The Dugout Discussion – Saturday

Saturday’s entree is comprised of a half-dozen mid-afterrnoon kick-offs, with most Fantasy managers invested in the result of Arsenal’s trip to West Bromwich Albion.

Despite ranking joint-third for shut-outs (six) this season, the Baggies have suffered at the Hawthorns, conceding more home goals (12) than any other team. There’s real scope for improvement on the attacking front, too, given that they place bottom for goals (10) and attempts (144). The Gunners approach this match-up in high spirits, having won their previous three road clashes by an aggregate of 11-2. Arsene Wenger’s troops chalked up more big chances (15) than the rest of the field over the past four Gameweeks, so the home side’s defence is in for a testing afternoon.

Newcastle go in search of their third successive clean sheet when Leicester City roll up to St James’ Park. Across the last four Gameweeks, these two teams rank joint-second for shots on target (21), so a high-scoring affair could be on the cards. Both defences have flattered to deceive this term: while the Magpies possess the second worst defensive record (13 goals conceded) over the last six Gameweeks, the Foxes have just one clean sheet to their name in 12 outings.

If the underlying statistics are anything to go by, Everton’s home tie against Aston Villa harbours the potential to present a few surprises. Although the Toffees thrashed Sunderland 6-2 in their most recent Goodison Park showdown, only the Baggies (12) have shipped more home goals (11) than the Merseysiders throughout the season. Furthermore, Everton ranked top for shots inside the box conceded (41) over the last four Gamweeks, exposing their lack of territorial control.

Looking beyond that trio of alluring match-ups, Chelsea endeavour to arrest their three-match losing streak when they play host to a Norwich City outfit that trumped Swansea City last time out. On the south coast, two form teams meet when Southampton (six matches unbeaten) welcome a Stoke City side that’s carded four clean sheets in five fixtures. Capping off the three o’clock kick-offs, the Swans square up to Bournemouth at the Liberty Stadium.