premiership injured players

Premiership injuries / suspensions Team News 17-19 October 2009
 
Aston Villa v Chelsea
Villa continue without injured trio Curtis Davies(1gl),Ashley Young(1gl) and Stewart Downing when they take on table-toppers Chelsea.
Chelsea will again be missing the services of defender Alex, and also have doubts over Jose Bosingwa(1asst) & John Mikel Obi.
 
Arsenal v Birmingham
Arsenal host Birmingham without injured midfielder Denilson(1gl,1asst), along with Johan Djourou also missing.
However, they await the fitness of Theo Walcott(1gl),keeper Manuel Almunia,Fabianski & Sami Nasri before naming their squad. Manager Arsene Wenger must decide whether to retain impressive Vito Mannone in goal or switch to first choice Almunia.
Birmingham’s injuries have eased slightly but will travel still missing influential James McFadden(1gl) and defender Martin Taylor.
Midfielder Keith Fahey(1asst),strikers Cameron Jerome & Marcus Bent and defender David Murphy are all closing in on returns.
 
Everton v Wolves
Toffees defender Phil Jagielka is back in training with a view to returning mid-November so will again sit out the visit of Wolves on Saturday.
Midfielders Phil Neville and Mikel Arteta will also be missing, and there are doubts over the fitness of defender Joseph Yobo(1gl),Steven Pienaar and striker Victor Anichebe.
Wolves travel without Dave Jones,Stephen Ward and new signing Segundo Castillo as they bid to climb out of the early relegation places.
However, striker Chris Iwelumo,Andrew Surman and defender Richard Stearman(1gl) are all doubts.
 
Manchester Utd v Bolton
Manchester Utd have been dealt a major blow with leading scorer Wayne Rooney(6gls) out with a calf muscle strain.
He joins fellow striker Michael Owen(2gls) and midfielders Gabriel Obertan & Owen Hargreaves on the sidelines.
Bolton will be missing Sean Davis and Joey O`Brien, while Johan Elmander(1asst) is rated as doubtful ahead of their daunting trip to Old Trafford.
 
Portsmouth v Tottenham
Portsmouth ‘welcome’ back former manager Harry Redknapp when he brings his high-flying Tottenham side to Fratton Park.
It’s likely to be a highly charged atmosphere, but Pompey need to focus on the priority of gaining a much-needed 3 points.
They will be without defender Linvoy Primus again, and will be sweating on the fitness of midfielder Papa Bouba Diop,Joel Ward,Richard Hughes and Hermann Hreidarsson. Jamie O`Hara is also unavailable due to his loan deal from Tottenham.
Spurs will travel without defender Jonathan Woodgate,Luka Modric(1asst) and Dos Santos.
Ledley King and want-away striker Roman Pavlyuchenko(1asst) may have to pass late fitness tests.
 
Stoke City v West Ham
Stoke striker Mamady Sidibe is on the road to recovery at last, but this game will come too soon as he builds up match fitness after being out since March this year.
Diego Arismendi also misses out, while Abdoulaye Faye(1gl) remains sidelined for some time, as The Potters look to put some serious daylight between them and the teams occupying the relegation zone.
The Hammers will be without Scott Parker who is suspended, along with usual suspects Dean Ashton and Luis Boa Morte.
Kieron Dyer,Daniel Gabbidon and Jack Collison are doubts.

Sunderland v Liverpool
Sunderland will be without suspended Kieran Richardson when Liverpool come to town.
New signing John Mensah and Lee Cattermole(2assts) are hoping to be fit.
Liverpool midfielder Alberto Aquilani is nearing a return but this will come too soon for him.
Also Greek defender Sotirios Kyrgiakos looks likely to miss the trip to Sunderland after being injured midweek against Luxembourg.
The Reds are also desperately hoping Steven Gerrard(3gls,4assts) & Fernando Torres(8gls,1asst) are fit for the trip.
 
Blackburn Rovers v Burnley
Blackburn first choice keeper Paul Robinson is doubtful with a hip injury ahead of the Lancashire derby with near rivals Blackburn.
Striker Benny McCarthy has been ruled out, while Steven Reid and defenders Christopher Samba(1gl) & Ryan Nelsen are all doubtful.
Burnley travel seeking their first goal away from home,but will have to do so without strikers Martin Paterson and Jay Rodriguez.
Kevin McDonald and Chris McCann are also ruled out, but Fernando Guerrero is hoping to make it.
 
Wigan v Manchester City
Wigan entertain close rivals Man City in the second derby match of the Premiership this weekend.
Boss Roberto Martinez has no new injury worries as they look to upset top-4 wannabe’s City.
City meanwhile have a string of injuries to contend with; Kolo Toure,Pablo Zabaleta,Nigel de Jong,Nedum Onuoha and Benjani will all miss out.
They also have doubts over Joleon Lescott,Robinho and Vincent Kompany.
 
Fulham v Hull City
Fulham keeper David Stockdale has been ruled out for the visit of fellow strugglers Hull City,along with Damien Duff(1gl) and Toni Kallio. Simon Davies looks likley to also miss out as they seek a much needed win.
Hull are still seeking their first away win of the season but they will be without skipper Ian Ashbee and Richard Garcia.
The match may come too soon also for Liam Cooper and Anthony Gardner as they try to recover from a hamstring and knee injury respectively.

Premiership injuries / suspensions Team News 3-4 October 2009
 
Bolton v Tottenham
Bolton will still be without Sean Davis & Joey O`Brien due to long term
injuries.
Meanwhile, reserve keeper Adam Bogdan has joined Crewe Alexandra on
a one month loan.
Tottenham have been dealt an injury blow ahead of their visit to The
Reebok – striker Jermain Defoe(5gls) is a major doubt. Dos Santos,Ledley
King,Luka Modric(1asst) and Jonathan Woodgate all remain sidelined.
 
 
Burnley v Birmingham City – Under 2.5 goals
Burnley have suffered another injury blow as striker Jay Rodriguez will
be out for about 3 months and joins Martin Paterson and Chris McCann on
the injury list.
Fernando Guerrero is also out.
Birmingham’s early season injury woes continue with defenders Franck
Quedrue & Martin Taylor,and forwards Cameron Jerome and James
McFadden(1gl) still all ruled out.
New signing Christian Benitez is also very unlikely to figure as he has
flown home to Ecuador to be with his family after his father was in a
road accident.
 
 
Hull City v Wigan Athletic
Hull will be without Richard Garcia and Ian Ashbee when they host a very
confident Wigan side that shocked Chelsea 3-1 last week.
Wigan look set to name an unchanged side following their good win, with
Olivier Kapo the only injury.
 
 
Wolves v Portsmouth
Wolves will look at this fixture as a must-win 3 pointer against a
woeful Portsmouth at the Molineaux.
However, they will be without defender Richard Stearman(1gl),midfielder
Stephen Ward, while striker Chris Iwelumo is pushing for a recall
following a lengthy lay-off.
Midfielder David Jones is set to be out for 3 months following surgery.
Portsmouth will still be without Linvoy Primus,Papa Bouba Diop and
Hermann Hreidarsson as they still seek their first win of the season.
The task is not made any easier with an unsettled financial & managerial
status hanging over the club.
 
 
Manchester United v Sunderland
Man United host another of Fergie’s former players when they welcome Steve
Bruce’s Sunderland to Old Trafford.
It was only a matter of time before Michael Owen(2gls) got injured and
he joins Edwin Van der Sar,Gabriel Obertan and Owen Hargreaves on the
sidelines.
Sunderland’s only injury is Lee Cattermole(1asst) as they look to record
back-to-back victories – an unlikely event as United have a 100% record
at home.
 
 
Arsenal v Blackburn – Over 2.5 goals
Arsenal entertain Blackburn without the services of
Djourou,Fabianski,Denilson and Sami Nasri.
Blackburn travel to the Emirates with defender Gael Givet(1gl,1asst) an
injury doubt.
Rovers recorded a 2-1 win over Aston Villa last week.
 
 
Everton v Stoke City
Everton continued their revival with a 1-0 win at Portsmouth last week
and will look to make it 3 straight wins when they host Stoke City.
They will have to do without injured midfield trio of Steven
Pienaar,Mikel Arteta and Phil Neville,defender Phil Jagielka and forward
Victor Anichebe.
Stoke travel to Goddison Park still without Abdoulaye Faye(1gl) and
striker Mamady Sidibe.
Out of favour striker Richard Cresswell has joined Championship side
Sheffield United on a 3 month loan.
 
 
West Ham v Fulham
The Hammers have the usual suspects missing again – Luis Boa Morte and
Dean Ashton remain on the casualty list, but they are joined by young
Welsh midfielder Jack Collison.
Fulham will fancy their chances of getting something out of this game
but will be missing midfielder Damian Duff(1gl) and defender Toni Kallio.
 
 
Chelsea v Liverpool – Over 2.5 goals
Chelsea will be looking to bounce back after their shock defeat at Wigan
last week, but it won’t be easy with Liverpool the next opponents.
Chelsea will be without first choice keeper Petr Cech who is suspended
following his sending off last weekend against Wigan.
John Mikel Obi and Alex are also injured and will miss the match.
Liverpool will again be without midfielder Alberto Aquilani when they
travel to Stamford Bridge.

Premiership injuries / suspensions Team News 26-28 September 2009
 
Portsmouth v Everton
With the axe looming over Paul Hart,Pompey will again be without key midfielder Papa Bouba Diop as they take on a resurgent Everton side at Fratton Park.
Defenders Hermann Hreidarsson and Linvoy Primus will also continue their recoveries.
Everton will definitely be missing midfielders Phil Neville and Mikel Arteta, along with striker Victor Anichebe and defender Phil Jagielka.
Everton should have enough to get at least a draw at Fratton Park.
Prediction: Everton WIN @ 1.95 or (add to a multi) – Draw No Bet @ 1.40 (Bet365)

 
Birmingham City v Bolton Wanderers – Under 2.5 goals
The Blues will look ahead to their home game against Bolton with renewed confidence after a fantastic away win at Hull last weekend.
The injury list is starting to recover, however, James McFadden(1gl),Franck Quedrue,striker Cameron Jerome and defender Martin Taylor all face lengthy lay-offs.
Roger Johnson and Scott Dann should continue their new central defensive partnership after impressing at the KC Stadium.
Bolton midfielder Sean Davis has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury,and midfielder Joey O`Brien is also out.
However, Ricardo Gardner is almost fit and may be included in the squad as manager Gary Megson looks for improvement in results.
Prediction: Birmingham have a good chance of back-to-back victories here – Birmingham WIN @ 2.20 or (add to multi) – Asian Handicap 0 @ 1.55 (see Additional Asian Handicap) Bet365.
 
 
Blackburn Rovers v Aston Villa
Manager Sam Allardyce has an injury worry over defender Gael Givet(1gl,1asst) as they take on high-flying Aston Villa.
Villa defender Curtis Davies(1gl) is out,along with Stuart Downing and midfielder Steve Sidwell is also a doubt as they travel to Ewood Park.
However, Ashley Young(1gl) and Emile Heskey are fighting to be fit.
Prediction: It’s hard to see where Blackburn’s goals are going to come from and Villa have a confident Agbonlahor(3gls),James Milner(1gl,2assts) and a returning to fitness John Carew – take Villa at a juicy 2.37 (Bet365)
 
 
Liverpool v Hull City – Over 2.5 goals
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has an almost fully fit aquad to pick from when they host a Hull side who can’t take a trick at the moment.
Only midfielder Alberto Aquilani and defender Daniel Agger remain sidelined.
Hull have a few injuries as they face an almost impossible task at Anfield; defender Steven Mouyokolo,and midfield trio Richard Garcia,Jimmy Bullard and captain Ian Ashbee are all sidelined.
Anthony Gardner may be fit in time.
Prediction: Should be a straight-forward Liverpool WIN
 
 
Stoke City v Manchester United
Stoke will probably be missing Abdoulaye Faye(1gl) and Mamady Sidibe when they host second-placed Man Utd.
Striker Ricardo Fuller(1asst) is hoping to be fit in time.
Man Utd will again be missing first choice keeper Edwin Van Der Sar,midfielders Gabriel Obertan & Owen Hargreaves and defender Rafael.
Prediction: Manchester United WIN
 
 
Tottenham v Burnley – Over 2.5 goals
Tottenham will look to get back to winning ways against a Burnley side still seeking their first away win.
Spurs have injury worries which tests their depth of squad; Dos Santos,Ledley King,Sebastien Bassong(1gl),Luka Modric(1asst) and Jonathan Woodgate are all sidelined.
The Clarets will have to do without striker Martin Paterson, but this provides the opportunity for on-loan striker David Nugent(2gls) to start after bagging a brace off the bench against Sunderland last weekend.
Midfielder Chris McCann is also out for about 3 months and first choice keeper Brian Jensen is doubtful with a dead-leg. Stephen Caldwell may return after a groin injury.
I predict goals here at White Hart Lane with defenders out for Tottenham, but Crouch,Defoe,Keane & Lennon on fire at the moment.
Prediction: Tottenham WIN @ 1.33 Bet365
 
Wigan Athletic v Chelsea
The Latics will assess Olivier Kapo’s fitness before naming their squad against leaders Chelsea.
There are no other injury worries for Wigan.
Chelsea have doubts over Dean Sturridge & Alex, while Joe Cole may return after a lengthy knee injury.
Didier Drogba(5gls,3assts) and Deco(1gl,1asst) should be fit despite a couple of knocks.
Chelsea will look to extend their 100% record at JJB Stadium.
Prediction: You can’t win games if you don’t score and Wigan have only managed 1 goal at home this season so far – Chelsea WIN
 
 
Fulham v Arsenal
Fulham defenders Paul Konchesky(1gl) and Toni Kallio will both miss the visit of Arsenal.
There seems to be too much distraction from the Europa League for the Cottagers and I think Arsenal will take full advantage.
Arsenal will continue without Djourou,Fabianski and Sami Nasri as they travel to Fulham in another London derby.
Denilson(1gl,1asst) is doubtful, but Andrei Arshavin(1gl) and Carlos Vela are pushing for recalls.
Prediction: Arsenal WIN
 
 
Sunderland v Wolves
The Black Cats have doubts over midfielder Lee Cattermole(1asst) and first choice keeper Martin Fulop as they take on a confident Wolves side.
Wolves will be without defender Richard Stearman(1gl) and midfielder Stephen Ward, with striker Chris Iwelumo doubtful.
Wolves have valuable players returning from injury ie Michael Kightly,Sylvain Ebanks-Blake along with new signing, towering striker Stefan Maierhofer(1gl) and they look good with a start here.
Prediction: Wolves +0.5,1 @ 1.85 Bet365
 
 
Manchester City v West Ham
Man City will again be without leading scorer Emmanuel Adebayor(4gls) through suspension, while midfielder Stephen Ireland(1gl) is expected to be fit following feeling dizzy during their midweek Carling Cup match v Fulham.
Micah Richards(1asst) is doubtful with a shoulder injury, but Nedum Onuoha,Robinho,Benjani,Michael Johnson,Roque Santa Cruz & Vincent Kompany all remain out.
Former West Ham stars Craig Bellamy(3gls,1asst) is set to continue up front alongside Carlos Tevez(3assts).
West Ham will be without striker Dean Ashton with fears mounting over his playing future.
Luis Boa Morte will also be out for about 9 months.
The Hammers await fitness reports on Matthew Upson(1gl),Luis Jiminez(1asst) and Jack Collison ahead of their trip.
Man City pushed United all the way at Old Trafford and were very unlucky not to get a deserved point.
Prediction: Man City WIN to bounce back

Premiership injuries / suspensions Team News 19-20 September 2009
 
Burnley v Sunderland
Burnley host Sunderland at home as they bid to halt a mini-slump following 3-0 and 4-0 losses to Chelsea and Liverpool respectively. After an impressive start, the recent losses has seen Burnley slip to 12th in the table – sound familiar Hull City fans?
The Clarets only injury concern continues to be defender Steven Caldwell.
The Black Cats are set to be missing defenders Phil Bardsley and George McCartney through injury, while leading scorer Darren Bent(4gls) has a groin strain and keeper Martin Fulop may have to pass a fitness test.
 
 
Arsenal v Wigan
Arsenal host Wigan in a must-win match in order to keep them in touch early in the season.
However, several players are missing already; Djourou,Fabianski and Nasri are all definitely out.
Keeper Manuel Almunia, Andrei Arshavin(1gl) and Vela are doubtful. Vito Mannone may deputise in goal.
Van Persie(1gl,3assts),Denilson and Theo Walcott should be fit to play.
Wigan are again without Olivier Kapo as they travel to the Emirates with a chance of getting something from the game.

 
Aston Villa v Portsmouth
Villa defender Wilfred Bouma has returned to training but will miss their home game against rock-bottom Portsmouth.
Defender Curtis Davies(1gl) and Stewart Downing are still injured, while defender Luke Young is close to a return following a thigh strain.
Pompey will be missing defender Linvoy Primus, but Marc Wilson,Papa Bouba Diop,Hermann Hreidarsson and Steve Finnan may be in the frame. The chimes will not be ringing alas after this match I fear.

 
Bolton v Stoke City – Under 2.5 goals
Bolton are likely to be without Ricardo Gardner again although close to a return.
Johan Elmander(1asst) may be in line for a return.
The Potters will be without strikers James Beattie and Mamady Sidibe, while keeper Thomas Sorensen is a doubt. Steve Simonsen may continue between the sticks.
With no Beattie, Stoke may well be lacking the cutting edge in finishing any creativity.
Not a game for the purist, I predict a dour low-scoring encounter.
 
 
Hull City v Birmingham City – Under 2.5 goals
Hull entertain Birmingham without Richard Garcia,Jimmy Bullard and Ian Ashbee.
Defender Anthony Gardner and midfielder Dean Marney face late fitness tests but may be included in the squad.
Striker Caleb Folan has joined Middlesbrough on a 3 month loan.
Birmingham have increasing injury woes as James McFadden(1gl),Cameron Jerome,Martin Taylor and Liam Ridgewell are all ruled out.
Franck Queudrue,Stephen Carr,Gregory Vignal,Marcus Bent and David Murphy are all doubtful.
The Blues will probably start with one striker up front O`Connor with Benitez and Phillips battling it out on the bench.
Without McFadden, so too goes Birmingham’s creativity and the best they can hope for is a draw I fear.
A low-scoring game as a result I predict.
 
 
West Ham v Liverpool
West Ham’s new striker Guillermo Franco is expected to provide more firepower up front alongside Carlton Cole, but may not figure this weekend.
Striker Dean Ashton remains out along with Luis Boa Morte.
Kieran Dyer,Jack Collison and Herita Ilunga are all doubts.
The Reds are still without Aquilani,Daniel Agger and El Zhar as they go to Upton Park on the back of a lacklustre display against Debrecen midweek.
 
 
Man Utd v Man City
United take on City in the first of this seasons Manchester derbies with midfielder Paul Scholes(1asst) missing through suspension following his dismissal against Spurs last weekend.
United will continue without the services of keeper Edwin Van der Sar,Obertan and Owen Hargreaves.
Defender Rafael is doubtful.
Man City will be without leading scorer Emmanuel Adebayor(4gls) as he serves a 3 match ban following a stamping incident on former team mate Robin van Persie.
City manager Mark Hughes will also be without strikers Benjani, Roque Santa Cruz and Robinho through injury, while Carlos Tevez(1asst) is rated extremely doubtful.
Craig Bellamy(1gl,1asst) will likely be the lone striker up front.
 
 
Wolves v Fulham
Wolves are boosted by the return of assist king Michael Kightly(8gls,19assts! last season) but may not start.
More good news comes in the shape of return to training for defenders Kevin Foley and Jody Craddock(1asst) along with striker Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, although this match may come too soon for all 3 to figure.
Midfielder Stephen Ward and striker Chris Iwelumo are still sidelined.
Fulham keeper Mark Schwarzer is doubtful so David Stockdale is set to continue in goal.
Defender Toni Kallio has been ruled out with an achilles.
 
Everton v Blackburn
Everton may include new signing defender Lucas Neill for the visit of Blackburn.
It comes as a timely boost in the wake of Phil Neville, Phil Jagielka’s injuries, along with the departure of Joleon Lescott.
Influential playmaker Mikel Arteta is also sidelined.
Blackburn have loaned out defender Ruban Khizanishvili to Championship side Newcastle Utd for 3 mnoths.
Rovers also have doubts over defender Christopher Samba,Steven Nzonzi and Benny McCarthy.

 
Chelsea v Tottenham
Chelsea will once again be without Zhirkov with a knee injury and no date set yet for a return.
Deco(1gl,1asst) and Alex are doubts although Deco may be fit for The Blues.
Defender Paolo Ferriera continues on the sidelines.
Spurs keeper Gomes is pushing for a recall after recovering from a groin strain, but Luka Modric(1asst) is again missing.
Defenders Michael Dawson, Gareth Bale & Jonathan Woodgate are all close to returns but may not be risked too early.

Premiership injuries / suspensions Team News 12-13 September 2009

Blackburn Rovers v Wolves – Under 2.5 goals
Rovers are set to be without strikers Benni McCarthy & Franco Di Santo, along with Brett Emerton,El-Hadji Diouf and Ryan Nelson, although Emerton is close to returning.
Pascal Chimbonda is set to continue despite lack of match fitness.
Wolves are close to being able to call up vital trio of Kevin Foley,Sylvan Ebanks-Blake & Michael Kightly, but this game may be too soon for them all.
Defender Jody Craddock is definitely ruled out, as is Stephen Ward and Chris Iwelumo.

Liverpool v Burnley
Liverpool host Burnley without new signing Alberto Aquilani and long-term absentee Daniel Agger.
However, Nabil El Zhar and Fabio Aurelio are close to recalls following injuries.
The Clarets will be without Stephen Caldwell and Michael Duff as they complete their opening rounds against four of the top six teams last season.

Man City v Arsenal
Man City will still be missing ‘forgotten’ striker Benjani along with Michael Johnson & new signing Roque Santa Cruz who has yet to appear this season.
Midfielder Vincent Kompany is rated doubtful but is approaching fitness.
City new signing Ade Adebayor faces his old club for the first time since joining Man City.
Arsenal are still without a host of players for the trip to City of Manchester Stadium; Vela,Johan Djourou,Fabianski and Sami Nasri all sidelined. Cesc Fabregas(2gls,2assts),Theo Walcott and Thomas Rosicky(may be named in squad) are nearing fitness but this game may be too soon.
Andrei Arshavin(1gl) has been ruled out with a groin injury.

Portsmouth v Bolton – Under 2.5 goals
Pompey are likely to be without injured Marc Wilson,Papa Bouba Diop,Linvoy Primus and Steve Finnan.
Striker David Nugent has joined Burnley on loan until the end of the year with a view to a permanent move, while Nico Kranjcar has since moved to Tottenham.
Pompey have signed 8 new players in the summer transfer window, although it will take time for the new squad to gel. Boateng may make his debut for Pompey following his move from Tottenham, as too striker Danny Webber.
Bolton’s only injury worry is Ricardo Gardner who is rated doubtful.
New signing striker Ivan Klasnic could make his debut for The Trotters.

Stoke v Chelsea
Stoke have doubts over James Beattie & Abdoulaye Faye, while striker Mamady Sidibe continues to be sidelined with a knee injury.
New signing Tuncay should make his debut.
Chelsea are set to be without Zhirkov, but Alex,Paolo Ferreira and Joe Cole are close to returning.

Sunderland v Hull City
Martin Fulop is still likely to be missing for Sunderland, so Craig Gordon is set to continue.
Sunderland have no other injury concerns and new signing defender Michael Turner (from Hull) is set to make his debut.
Hull will definitely be without Dean Marney,Richard Garcia,Jimmy Bullard and Ian Ashbee through injury.
Defender Michael Turner has left, so will be interesting to see how the Hull back line cope with aerial threat of Kenwynne Jones etc.
Hull have been boosted though by the surprise signing of striker Vennegoor of Hesselink on a free from Celtic.

Wigan v West Ham
Wigan will again be without Olivier Kapo and he’s likely to be out for around 2 months.
Jason Koumas(1gl) should be fit for the visit of The Hammers.
West Ham are missing Herita Ilunga,Luis Boa Morte and Dean Ashton.
However, Valon Behrami returned for the reserves midweek and is close to a first team return.

Tottenham v Man Utd – Over 2.5 goals
Tottenham are in the unusual position of entertaining a Man Utd side who are lower than them in the table, hoping to extend their 100% record.
But the injury list is growing with important defender Ledley King,influential midfielder Luca Modric(1asst),keeper Gomes,Michael Dawson and Jonathan Woodgate all injured.
Jermaine Jenas and Gareth Bale are doubtful.
Man Utd also have injury worries, but mostly restricted to defenders/defensive midfield areas; Rio Ferdinand,keeper Edwin Van der Sar,Obertan,Owen Hargreaves and Rafael are all sidelined, although Ferdinand is very close to returning.
I think it will be an open, attacking contest hence my prediction.

Birmingham v Aston Villa
The Blues host another Midlands Derby when arch-rivals Villa visit St.Andrews.
They have defensive headaches as Martin Taylor,Gregory Vignal,David Murphy and Liam Ridgewell are all out. Scott Dann and Marcus Bent are also likely to miss out.
Striker Cameron Jerome will be out for apprx 6 weeks.
However, loan signing Teemu Tainio (from Sunderland) will add a bit of steel in the midfield.
Villa have their injuries too as defender Curtis Davies(1gl) is expected to be missing for apprx 4 months,Wilfred Bouma,Luke Young and Stewart Downing also missing.
James Collins (from West Ham) is set to make his debut.

Fulham v Everton
Fulham will be sweating on the fitness of striker Bobby Zamora(1gl),Danny Murphy and Simon Davies when they host Everton.
Forward Andrew Johnson and defender Toni Kallio are definitely ruled out.
Everton are set to be without injured trio Victor Anichebe,Phil Jagielka and Mikel Arteta for the trip to Craven Cottage.
 

Premiership injuries / suspensions Team News 29-30 August 2009

Chelsea v Burnley
Chelsea take on new boys Burnley who have been the surprise package so far by beating Man Utd & Everton at home 1-0.
Chelsea will be without Belletti (achilles) & Zhirkov (knee) for a couple more weeks, but Alex (groin) may make a return. Ferreira & Joe Cole (both cruciate ligaments) are nearing fitness but this game will probably come too soon for either to return.
Burnley will travel without injured pair Caldwell (groin) & Duff (sprained ankle), hoping to cause another upset.
The Clarets have made an impressive start but it’s a different story away from home and even harder at Stamford Bridge.
Prediction: A comfortable Chelsea home win

Blackburn v West Ham – Under 2.5
Blackburn will be hoping for their first win of the season when they host West Ham who never travel well, and only have one senior striker in Carlton Cole.
Blackburn will be without defender Nelson (knee ligaments) and Gallagher(hamstring) is doubtful.
Ilunga(fractured cheekbone) joins long-term absentees Ashton(ankle) & Boa Morte(knee ligaments), and also likely to be missing is Behrami(knee).
Prediction: Under 2.5

Bolton v Liverpool
Bolton host an out of sorts Liverpool, but anything could happen in this one.
Bolton will be missing Gardner(hamstring), and Andy O`Brien(groin) is doubtful.
Liverpool will be without Aquilani(ankle),Agger(back) & Aurelio(knee) as they seek to get back on track.
Liverpool have been a bit unlucky with penalties being turned down etc, and if they get a slice of luck they’ll take full advantage.
Prediction: Liverpool to sneak a narrow victory

Stoke v Sunderland – Under 2.5
Stoke will check on Tonge(flu) & Faye(back) before the game against Sunderland, but striker Sidibe(knee) remains long-term injured.
Stoke are expected to name new signing defender Robert Huth in their squad.
Sunderland’s only absentee is McShane(knee) and is expected to be out for around 5 weeks.
Prediction: I can’t separate these two teams, so I think the likely result is a draw.

Tottenham v Birmingham
Spurs are flying at the moment, but it’s their unusually good early away form that’s propelled them to the top of the table.
However, their continuing success will depend on strength in depth of squad and they already have a few injuries; Keeper Gomes(thigh),Dawson(achilles) & Woodgate(groin) are all ruled out, and Jenas(calf) & Bale(cartilage) are both rated doubtful.
Birmingham have their perennial injury woes (at the start of the season!) with no fewer than 8 players on the injury list.
However, Jerome,Vignal,Mutch,Dann & Bent should shrug off theirs in time. Long-term absentees in Martin Taylor(ankle),Murphy(knee) & Ridgewell(broken leg) will hurt as they are all defenders.
Prediction: I think Tottenham have more firepower up front – Tottenham win

Wolves v Hull
Wolves are unsurprisingly finding it tough – not only are they new-comers to the Premiership, they have to cope without 4 key players that provided the ammunition & goals in last season’s promotion; Foley(knee ligaments),Kightly & Iwelumo(both metatarsal) are ruled out, and Ebanks-Blake(hamstring) is doubtful.
Hull also have injury problems; Marney & Garcia(both knee),Bullard(knee) and Ashbee(ligament tear) are all ruled out.
Prediction: Hull might just nick an away win here

Man Utd v Arsenal
Undoubtedly the match of the round, Man Utd thumped Wigan away 5-0, while Arsenal demolished Everton away from home.
This may be as good a time as any for Arsenal to get something from Old Trafford with Ferdinand(thigh),Van der Sar(thumb),Obertan(calf),Rafael(shoulder) and Hargreaves(knee) all injured.
For their part, Arsenal also have injuries to key players; Fabregas(hamstring),Nasri(broken leg) are definitely out along with Djourou(knee) and Fabianski(knee cartilage) also missing. Rosicky(hamstring) is doubtful.
Can’t help but feel Fergie should have held onto Tevez – will it come back to haunt him later in the season?
Prediction: Good value available for Arsenal +0.5

Portsmouth v Man City
Pompey need new signings and quick! The early warning signs are beginning to show, and their job won’t be made any easier with the visit of an ever stronger Man City.
Important holding midfielder Bouba Diop(hamstring) is out, and Primus(ankle),Hreidarsson(hamstring) & Finnan(hamstring) are all doubtful.
Man City will be missing Michael Johnson(groin) and Santa Cruz(knee), with Kompany(ankle) doubtful, but no matter, they will be parading new signing defender Lescott anyway.
Prediction: I can’t see any other result than an away win for Man City
 
Everton v Wigan
It will be interesting to see how Everton cope in the short-term without defender Lescott – they also have Jagielka(ligaments),Yakubu(achilles),Anichebe(knee) ruled out and influential playmaker Arteta(knee) rated doubtful.
Wigan are missing Kapo(knee ligaments), but otherwise no other injuries.
Prediction: Everton have a strong team spirit and I’m expecting a tight home win.

Aston Villa v Fulham
Villa had a somewhat fortuitous away win at Anfield the other night,with the hero of the night being keeper Friedel – what does that tell you?
They will continue to struggle while Carew(ankle) is doubtful,along with defenders Bouma & Luke Young(compassionate leave) out. Downing(ankle) is out for around 3 months.
Fulham will be missing striker Johnson(shoulder),Kallio(achilles) and Davies(ankle) is doubtful.
I like the look of this Fulham team since Roy Hodgson took over, and I think there’s some value in taking Fulham with a start here.
Prediction: Fulham +0.5

Premiership injuries / suspensions Team News 24 May 2009
 
Arsenal v Stoke City
The Gunners could hand a shock debut to reserve keeper Mannone as Almunia is out injured and Fabianski is rated 50/50.
Nasri(6gls,2assts) is also out & will miss the final game of the season, along with injury-plagued Eduardo,Gallas,Rosicky & Clichy.
Stoke are without Higginbotham(1gl,3assts),Diao,Faye(3gls) & Sidibe(3gls,2assts).
 
Aston Villa v Newcastle
Aston Villa are missing Bouma and Young(7gls,7assts) is rated doubtful.
Newcastle will travel to Villa Park without suspended duo Barton(1gl,1asst) & Bassong as they face an uphill task of keeping their Premiership status intact.Beye(1asst) is out, and Martins(8gls,2assts) is very doubtful – Owen(8gls) faces a late fitness test.
 
Blackburn v West Brom
Blackburn will again be without Dunn(1gl),Nelsen(1gl) & Givet and Ooijer(2gls,2assts) face late fitness tests.
West Brom will be without Dorrans & club-suspended Bednar(6gls,1asst) but hope to recall defenders Robinson(1asst) & Cech(1asst) for their final Premiership match.
 
Fulham v Everton
Fulham will be missing Simon Davies(2gls,5assts) when they entertain Everton at Craven Cottage, hoping to nail down a well-deserved European berth. There are no other injury worries for Fulham.
Everton, who may have one eye on the FA Cup Final next weekend, will be without Arteta(5gls,6assts),Jagielka,Yakubu(4gls,1asst) & Valente.
 
Hull City v Man Utd
Hull’s on-loan striker Manucho(2gls) will be ineligible to face parent club Man Utd in what could be Hull’s final Premiership match.
Man Utd will travel to the KC Stadium resting Rooney(12gls,7assts),Ronaldo(18gls,6assts) & Carrick(4gls,5assts) with Macheda(2gls) & Welbeck(1gl) looking likely to lead the attack.
If ever Hull were going to beat Man Utd to stay up, this is the game….
 
Liverpool v Tottenham
Liverpool’s final game of the season marks an end to Hyypia(1gl)’s term at Anfield.
Spurs will be without Lennon(5gls,4assts),Dawson(1gl,2assts),Huddlestone(1asst), O’Hara(1gl) & Palacios.
Woodgate(1gl) & Assou-Ekotto(1asst) face late fitness tests.
 
Man City v Bolton
City will be without Johnson & Hamman, but Bellamy & Robinho may figure but the game may come too soon for them both.
Bolton have O’Brien(1gl,1asst) available again, but Gardner(4gls,1asst) will miss the final game of the season.
 
Sunderland v Chelsea
Sunderland have doubts over Malbranque(1gl,8assts) & McCartney, while Nosworthy & Gordon face late fitness tests.
Chelsea could call upon Ballack(1gl,3assts),Deco(3gls,2assts) & Carvalho(1gl,1asst) when they travel to The Stadium of Light.
An Anelka brace could do for the Black Cats in this one.
 
West Ham v Middlesbrough
The Hammers have the luxury of playing the last game of the season, for once, with no relegation worries. They’ll be missing suspended Tomkins(1gl), but Cole(9gls,3assts) & Gabbidon could return for West Ham.
Boro will be missing Alves(4gls,1asst),Pogatetz(1gl) & likely Downing(3assts) for their must-win game at West Ham.
However, Wheater(1gl,1asst),Aliadiere(2gls,2assts) & O’Neil(3gls,1asst) could return to bolster a Boro side that must win to keep afloat.
 
Wigan v Portsmouth
Wigan quartet;Valencia(3gls,4assts),Mido(2gls),Scharner(2assts) & Kirklans are likely to miss this game.
Pompey will again be without Kranjcar(3gls,3assts),Bouba Diop & Mvuemba.
Most likely result is a draw.
 

Premiership injuries / suspensions Team News 16-18 May 2009

Man Utd v Arsenal
Man Utd will again be without Ferdinand as they bid to capture another Premiership title. A draw is enough, regardless of whether Liverpool win their last 2 games or not.
Arsenal have had little to cheer about lately, and their disappointing run-in looks set to continue against an invincible Man Utd.
Keeper Almunia is injured, along with Rosicky,Clichy(1gl),Gallas(2gls) & Eduardo.
However, Arshavin(6gls,5assts) has shrugged off a virus and should play.
 
Prediction: Man Utd win to capture another title

 
Bolton v Hull City
Bolton look to edge opponents Hull a step nearer the trap door, but Gardner(4gls,1asst) will miss the final two games.
Defender Shittu may return.
Hull, who have lost five games on the trot, will have their work cut out at the Reebok Stadium as they are missing Mendy(2gls,2assts),Ashbee(1gl,1asst),Bullard & Anthony Gardner through injury and Folan(1gl) is suspended.
Zayatte(1gl,1asst) looks set to return to the squad.
 
Prediction: It’s all about momentum in the run-in and Hull’s confidence will be at an all-time low – Bolton win.

 
Everton v West Ham
Everton are still missing players as they have all season; Jagielka,Arteta(5gls,6assts),Anichebe(1gl,1asst),Yakubu(4gls,1asst),Hibbert(1asst) & Valente.
West Ham welcome back top scorer Cole(9gls,3assts), but will have to travel to Goodison Park without Dyer(1asst),Parker(1gl,3assts) & Collins.
 
Prediction: Everton have home advantage while chasing an automatic European spot ahead of Villa – Everton win

 
Middlesbrough v Aston Villa
Boro have defender Wheater(1gl,1asst) back for their do or die fixture against Villa.
However,Pogatetz(1gl),Riggott,Digard(2assts) & Alves(4gls,1asst) will all be missing this crucial clash.
Villa hope to have Barry(5gls,7assts) back from injury, and Luke Young(1gl) & Cuellar hope to figure also.
 
Prediction: It’s make or break for Boro, they need it more than Villa. Middlesbrough win

 
Newcastle Utd v Fulham
Newcastle will be missing Enrique(2assts) and Smith is rated 50/50. Martins(8gls,2assts) is expected to be fit, but Barton(1gl,1asst) continues his suspension and misses the match.
Fulham will be without Davies(2gls,5assts), and Barnes & Johnson(7gls,3assts) are both doubtful.
 
Prediction: St.James Park will be rocking and the crowd are often Newcastle’s extra player – Newcastle need this & will win…just

 
Stoke City v Wigan
Stoke will be without on-loan striker Camara as he’s ineligible to face his employers, but Wilkinson is expected to be fit.
Wigan may recall Mido(2gls) to the starting line-up, while first choice keeper Kirkland is still injured so Kingson looks set to continue between the sticks.
 
Prediction: I can’t separate these two teams – Draw

 
Tottenham v Man City
Spurs are still missing Bent(12gls,2assts),O’Hara(1gl) & Zokora.
Dawson(1gl,2assts) & Lennon(5gls,4assts) are hoping to be fit in time.
Man City’s Wright-Phillips(5gls,3assts) looks set to be on the bench, while Robinho(14gls,5assts) is out with a groin injury so occasional striker Petrov deputises.
 
Prediction: Man City tend not to travel well & with the loss of Robinho – Tottenham win

 
West Brom v Liverpool
The Baggies look set to retain Kiely in goal ahead of Carson who returns from injury. Dorrans hopes to be fit, but Morrison(3gls,3assts) & Meite(1asst) continue on the sidelines.
Liverpool may be out of the title challenge before they even start this game, and is compounded by Alonso(3gls,4assts) rated very doubtful, along with Degen continuing his absence.
 
Prediction: Liverpool to win – regardless of the Man Utd/Arsenal result

 
Chelsea v Blackburn
Chelsea have the usual suspects still sidelined; Deco,Joe Cole,Carvalho & Ferreira.
Rovers hope that Roberts(7gls,2assts) is fit, but Santa Cruz(4gls,2assts),Dunn(1gl),Emerton(1gl,2assts) & Reid(1asst) continue to be sidelined.
 
Prediction: A Chelsea home win, worth a punt on a 1-0 scoreline

 
Portsmouth v Sunderland
Pompey are relieved to have Pamarot back from suspension, and Traore may return as well to shore up their defence.
Sunderland travel to Fratton Park not completely out of the woods, and are missing keeper Gordon,Nosworthy & Connolly.
McCartney is doubtful and will have to pass a late fitness test.
 
Prediction: Portsmouth win

Premiership injuries / suspensions Team News 9-10 May 2009

Blackburn v Portsmouth
Blackburn will be missing strike duo Santa Cruz(4gls,2assts) & Roberts(7gls,2assts) through injury.
Makeshift striker/defender Samba(2gls,3assts) may partner McCarthy(9gls,3assts) in attack.
Pompey have serious defensive shortages with Johnson(3gls,3assts) & Kaboul(1gl,1asst) are very doubtful while Pamarot is suspended.
Crouch(11gls,5assts) looks set to continue alone up front.

Bolton v Sunderland
Bolton will look at this match as their best chance to mathematically secure another season in the top flight.
They have Mark Davies(2assts) back in training but this game will be too soon. Shittu & Gardner(4gls,1asst) may figure at some stage.
Sunderland may have Tainio available for the trip to the Reebok, but keeper Gordon is definitely ruled out for the season.
The game will be too soon for McCartney also.

Everton v Tottenham
Everton continue without Arteta(6gls,6assts),Yakubu(4gls,1asst),Anichebe(1gl,1asst) & Jagielka when they entertain Spurs.
Spurs will be missing Bent(12gls,2assts) & Dawson(1gl,2assts) when they travel to Goodison Park.

Fulham v Aston Villa
Fulham’s Simon Davies(2gls,5assts) is again missing, but Fulham are hoping Barnes and Johnson(7gls,3assts) recover from knocks.
Aston Villa await late fitness tests on Cuellar,Petrov(1gl,2assts) & Ashley Young(6gls,7assts) before naming their side.

Hull v Stoke City
Hull continue without Gardner & Bullard in their massive game against Stoke. A loss here will really put pressure on the Tigers as they bid to pull away from the bottom three.
Stoke have an injury crisis ahead of their clash with Hull. A draw should ensure their survival but Faye(3gls),Higginbotham(1gl,3assts),Sidibe(3gls,2assts) & Diao are all out. Beattie(6gls,3assts) & Lawrence(2gls,3assts) also face late fitness tests.

West Brom v Wigan
The Baggies may be relegated after this match if they lose, and won’t be helped by Robinson(1asst) & Morrison(3gls,3assts) doubtful through injury. Dorrans is also a doubt and will have to pass a late fitness test.
Wigan, who can relax now, hope to have Melchiot(1asst) & Scharner(2assts) back from injury.

West Ham v Liverpool
West Ham should have Savio back from illness, but Parker(1gl,3assts),Dyer & Collins are all sidelined. Cole(9gls,3assts) continues his recovery but probably won’t make this game.
Liverpool will again be without Hyypia(1gl) & Degen, but hope Mascherano(1asst) & Alonso(3gls,4assts) make a return.

Man Utd v Man City
United will have Neville returning to the squad,along with Tevez(3gls,3assts),Berbatov(9gls,8assts) & Scholes(2gls,2assts) hoping for recalls. Brown(1gl) is out for the season.
Man City will be missing United’s tormentor Benjani(1gl) & Bellamy(2gls) as they are injured. Benjani scored in the corresponding fixture last season to ruin the Munich disaster anniversary at Old Trafford.

Arsenal v Chelsea
The Gunners will be without injured trio Clichy(1gl),Gallas(2gls) & Rosicky. Eduardo is very doubtful.
Chelsea also have the regular players out; Deco(3gls,2assts),Carvalho(1gl,1asst),Ferreira and Joe Cole.

Premiership injuries / suspensions Team News 2-3 May 2009

Middlesbrough v Man United
Middlesbrough look set to be without Pogatetz(1gl) & Riggott.
Man Utd will be missing key defender Ferdinand for their trip to The Riverside. Wes Brown(1gl) is set to cover.

Chelsea v Fulham
Chelsea will be without Deco(3gls,2assts),Carvalho(1gl,1asst),Cole & Ferreira.
Fulham appear to have no injury worries ahead of their all-London clash against Chelsea.

Man City v Blackburn
City are waiting on a late fitness test for Richards(1gl), but Wright-Phillips(5gls,3assts) is certain to be out.
Blackburn will be without Dunn(1gl),Santa Cruz(4gls,2assts) & Roberts(7gls,2assts) ** *Portsmouth v Arsenal*
Pompey could recall Pennant(3assts) & Kaboul(1gl,1asst), but Kranjcar(3gls,3assts) is out injured and Traore is ineligible.
Arsenal will be without a host of players including Van Persie(9gls,9assts),Eduardo,Silvestre(2gls,1asst),Clichy(1gl),Gallas(2gls) & Rosicky.

Stoke v West Ham
Stoke wait on Beattie’s(6gls,3assts) fitness, while Faye(3gls),Higginbotham(1gl,3assts),Sidibe(3gls,2assts) & Diao are all out injured.
Wilkinson is doubtful.
The Hammers will still have to do without Collison(3gls) & Cole(9gls,3assts), but no new injuries to report.

Tottenham v West Brom
Tottenham striker Bent(12gls,2assts) is out injured, but Defoe(2gls,1asst) & Pavluychenko(5gls,1asst) are hoping to return along with Campbell(1gl).
West Brom will be without Meite(1asst) & Morrison(3gls,3assts) and Dorrans is doubtful.

Wigan v Bolton
Wigan look set to have Mido(2gls) & Zaki(10gls,1asst) available for their local derby with Bolton.
Bolton hope to recall Gardner(4gls,1asst) & Shittu.

Liverpool v Newcastle
Liverpool hope to have Gerrard(13gls,6assts) back from injury.
Hyppia(1gl) & Degen are still sidelined.
Newcastle are missing Enrique(2assts) & Taylor(3gls,1asst), while Gutierrez(3assts) is available again.

Sunderland v Everton
Sunderland will be missing keeper Gordon,Nosworthy & McCartney when they entertain Everton.
Everton are without Rodwell & Jagielka.