3 bold Premier League predictions: Fernandes helps Manchester United win at Chelsea

2. Joelinton scores as Newcastle hold Arsenal to draw

Arsenal host Newcastle on Sunday in another game that’s difficult to call.

Perhaps surprisingly, both these sides have the same points despite the disparity in quality between the two squads. Steve Bruce has gone from the most hated man amongst Newcastle fans to the leader of a revival in the north east.

The Magpies haven’t been outstanding on the pitch this season but they’ve managed to get results. The resilience that Rafa Benitez established at the end of last season has carried on under Bruce and Newcastle no longer look like relegation candidates.

They are only seven points above the relegation zone but at the same time they’re only eight points back from 5th place. That shows you how hotly contested the Premier League is outside of the top three sides.

Arsenal look more like a team under Mikel Arteta and it’s clear that the Spaniard has given the Gunners more intent on the pitch by demanding more than Unai Emery did. Arteta seems to have a cut-throat mentality as well, which should hopefully reduce any egos that currently exist in the Arsenal dressing room.

The best league finish that the Gunners can hope for this season is probably 5th which suggests that Arteta should focus on trying to win the Europa League in order guarantee European competition for the London side next season.

That doesn’t mean Arteta will relent in the league as he will want maximum performance from his side on all fronts. However, it could mean that the Spanish manager will not chase league games as much as he would a Europa League match.

This should play into Newcastle’s hands anyway as the Magpies will set out to frustrate defensively and hit on the break with their speedy wingers, Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin.

Saint-Maximin has been a revelation for Newcastle this season and he’s undoubtedly their most exciting attacking player. Hector Bellerin can match the Frenchman for pace but whether he can keep up with the United player’s skill is another question.

Saint-Maximin will be provider this weekend as he sets up Joelinton for a goal that will secure a point for Newcastle in a 1-1 draw.