have emerged as surprise challengers for a champions league spot. If Pardew's men go the season unbeaten, then anything is possible.

Stoke have doubts over Pennant, Wilkinson is back in the team, and Diao and Sidibe are both ruled out.Stoke have not won an away game in their last seven trips, and the signs don't look good for this one either.

Prediction: Newcastle 2-0 Stoke

Pardew's men are full of confidence, and I expect them to carry on their recent form with a convincing victory here.

QPR vs Tottenham (17.30 KO)

Djibril Cisse is back for QPR after a four- match ban.

QPR have done major damage this season at home with wins against Liverpool and Arsenal. Are they going to shock Spurs in this London derby?

Tottenham are in need of a desperate win after losing seven games on the trot. It wasn't so long ago that Spurs were 10 points ahead of Arsenal, but now Redknapp's troops find themselves five points behind their North London rivals. This is a must-win game for Spurs.

QPR have to win their home games if they want to survive and are currently in 17th place, only two points clear of the relegation zone.The likes of Joey Barton, Zamora, Cisse and Taraabt have a big part to play, and of course, the whole team needs to keep 11 players on the field.

QPR have a horrendous disciplinary record with seven red cards this season. If they keep all men on the field, they have every chance of causing another upset.

Prediction: QPR 2-2 Spurs

I think both teams will have a go and there will be goals in this game. It's a close one to call, Spurs have just lost in a cup and if QPR's key men turn up then expect a fire cracker. Either team can win this one closely, but I'm going for the draw.