Alan Shearer has shared his predictions for the FA Cup final and the upcoming Premier League fixtures, offering insights into the key matches this weekend. The FA Cup takes centre stage on Saturday, but the Premier League continues with a packed schedule of games spread across five days.
FA Cup Final: Manchester City vs Chelsea
Shearer believes Manchester City will edge a closely contested final, despite Chelsea showing signs of improvement. 'It is really interesting that City have lost the last two finals as favourites. I did the co-comms last year for that game when Palace beat them. Chelsea showed slight improvement last week against Liverpool despite going 1-0 down. I just think because of the mood that City are in, the belief and the confidence, they’ll edge it. I know that City still give you chances, even watching the game against Crystal Palace, they missed two or three really good chances. I think there’ll be a lot of goals in this, but I think Man City will edge it just.' Prediction: Manchester City win.
Premier League Predictions
Aston Villa vs Liverpool
Shearer backs Aston Villa to win at home, citing their strong atmosphere and Liverpool's defensive frailties. 'It’s a tough couple of weeks, but it could be a brilliant couple of weeks for Villa if they go on and win the Europa League final, and get into the Champions League. And again, Liverpool are defensively really poor still. I’m going to go for a home win with it being at Villa Park. It’s always a great atmosphere.' Prediction: Aston Villa win.
Manchester United vs Nottingham Forest
Despite both teams having little to play for, Shearer tips Manchester United due to home advantage. 'I’d only go for Man United just because they’re at home. No other reason than that. Both teams don’t have a lot to play for, so a Man United home win for me. Michael Carrick deserves to go again next season and to be given the chance to try and rebuild and improve them like he has this season. How long his contract will be, we’ll have to wait and see, but it sounds like he’s going to be given the chance, and I agree with that. I think he’s done a great job and deserves the chance to go.' Prediction: Manchester United win.
Brentford vs Crystal Palace
Shearer expects Brentford to win, as Palace may rotate their squad. 'I think with Palace and their team selection over the next week or two games, it is understandable. They’re entitled to do whatever they want; it’s their team and they can plan and prepare for whatever game they want. That’s why I would go for a home win for Brentford, as they’ve got bigger things on the horizon in the league.' Prediction: Brentford win.
Everton vs Sunderland
Home advantage again sways Shearer towards Everton. 'With it being at home, I’ll say Everton. That’s the only reason. I think Sunderland have certainly slowed their pace down over the past couple of months. So, with Everton being at home, I’d say a home win.' Prediction: Everton win.
Leeds vs Brighton
Shearer predicts a draw, noting Leeds' desire to finish well. 'I think Leeds will want to sign off on a good result at home, and I think they can be really pleased with how it’s gone for the most part this season. They’re safe, which is a huge achievement anyway, because at times it did look as if they were in trouble. I’m going to go for a draw on this one. I think it’ll be a point apiece.' Prediction: Draw.
Wolves vs Fulham
Despite Fulham's poor form, Shearer backs them to win due to Wolves' struggles. 'Fulham haven’t been great, but Wolves have been a lot worse. I know they’re at home, but I’ve got no confidence or belief in them whatsoever, so I’m going to say a Fulham away win.' Prediction: Fulham win.
Newcastle vs West Ham
Shearer expects Newcastle to win, putting pressure on West Ham. 'West Ham are fighting for their lives. They know they have to come up to Newcastle and get something. I’m not sure they will, to be honest. I think there’ll be a lot of noise if Newcastle don’t win that game, and for that reason, I’m going to say a Newcastle home win. A lot could be decided this weekend because of the result of this game.' Prediction: Newcastle win.
Arsenal vs Burnley
Shearer believes Arsenal will overcome nerves to beat Burnley. 'When you look at the two games Arsenal have got, you’d have to say they’ve got one hand on the title and are ready to put the other one on it. I don’t see them slipping up against Burnley. There will be nerves; I don’t think they’d be human if there were no nerves. I’ve been in that position myself. But having said that, I think once they get that first goal, that’ll all be alleviated.' Prediction: Arsenal win.
Bournemouth vs Manchester City
Shearer predicts a draw, praising Bournemouth's season. 'Bournemouth have had an unbelievable season. I’ve said it loads of times in terms of their recruitment, what they sold last summer to what they’ve got now and where they are. They deserve great credit, and I think this one could be a draw. Everyone keeps saying Arsenal have to win both games, but they might not have to depending on what happens with City. So, I’m going to say a draw.' Prediction: Draw.
Chelsea vs Tottenham
Despite both teams having poor seasons, Shearer backs Chelsea at home. 'Both teams in the league have had a season to forget. However, when these two teams face each other these games are always tight, and there’s always plenty to talk about in these games, but I’m going to go for a Chelsea home win.' Prediction: Chelsea win.
