PREMIER LEAGUE

Aston Villa v West Ham

It's not been a great few weeks for Villa but they will be looking to put the pressure on Everton in the run-in to the season.

Gianfranco Zola and Steve Clarke have done a fantastic job with West Ham but they are down to the bare bones.

Verdict: 2-0

Middlesbrough v Fulham

Last week's victory over Hull was a big result for Middlesbrough after what was their lowest ebb following the 4-1 defeat at Bolton.

Fulham have produced some good results of late themselves but I feel the tide may have turned now for 'Boro, who will draw on the home support at the Riverside.

Verdict: 2-1

Portsmouth v Bolton

Portsmouth just can't seem to get that vital, elusive win at the moment but I think this might be their opportunity as Bolton have been poor on the road.

I can't envisage this being a classic and will most likely be a nervy and tense affair. It's all about just getting over the finishing line for these two.

Verdict: 2-1

Stoke v Blackburn

Stoke have been very strong at home and once again will be inspired by a passionate home crowd at the Britannia Stadium. One more win and I think they could be safe.

Blackburn didn't show up against Liverpool last week and are missing a lot of key players, as shown by Christopher Samba playing up front on his own at Anfield.

Verdict: 2-0

Sunderland v Hull

Despite losing to Manchester United last weekend, Sunderland showed plenty of passion. Hull, though, are in freefall and cannot seem to get a grip on games at the moment.

Neither side has won for a long time so I can't see this being a great match but if Sunderland put in another performance like last weekend it should be enough.

Verdict: 2-0

SUNDAY - PREMIER LEAGUE

Tottenham v Newcastle (1330 BST)

Tottenham are now looking up instead of down and will attack at home which will mean they create chances but leave themselves open at the back.

The changes Alan Shearer made with 25 minutes to go in the match against Stoke last week made a big difference and I feel Newcastle may have turned a corner.

Verdict: 1-1

Man City v West Brom

Although they are coming into the game off the back of the Uefa Cup tie on Thursday, Manchester City's home form has been very good this season, barring the blip against Fulham last week.

Unfortunately for West Brom they look doomed now and are very suspect at the back so I expect a City win.

Verdict: 2-0