We put our necks on the line with our match predictions for this weekend’s Premier League fixtures

After some truly enthralling international fixtures, domestic football is back with a bang this weekend.

The action kicks-off with the fiery Merseyside derby at lunchtime on Saturday. Not always the most aesthetically pleasing encounter, but what it often lacks in flowing football is made up for with full-throttle aggression.

Southampton travel to Arsenal after that in what is arguably the most eye-catching clash of the weekend. Arsene Wenger’s side still lead the way at the top of the table, while Southampton’s fantastic start to the season sees the Saints occupy third. But how will this one go?

Mauricio Pochettino’s side have only lost one of their six away ties in the league, and are unbeaten in three. Since their shock defeat to Aston Villa on the opening day, Arsenal have won every home league fixture since, conceding only twice and scoring on 10 occasions.

Long odds | Don’t rule out Cazorla finding the net from distance this weekend

All in all, it’s looking tight on paper and likely to be decided by fine margins. One of which could be Arsenal’s shooting ability from range. Southampton, despite their impressive defensive record this season, are susceptible from outside the box, with 45 per cent of attempts against them coming from distance. Don’t be surprised to see Santi Cazorla ripple the net this weekend.

The big match this Sunday sees Tottenham travel to Manchester City, with both sides languishing close to mid-table, in seventh and eighth, respectively.

Manchester City’s home form is as impressive as their away results have been dismal, while Tottenham find themselves second only to Arsenal in the away form table. Nonetheless, with City boasting five wins from five on home soil, Spurs will have their work cut out at the Etihad Stadium.

Agueroooo! | City have won all three matches Aguero has played against Spurs

Sergio Aguero is one particular threat which Andre Villas-Boas’ side will do well to suppress. The Argentine has scored 12 goals in City’s last 10 matches in all competitions, and their 1-0 defeat at Sunderland ended a run of scoring in six consecutive matches. Don’t count on him missing out for a second game in a row.

For all of this weekend’s fixtures and predictions, not to mention where we see the matches being won and lost, check out the video at the top of the page!