Premier League

Leicester are yet to follow up a midweek match with a weekend victory this season so look uneasy favourites when they make a tricky trip to Brentford on Sunday. Wednesday’s Europa League visit to Russia was their fourth midweek game with the others followed by a 2-1 defeat at Brighton and 2-2 draws with Burnley and Crystal Palace.

Newcastle’s long-term future looks healthy following the recent takeover but they have plenty of problems in the short term. The Magpies remain without a win this season and have the worst defensive record in the Premier League so it could be a long wait until the transfer window opens in January.

There was plenty of late drama in the previous matches involving Arsenal and Aston Villa and neutrals will hope for similar excitement on Friday night. The Gunners rescued a 2-2 draw at home to Crystal Palace with a last-gasp equaliser while Villa threw away a two-goal lead in a 3-2 defeat against Wolves.

Wolves are enjoying a fine run of form under new manager Bruno Lage and will be determined to keep it going against Leeds at Elland Road. The Portuguese lost his first three league matches – which arguably belied impressive performances – but has turned it round to win four of the last five and their last three matches.

Claudio Ranieri’s return to English football proved to be a real baptism of fire as Watford were torn to shreds by a rampant Liverpool at Vicarage Road and they will hope to fare better against the blue half of Merseyside. Watford’s decision to dismiss Xisco Munoz and bring in the experienced Italian faces an immediate examination with Arsenal, Leicester, Chelsea and Manchester City all to play in the next six matches.

St James’ Park will be jumping for Newcastle’s first match since the Saudi-backed takeover and we’re hoping Tottenham don’t spoil the party. Spurs have done well at this venue in recent years but have not looked as comfortable under new boss Nuno Espirito Santo.

Everton shade favouritism over West Ham for this clash between two of the Premier League’s most exciting sides this season. Only Liverpool and Chelsea have scored more top-flight goals than the Hammers, while the Toffees are only one behind United, with 13 to their name.

Arsenal enjoyed a resurgence before the international break and will be keen to see off Crystal Palace at Emirates Stadium. The Eagles are coming to terms with changes implemented by Patrick Vieira but still appear vulnerable on the road in the Premier League.

Only a point separates Aston Villa and Wolves ahead of this West Midlands derby and a close contest is expected. Wolves have won their last two and things are finally coming together for Bruno Lage’s side, but Villa are unbeaten in front of their own fans this season.

Brentford have been a breath of fresh air since gaining promotion to the Premier League and are taken to give Chelsea a decent test. The Bees have picked up seven points from their last three matches, winning away to Wolves and West Ham either side of a draw with Liverpool here.

United failed to beat Leicester in two Premier League meetings and an FA Cup tie last season. However, Ole Gunner Solskjaer will be keen for that to change this term and may unleash Cristiano Ronaldo, who will be looking for his sixth goal of the season in all competitions.