The Squad Weekend Picks (14-16 April 2017)


The Journo, The Fanatic & The Ex-Pro Make up the Squad, a team of expert football analysts who will be bringing you their top picks for the biggest games of the week, every week. Have a read below for all of this weekend's top picks and PLACE YOUR BETS HERE

Newcastle vs Leeds

The Journo: Newcastle are sitting 12 points ahead of Leeds and still have a lot to play for in their last few games to secure automatic qualification. I think they will be too strong for Leeds. The Ex-Pro: Leeds are currently in for a playoff spot and will be hungry going into the final 5 games, I can see them fighting hard to secure a draw. The Fan: Both teams have everything to play for here. I can see both teams picking up a point from this one.

Crystal Palace vs Leicester

The Journo: Goals Goals Goals! We are talking about 2 teams who are on an impressive run of form. Palace have been giant-killers lately but I can’t see them defeating a Leicester side rejuvenated under Craig Shakespeare. I’m in for a high scoring draw. The Ex-Pro: Both teams have had 4 wins and 1 loss in their last 5 games. They are just too evenly matched to call and I can only see a draw here. The Fan: Palace have a lot to fight for here. They are just 2 spots above the relegation zone but judging by their impressive form and will to survive, I can see them just edging this one.

Inter Milan vs AC Milan

The Journo: The last time these teams met in November, the game ended as a 2-2 draw. Both Milan teams are statistically similar this season and I think a draw is the most likely outcome. The Ex-Pro: Inter have just been too strong in this fixture recently. They have won the last 5 Milan Derbies at home and I can see them making it 6 this weekend. The Fan: AC Milan have only lost 1 of their last 5 away games and are on a good run of form. They are coming off a 4-0 win and I can see them taking that form into this game.

Valencia vs Sevilla

The Journo: Valencia have won 4 of their last 5 home games this season and have not lost to Sevilla in their last 5 home encounters. It will be tough, but I think Valencia can manage a win. The Ex-Pro: Sevilla are sitting far above Valencia on the table and are closely chasing Atletico Madrid for a Champions League Spot. They should have enough drive to defeat an on-form Valencia. The Fan: Sevilla have a lot more to play for in this one. It definitely won’t be easy but I can see them fighting hard to clinch an away win.

Man Utd vs Chelsea

The Journo: Mourinho will most likely be looking to rest some players off the back of their Europa League clash. Chelsea, on the other hand, have had a week to rest and surely intend on wrapping up the title sooner rather than later. I think the Blues will manage a narrow win against a tired United side. The Ex-Pro: United just don’t lose at home. I can’t see Chelsea taking many risks or opening many gaps but if United persist there is no reason they won’t create a chance or 2 to take the lead. The Fan: Given the circumstances, I think the 2 teams will be evenly matched on the day. United shouldn’t lose at home but I also don’t see Chelsea doing much more than holding back. This one should end as a draw.

PLACE YOUR BETS HERE

Published: 04/13/2017