Premier League legend Alan Shearer has delivered his expert forecasts for the upcoming weekend's fixtures, highlighting a crucial test for league leaders Arsenal.
Key Fixtures Analysed by Shearer
With the Premier League heading into another packed schedule following a full midweek programme, Shearer, speaking as a Betfair ambassador to Metro, has broken down the major clashes. The standout match sees Mikel Arteta's Arsenal travel to face an in-form Aston Villa on Saturday. Shearer pointed to Villa's fantastic run of form as a major obstacle for the Gunners, who are coming off a demanding week against Tottenham, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea.
"The run that Villa are on is fantastic, they are flying," Shearer said. "Arsenal have had a big test in the last seven days... Now it's another really important week for them." Citing fitness concerns and Villa's momentum, Shearer has predicted a draw at Villa Park.
Surprise Picks and Tough Calls
Shearer's predictions include several notable calls. He is backing a resurgent Nottingham Forest, under Sean Dyche, to secure an away win at inconsistent Everton. He also believes Chelsea will bounce back from their midweek performance to win at Bournemouth, despite the Cherries' own struggles.
One of his most surprising forecasts is for Leeds United to beat Liverpool at Elland Road. "I can't say Liverpool are going to win, I find it difficult to say," Shearer explained, questioning the Reds' current form and highlighting the intimidating atmosphere awaiting them.
Weekend Predictions in Full
Here is a summary of Alan Shearer's predictions for the key matches in Game Week 15:
Aston Villa vs Arsenal: Draw.
Everton vs Nottingham Forest: Nottingham Forest win.
Newcastle vs Burnley: Newcastle win.
Manchester City vs Sunderland: Manchester City win.
Tottenham vs Brentford: Draw.
Bournemouth vs Chelsea: Chelsea win.
Leeds vs Liverpool: Leeds win.
Brighton vs West Ham: Brighton win.
Fulham vs Crystal Palace: Crystal Palace win.
Wolves vs Manchester United (Monday): Manchester United win.
Shearer expressed little confidence in his prediction for Manchester United's Monday night trip to Wolves, citing the host's terrible goalscoring form, but felt their poor run would continue. The weekend's action concludes with that fixture at Molineux on Monday, December 8th.
