Premier League Preview and Predictions: Round 38

The curtain falls on the 2010/2011 Premier League season this weekend on what Sky have dubbed, with reassuring ineveitability, ‘Survival Sunday’. All the focus will be on the five teams directly above West Ham in the table, two of which will be joining the already condemned Hammers in the Championship next season. Numerous permutations are possible, and with goal difference also exceedingly tight there are bound to be a number of changes in the make up of the bottom three before 6pm. Here’s our preview for the final round of fixtures along with some predictions.

Aston Villa vs. Liverpool

There is nothing really to play for in this one, although Liverpool could still qualify for the Europa League if Spurs slip up at White Hart Lane. Do they really want to though? There is the potential for a few goals as both teams try to end what has been a trying campaign with a flourish.

The Football Blog Prediction: 2-2

Bolton Wanderers vs. Manchester City

The FA Cup maybe in the bag but there is no letting up for City as they aim to finish above Arsenal in third place and avoid a potentially tricky Champions League qualifier. Bolton seemed to have clocked off since their FA Cup semi-final defeat but will be hoping to take advantage of City’s indifferent away form.

The Football Blog Prediction: 1-1

Everton vs. Chelsea

This is likely to be Carlo Ancelotti’s final game in charge of Chelsea and a win for the west London side would be a fitting tribute to the man who delivered them the double last season. Everton are ending the season strongly though and David Moyes will want to prove to the home fans there is more to come from his side next season.

The Football Blog Prediction: 2-1

Fulham vs. Arsenal

There is speculation that Fulham will be looking to accrue as many yellow cards as possible in this one to avoid qualifying for the Europa League through the Fair Play system. The season can’t end soon enough for Arsenal after last weekend’s horror show against Aston Villa. A busy summer ahead for Arsene Wenger.

The Football Blog Prediction: 1-2

Manchester United vs. Blackpool

Blackpool supporters at Old Trafford will be hoping they can join their United counterparts in celebrating come the end of the game, but to realistically be doing so their team will need to do what no other has done this season and beat United on their own patch. They will be playing a reserve side but it could still prove a step too far.

The Football Blog Prediction: 3-1

Newcastle United vs. West Bromwich Albion

Both these sides were promoted from the Championship last season, both have changed their manager over the course of this campaign, and both can reflect with some satisfaction that they go into the final day without any fear of relegation. Expectation levels are likely to be higher next season for Messrs. Pardew and Hodgson.

The Football Blog Prediction: 2-1

Stoke City vs. Wigan Athletic

Wigan have the benefit of some momentum going into this one following last weekend’s come from behind victory over West Ham and will want to take all three points to give themselves the best possible chance of survival. The Stoke players will be looking forward to their summer holidays but are a tough side to beat at the Britannia.

The Football Blog Prediction: 2-2

Tottenham Hotspur vs. Birmingham City

Birmingham’s preparations for this game haven’t been ideal, with a tepid showing against Fulham on Sunday followed by the late night drinking antics of a number of players. Their Carling Cup victory seems like a distant memory and would be severely tarnished were it to be accompanied by relegation in the same season.

The Football Blog Prediction: 2-0

West Ham United vs. Sunderland

The mood at Upton Park for this game is hardly likely to be upbeat, with the Hammers already relegated and Sunderland on a treacherous run of form which could well have seen them go the same way had it not been for their bright start to the season. Lots of work to be done for both clubs over the summer

The Football Blog Prediction: 2-1

Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Blackburn Rovers

Two consecutive 3-1 victories have seen Wolves move out of the bottom three and Mick McCarthy will be looking for more of the same on Sunday to secure survival. Steve Kean has attracted criticism for playing for a draw against Manchester United last weekend and it may only be Blackburn’s goal difference that saves them come the final whistle.

The Football Blog Prediction: 2-1

As ever, let us know your thoughts on the fixtures and which way you think they will go. Enjoy the matches and make sure you get your SportGuru picks in before Sunday.