Premier League Predictions: Round 37

Last week was a pretty tough round - I have been away on holiday so was actually quite glad that I didn't have to watch Saturday's action which saw me manage precisely 0 correct Superbru picks. Fortunately, a relatively good Sunday and an exact for the United Chelsea game got me level with the community average so clearly plenty of you also struggled!

This week's round isn't the easiest and I think it's important to keep in mind that we often see quite a few goals in the games where teams have little to play for and there's more freedom. Playing for pride doesn't always result in terrible performances; just ask Fulham.

Here are my thoughts on each of the Round 37 fixtures.

Everton vs. Burnley

Everton have been flying at home so they should take this but it won't be easy. I always enjoy these Friday/Monday night 5-a-side fantasy rounds with just the one game as you can be pretty certain of who will be the most popular pick in each band and then take a risk or play safe based on your pool standings. Though I may go all Everton as I expect them to win, I picked Ashley Barnes against Chelsea which went OK and if the Clarets are to score there's a good chance it'll be him doing so or assisting his strike partner Chris Wood. Prediction: Everton 3-1 Burnley

Bournemouth vs. Tottenham

This one is hard to judge as Tottenham lost a London derby last week with one eye on Ajax so they now need to respond despite having the second leg of their UCL semi-final up next. However, with that game in Amsterdam on Wednesday, I don't see any reason why Spurs can't go full pelt here and get their qualification for next year's Champions League confirmed. They have a good record against Bournemouth and should edge if it they're focused. Prediction: Bournemouth 1-2 Tottenham

West Ham vs. Southampton

It's almost pointless trying to predict how West Ham will perform as they've been so inconsistent. I see Southampton as a decent side but will they rest up a bit now they've managed survival which was a real grind? The Hammers could have several players returning including Sanchez, Nasri and Lanzini so let's go with them to edge an entertaining game. Prediction: West Ham 3-2 Southampton

Wolves vs. Fulham

Another tricky one because Fulham are suddenly the form team in the league along with the big two! Wolves managed a really good win last week at Watford and that 7th spot is now theirs to lose. I don't often back them against the lower teams but I think they'll find a way this weekend as Nuno must have been working out a better plan for playing against low blocks. Prediction: Wolves 2-0 Fulham

Cardiff vs. Crystal Palace

Cardiff have to win this to stand any chance. It's difficult because Palace have been good on the road lately and I know I incorrectly backed the Bluebirds last week for the same reason but surely they will be able to raise their level for their final home game of the season? Also, it's unlikely to affect their performance levels, but it's worth noting Palace would rather Brighton went down anyway! Prediction: Cardiff 2-1 Palace

Newcastle vs. Liverpool

After losing heavily without an away goal in Barcelona, Liverpool will suddenly feel they need this win even more to prevent their season turning very sour very quickly. Of course, it would be stupid to say they've had a disappointing season whatever happens now, but the expectations fans have mean the pressure is huge nonetheless. This is a hard game on paper but I just can't see Rafa Benitez being the guy to end Liverpool's chances of winning the league. Prediction: Newcastle 0-2 Liverpool

Chelsea vs. Watford

Surely the sides competing for that fourth spot can actually win their games this week. Chelsea need three points here and they'll be in a great position for UCL qualification. Since Watford lost last week, the task should now be a little easier as the Hornets' chances of 7th have decreased massively. The return of Troy Deeney is something to consider given Chelsea's defensive injuries but they should have enough. Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Watford

Huddersfield vs. Manchester United

If United don't win this game, they really are in trouble. It's got to the point where it's disappointing to concede against Huddersfield yet alone drop points so the players need to perform. Prediction: Huddersfield 0-2 Man Utd

Arsenal vs. Brighton

Back at home and with less pressure now that they have already blown their pole position for 4th spot, Arsenal should win this despite the fact Brighton will be desperate for the points. The Seagulls will almost definitely play for a 0-0 which is unlikely to work - perhaps Chris Hughton will feel his team should have a go for once since Arsenal are so vulnerable defensively? There's a chance of an away goal if the XI he picks suggests that is the case. Prediction: Arsenal 2-0 Brighton

Manchester City vs. Leicester

I'm not sure why so many people are making out that it's Liverpool who have the far tougher game in the title race this weekend, as Leicester will prove a big test for City. The Foxes won the reverse fixture and are now a far better side than they were then as Rodgers has taken over. I expect the hosts to win but if this is still 0-0 at half time there will be nerves all over the shop. Guardiola will want to win the game early as usual but especially in this one as Leicester are so good on the counter. Prediction: Man City 3-1 Leicester