Premier League derby weekend: the big rivalries and predictions

Merseyside derby Everton vs. Liverpool Premier League

(Image credit: Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

last updated 1 March 2019

It’s derby weekend in the Premier League and the three clashes could have a huge impact on the top and bottom of the English top flight.

Next Fulham manager betting odds: who are the favourites to replace Claudio Ranieri? Battle of Manchester: United and City clash in the tunnel after derby

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Mark Lawrenson, BBC Sport: “The Gunners come in to this game on the back of a couple of convincing home wins over Southampton and Bournemouth but they are always pretty strong at Emirates Stadium anyway. On the road, it is a different story and, taking that and and Spurs’ form into consideration, I think a draw is the most likely outcome - especially because this is a lunchtime game and they are usually pretty rubbish. Prediction: 1-1.”

Paul Merson, Sky Sports: “Chelsea. How many? How many do you want? Chelsea have turned a corner, raised the bar and set an example. I expect them to go here and win this comfortably. These two are chalk and cheese. It looked like Fulham downed tools the other night, they didn’t look interested, and looked like a relegated team. If they play like that against Chelsea, who are far better than Southampton, it’s going to be a comfortable result. Prediction: 0-4.”

Mark Lawrenson, BBC Sport: “Replacing the sacked Ranieri now really is the last throw of the dice, but Fulham must feel that someone with different ideas and a different voice can make a difference. Fulham have been so bad of late, they seem to get into a mess whatever their game plan is. If they attack them, and you have to think they will try, it will just play into Chelsea’s hands. Chelsea’s win over Tottenham was a good way for Maurizio Sarri’s side to answer their critics but what people forget is that they actually played well against Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final too. I am expecting more of the same from Sarri’s side. Prediction: 0-2.”

Paul Merson, Sky Sports: “Massive, massive game. If Liverpool win, they’re ticking off a big game. It’s out of Man City’s hands at the moment, but as soon as Liverpool do drop points I think they’re in trouble. Watford was a banana skin, it looked a hard game, and they come out with a 5-0 win. That gives them a massive boost. What threat do Everton have? Man-for-man, there is no threat, but it’s Everton's cup final. Liverpool have to get through this unscathed. Prediction: 1-2.”