17. premier League round: derby at both ends of the table, Liverpool must work hard

Christmas off? Don’t go to England with that! The Premier League returns to the screens on 26 December and offers interesting matches in the 17th round. Which battles shouldn’t be missed and why?

Arsenal vs. West Ham

Arsenal will go into the battle with a five-point lead at the top of the table, on the other hand without the injured Gabriel Jesus. Eddie Nketiah is likely to deputise at the spearhead, but he can’t replace him in the job for the team.

But Arsenal are built on team performances and the absence of one man, albeit an important one, can be overcome. Plus, West Ham are not in a good place. On the contrary, it is one point away from relegation. The London derby is extremely important for both of them.

Aston Villa vs. Liverpool

Although the match of two disappointments of the first part of the season has a clear favorite, Liverpool has already lost points to much weaker opponents this season. In addition to that, they didn’t make it through the cup dress rehearsal, losing 2:3 to Manchester City.

Aston Villa are on the rise after Steven Gerrard’s sacking, but the quality of the squad should make them struggle for the cups. They are currently three points behind the seventh place, on the other hand, they are five points away from relegation. In front of their own fans, the Reds will want to succeed and have a tough job ahead of them.

Southampton vs. Brighton

The traditional derby for the south coast, which this year looks surprisingly clear for the guests. Brighton will also go into battle with world champion Alexis Mac Allister, and winger Leandro Trossard is having an excellent year.

But it is the home side who desperately need to score. They’re second to last and have been pointless in the last three rounds. The focus is on James Ward Prowse, who has got the team off the brink on several occasions. Now, more than ever, he’s needed.

Source: Premier League