Bournemouth v West Ham United

At the time of writing, West Ham sit in 15th place and Bournemouth are in 16th place, with just two points separating the two teams. Up until recently, Bournemouth were probably favourites, with the Hammers languishing in the relegation zone.

However, since David Moyes became manager at the Olympic Stadium, he has improved his team’s fitness and will to win. This is clear from their win over champions, Chelsea, an away draw against Arsenal and an emphatic 3-0 win over Stoke pulling them out of trouble. Bournemouth are hanging on, but don’t seem particularly vital at the moment.

Prediction: 1-2

Chelsea v Brighton and Hove Albion

After a decent start, newly-promoted Brighton have lost four of their last six matches, while Chelsea have won four of theirs. However, the champions’ opening-day defeat at home to Burnley and their recent loss to struggling West Ham shows the Blues are far from unbeatable.

Despite this, it would be foolish to bet against Chelsea for this match and most of the top 10 bookies agree.

Prediction: 4-1

Crystal Palace v Arsenal

Languishing at the foot of the table for much of the season, Crystal Palace have enjoyed resurgence of late under new manager, Roy Hodgson, and now lie in 14th place. Arsenal are 5th, but the Gunners are also inconsistent – a turgid display at home in 1-1 draw against West Ham being a case in point.

As they’re on a high, Palace could be a roll following their impressive 3-0 win over Leicester. We don’t think they’ll win, but they could squeeze a convincing draw out of this match. However, it’s worth noting that Arsenal have the most rest of any team over the over festive period and will looking to take advantage of a tired Palace.

Prediction: 1-2

Huddersfield Town v Stoke City

Currently in 11th place in the table, Premier League newbies Huddersfield are doing better than most thought they would. Meanwhile, Stoke City are in a downward decline that is threatening Mark Hughes’ position as boss at the Bet365 Stadium. Whereas Stoke’s home ground is no longer the fortress is once was, Huddersfield’s convincing wins against Manchester United and Watford mean they should not be underestimated.

Prediction: 2-0

Liverpool v Swansea City

While not the most consistent this season, Liverpool rarely lose to much-lesser opposition, especially at home. By contrast, Swansea are propping up the bottom of the table and look likely to be relegated after several seasons in the top flight.

Prediction: 4-0

Manchester United v Burnley

Manchester United rarely lose at home. And despite some dreary performances, the Red Devils are in second place behind local rivals, City. On paper, this looks like a clear win for United, but Burnley are having a great season and are currently 6th. We predict that Burnley will put up a fight, but we reckon United will come through as winners (probably by the skin of their teeth – again).

Prediction: 2-1