Merson’s Christmas predictions

Paul Merson returns with his Premier League predictions ahead of a busy Christmas schedule.

Table-toppers Chelsea look for their 12th-successive league victory when Bournemouth travel to Stamford Bridge, with the chasing pack all looking to keep pace before the turn of the year.

Before that, the festive schedule gets underway at Vicarage Road where Watford host Crystal Palace, the first of several key battles towards the bottom half of the division.

So without further ado, here is the Magic Man’s expert guide through the busy Christmas schedule…

Watford v Crystal Palace – Boxing Day, 12.30pm, Sky Sports 1 HD

This is going to be a hard game. Both teams need to win. I just don’t see it with Palace at the minute, they are a funny team. In fairness, Watford are exactly same! This is the sort of game where I wouldn’t be surprised if either team won. With that in mind, I’m going to sit on the fence. I hope Troy Deeney can finally get his 100th Watford goal, he’s been stuck on 99 for weeks! He’s a goalscorer and if he scores first, Watford will get a result, of that I’m certain. If Palace do, they will hold on for the win.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1 (Sky Bet odds 5/1)

Arsenal v West Brom – Boxing Day, 3pm

Flat-track bullies Arsenal win these games, don’t they? West Brom have done well in recent weeks but they came unstuck against a very professional Manchester United side.

The Baggies could have got a result at Chelsea. They did well at Stamford Bridge and would have been well worth a draw. But I can’t go against Arsenal when they play these teams.

PAUL PREDICTS: 3-1 (Sky Bet odds 15/2)

Burnley v Middlesbrough – Boxing Day, 3pm

Burnley are a force against anybody at home, they will give anyone a game. Arsenal scored the winner with the last kick of their game at Turf Moor, Man City left it late too, which goes to show how difficult they are to play against. I …

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