Premier League countdown: every match assessed for this weekend

Liverpool v Norwich
Sky Football, 8pm Friday

The Canaries are back and kick off the 2019-20 Premier League campaign with a daunting trip to Anfield. The Reds have hit five goals in four of their last six games against Norwich but the current City side should keep it closer.

West Ham v Man City
BT Sport, 12.30pm Saturday

The champions have already crushed West Ham 4-1 in pre-season and ex-City chief Manuel Pellegrini has to be concerned how leaky his Hammers have been over the summer. They have bags of firepower, though, so this promises goals.

Bournemouth v Sheffield Utd
3pm Saturday

This is not the worst road trip first up for the promoted Blades, who were outstanding away from home on the run-in last season. Bournemouth’s suspect defence shipped 70 goals and offer hope to all opponents. United can nick a point.

Burnley v Southampton
3pm Saturday

These sides kicked off last season with a 0-0 draw and another tight one is expected. The Clarets, desperate to avoid their horror start to last season (just two wins in 15), will be tested by the resurgent Saints.

Crystal Palace v Everton
3pm Saturday

Five of the last eight top-flight tussles between these teams have ended in draws though Everton should fancy their chances this time. The Eagles have lost their home opener in each of the last seven seasons.

Watford v Brighton
3pm Saturday

Watford began last season with a 2-0 win at home to Brighton, who they have conceded just one goal to in their last five meetings. This could be the first defeat of many for an Albion side facing a battle to survive.

Tottenham v Aston Villa
Sky Football, 5.30pm Saturday

Big-spenders Villa should relish taking on the Champions League finalists, who have won just three of their last 12. However, Tottenham impressed in pre-season and can kick off with a win.

Leicester v Wolves
2pm Sunday

The battle for seventh starts here. It has already been a tough summer for Wolves with trips to China, Northern Ireland and Armenia, and Leicester, massive improvers under Brendan Rodgers, will hope to take full advantage.

Newcastle v Arsenal
Sky Football, 2pm Sunday

Arsenal’s pre-season spending spree will be hard for Toon fans to take and gives the Gunners a substantial edge. They have won 12 of their last 13 against Newcastle, who are under pressure before the season has started.

Man Utd v Chelsea
Sky Football, 4.30pm Sunday

Frank Lampard inherits a side who finished last term superbly, clinching third spot and winning the Europa League. United, meanwhile, won only two of their last 12 in all competitions. However, they have had the better summer and may well prevail.

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