English Premier League Weekly Predictions: Week 36

All eyes are on Manchester United. They are one of the most storied clubs in England's history, and they looked to be well on their way to 19th league title. Now, they have slowly made the title race an actual race again.

Even though Arsenal are practically eliminated, they and Chelsea have crept back into the conversation. Now, if Chelsea defeat Manchester United at Old Trafford, the Blues will be in first place based on goal differential. But, will it happen?

MATCH OF THE WEEK

Manchester United 2 Chelsea 1: No. It won't happen. As a Chelsea fan, I want to believe they will upset Ferguson's side, but I know better. A draw isn't out of the conversation, but United will not lose at Old Trafford. Even though the Blues have won eight of their last nine matches, a win at Old Trafford is tough to do. It's an unfortunate reality, but I'm nearly positive United will protect their home field.

I know better than to guarantee anything, but this is close to it. United were able to rest their starters in mid-week, and they will have a laser-sharp focus after last week's poor showing. Maybe I'm trying to jinx it, but let's be honest, betting against Sir Alex Ferguson (at Old Trafford, with the title on the line, facing a red-hot squad) is a fool's bet.

OTHER MATCHES

Aston Villa 1 Wigan Athletic 0: Aston Villa are surely safe, and Wigan are trying to escape relegation; however, Villa are just too talented to drop points to Wigan. A late goal could even the scoring, but I think Villa will hold strong at home and cause even more worry for Latics fans.

Bolton 2 Sunderland 1: Earlier in the season, this looked like it could have some implications on a top six spot. Now, that's pretty far from the truth. Both of these teams turned out to be a mirage, but they played the game well. Hopefully, we will see an entertaining match between two relatively mid-table teams.

Everton 1 Manchester City 0: City looked like they would compete for the title, but that turned out to be false. Inconsistency can kill you in the Premiership, and it killed City this year. Everton have kept steady, and that should lead them to three points this week.

Newcastle United 2 Birmingham City 0: It's nice to have Newcastle United back in the Premier League isn't it? Last year, they rolled through the Championship. This year, they took the league by storm. They have fallen off a bit since transferring Andy Carroll, but they are still a strong side that should win this week and cause a little tension for a Birmingham side that is not quite safe from relegation.

West Ham United 3 Blackburn 2: The Hammers are desperate. They have been in the relegation zone for nearly the entire season, and they need to make a strong push to climb out. If they win this week, they put themselves in a good position to escape. If they lose at Boleyn Ground this week, they will stand an extremely good chance of being Championship bound.

Tottenham Hotspur 3 Blackpool 1: As much as it hurts me, Blackpool may be leaving the Premier League. They are one of the most entertaining squads to watch, and I hope they find some magic to escape relegation. Unfortunately, teams like Spurs are just too talented to lose to the desperate Seasiders.

Wolves 1 West Bromwich Albion 2: Peter Odemwingie is in form, and he seems to always be in the right place at the right time. Wolves need to win this match badly, but I think the Baggies are going to steal three points.

Stoke City 1 Arsenal 2: Arsene Wenger's side salvaged some pride last week, but what does it mean? At what point do the Gunners start winning silverware? They always play an entertaining style, but when does that mean trophies? They had a legitimate shot of winning four trophies this year, and they were out of each race by the end of April. They should win again this week, but they need to identify what they want their club to be about this summer.

Fulham 1 Liverpool 3: Liverpool have been cruising, and they should continue at Craven Cottage this week. They are battling Spurs for a top five finish, and based on their recent play (outscored their opponent 18-4 in the last seven matches), no one should bet against this rejuvenated squad.

Manchester City 3 Tottenham Hotspur 2: This is a bonus match this week. It will probably be an open game, and goals should flow. Don't expect either team to be at their best after their clashes on Saturday, but the multiple goals should provide for an entertaining match.

Last Week: 4-3-3 (W-L-D)

Season: 154-79-86 (W-L-D)

It will be an entertaining weekend, and many races could be decided. United can lock up the title, and West Ham can all but solidify a trip to the Championship next year. Regardless of what you want to happen (United loss, Hammers victory for me), it will be a great weekend to watch some quality matches.