Premier League and FA Cup Semi-Finals: 10 Things to Look Out for This Weekend
As the Premier League and FA Cup semi-finals approach, football fans are eagerly anticipating a weekend of thrilling matches. The Guardian takes a closer look at 10 key storylines to watch out for this weekend.
1. George Can Be the Difference for Chelsea
Tyrique George has been making waves since breaking into Chelsea’s first team. The 19-year-old winger has impressed in his Conference League outings and is in contention for his first start in the league against Everton on Saturday. According to The Guardian, George’s enthusiasm and direct playing style could make a difference against Everton. As The Guardian notes, George "has quickly become a favourite with supporters" and his pace and agility on the ball make him a promising young talent.
2. Hürzeler Needs to Snooze, Not Lose
Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler has been trying to improve his sleep patterns with the help of a sleep expert. As reported by The Guardian, Hürzeler has introduced an electric bike commute to work to help him relax. With West Ham visiting the Amex Stadium on Saturday, Brighton supporters will be hoping that Hürzeler’s newfound peace of mind can inspire a turnaround in their fortunes. The Guardian quotes Hürzeler as saying, "I have been trying to improve my sleep but it doesn’t happen overnight."
3. Can McKenna Prolong Inevitable Drop?
Ipswich’s relegation woes are expected to continue as they face Champions League-chasing Newcastle. According to The Guardian, Jack Clarke’s return to St James’ Park will be met with boos from the home crowd. The focus will be on Liam Delap, a highly-coveted centre-forward who could be auditioning for potential suitors like Chelsea and Manchester United. As The Guardian notes, Clarke "may welcome a bit of recognition after a season in which his newfound status as a bit-part player has served as a microcosm of the gulf between the top and second tiers."
4. Saints Try to Dodge Unwanted Record
Southampton are on the brink of setting an unwanted record as the worst team in Premier League history. The Guardian reports that a win against Fulham could help them surpass Derby’s tally from 2007-08. With Manchester City and Arsenal to come in their final Premier League games, this match is a crucial opportunity for Saints to boost their points tally. As The Guardian notes, Southampton have "won once, against Sean Dyche’s appalling version of Everton, and battled to draws with Ipswich and Crystal Palace" at home this season.
5. End of an Era for Vardy and Leicester
Jamie Vardy’s departure at the end of the season marks the end of an era for Leicester City. The 38-year-old striker is the last remaining member of the 2015-16 title-winning squad. According to The Guardian, Vardy will break the 500-game mark in a Leicester shirt if he plays in every remaining game this season. As The Guardian notes, Vardy is "worthy of the statue mooted after he announced his departure" and his achievements will go down in club folklore.
6. Emery Finds Himself in Another Dogfight
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is seeking to overcome Crystal Palace in the FA Cup semi-final. The Guardian reports that Villa have struggled against Palace this season, failing to win in three meetings. Emery will need to find a way to counter the speed of Eberechi Eze and Ismaïla Sarr to avoid another disappointment. As The Guardian notes, Palace were "the better team" in their 2-2 draw at Villa Park earlier this season.
7. Amorim Should Know the Kids Are All Right
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has prioritised the Europa League semi-final against Athletic Bilbao. According to The Guardian, Amorim has started youngsters like Tyler Fredricson and Harry Amass in recent matches. However, the use of academy players has been inconsistent, and Amorim needs to back his young talent to succeed. As The Guardian notes, Amorim "showed his intent by starting the highly regarded Tyler Fredricson and Harry Amass against Wolves."
8. Don’t Expect Spurs to Spoil Anfield Party
Liverpool are on the brink of securing a second Premier League title in five years. The Guardian reports that Tottenham, their opponents on Sunday, have endured a poor away form this season. With Liverpool already beating Spurs 6-3 and 4-0 this season, it would be a seismic shock if the hosts fail to win. As The Guardian notes, Anfield has "waited long enough" for a title celebration.
9. Gibbs-White Gears Up for City Audition
Morgan Gibbs-White has been linked with a move to Manchester City this summer. According to The Guardian, the England international’s creative skills have impressed Pep Guardiola. Gibbs-White will have another chance to showcase his talent against City in the FA Cup semi-final. As The Guardian notes, Gibbs-White has "scored five and assisted nine in 29 Premier League appearances" this season.
10. Fans Left for Dust by Overuse of Wembley
The FA has been criticised for overusing Wembley Stadium. The Guardian reports that there are still tickets available for the Manchester City end at Wembley on Sunday. However, fans have expressed concerns about the inconvenience and expense of travelling to London. As The Guardian notes, hosting a semi-final between teams from Manchester and Nottingham in north-west London is "pointless and inconsiderate."
The Guardian has provided extensive coverage of the Premier League and FA Cup. For more information, visit www.theguardian.com/football.
