Robbie Savage Premier League selections: More Man United frustration, Man City in goal heaven

Robbie Savage1 December 2023

Robbie Savage

Former Premier League midfielder Robbie Savage returns to look ahead to a busy weekend of action.

Manchester City and Tottenham headline a tasty line-up of fixtures, with Savage backing a goal-fest at the Etihad.

Neighbours Manchester United are also involved in a potential barnstormer as they prepare to visit a lively St James’ Park.

Robbie Savage provides his thoughts on the four televised games. His full list of selections can be found at the bottom of the article.

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Nottingham Forest vs Everton (Sat 1730 GMT)

It’s a huge game for both football clubs. Loads of speculation around Steve Cooper. If they lose this one, can Steve Cooper keep hold of his job? I hope so.

Steve Cooper has done fantastic things with Nottingham Forest, kept them up last year. But they spent more money in the summer and the ownership will want to secure Premier League status once again and push on.

The big question is if they get beat at home against Everton, can Steve Cooper keep his job?

I would think it’s harsh if they lose and he gets sacked. But you know what football is like.

Everton are on the back of a 3-0 loss against Manchester United. I thought they played really well in that first half, but just didn’t take their chances.

I think there will be a response from the Nottingham Forest players, I’m going with a Forest 2-1 win against Everton.

Newcastle vs Manchester United (Sat 2000 GMT)

Newcastle are taking on the form team in the Premier League, five wins from six in the Premier League for Manchester United.

That great 3-0 win away at Everton, although Everton created so many chances in that first half, Newcastle will created chances at St James’ Park.

Injuries for both sides, both on the back of a draw in European football. How was that handball in the 98th minute against Newcastle at PSG. It was ridiculous.

Man United throwing away a 2-0 lead and a 3-1 lead [at Galatasaray].

I think there will be goals. United are the only team in the Premier League yet to draw. I think this will be a draw, 2-2.

West Ham vs Crystal Palace (Sun 1400 GMT)

Crystal Palace’s record in London derbies isn’t great. West Ham are on the back of a win in Europe.

Crystal Palace had a free week with West Ham playing in Europe – will they be a little bit fresher?

Lots of games coming up over the Christmas period. But I just think West Ham at home will win this one. I’m going with a 2-0 win.

Manchester City vs Tottenham (Sun 1630 GMT)

Spurs have a great record against Pep Guardiola’s City. But with injuries for Spurs going to the Etihad, the way Ange Postecoglou plays, I think they’ll be aggressive, I think they’ll be on the front foot, I think they’ll play high.

I think he won’t change his philosophy and I think that will play right into City’s hands.

With the injuries to Spurs, I’m gonna go with a 4-0 City win believe it or not.

I think Spurs have lost their last three. I think it will be four in a row because I just think that they will be brave.

The style of football Spurs play is great on the eye. But inevitably, if they play like that against City, I just think it could be a heavy scoreline.