Another action-packed weekend is right on us with a number of crunch matches lined up. So far, no game has been postponed, as has been the norm recently, but that can’t be ruled out yet. Teams have strengthened in preparation for the second half of the season and for some, the investments are already paying off.
The January transfer window is normally very short, hectic and tough to get desired players in. A few clubs have however managed to beef up or seal loopholes in their squads. Here we look at a few of the new signings who could light up the Prem this weekend.
Philippe Coutinho: The Brazilian, signed by Aston Villa on loan from Barcelona, is among the highest profile signings of January so far. He got his debut in the 2-2 draw with Manchester United, and it will be impossible to talk about that game without mentioning Coutinho. He came from the bench and provided an assist and a goal to see Villa rise from 2-0 down and he will be expected to give more when they face Everton next.
Lucas Digne: Another new signing who had a great debut at Aston Villa. Signed from Everton, perhaps Digne’s only blemish from his debut will be the yellow card he picked. Otherwise, he had a good showing and will be expected to give good competition to Matt Targett, whose levels have dipped lately. There’s a confidence boost and good vibes at Villa Park and without a doubt, Aston Villa will be the favorites in the weekend football prediction on Wincomparator, as they prepare to take on a troubled Everton side that recently sacked the manager.
Chris Wood: Newcastle United also made a big move in the transfer market, looking to address a poor season that has been their highlight in the first leg. They have already brought in New Zealand forward Chris Wood from Burnley and are looking to reap from his experience. Wood started against Watford and played full time. With Callum Wilson out injured we still expect to see Wood starting when they face Leeds United. A win should enable Newcastle rise from the relegation zone and Wood will be a key man in that, after his debut ended in a 1-1 draw with Watford.
Kieran Trippier: Another one of Newcastle United’s new signings is England international Kieran Trippier, who joined from Atletico Madrid. He got his debut in the draw with Watford and showed some good glimpses in his partnership with Ryan Fraser on the flank. A former Tottenham Hotspur defender, Trippier will not take long to adapt to the pace of the Premier League. He is also experienced and coming from the Spanish champions, he will have the competitive edge in him to push Newcastle United. Without a doubt, he will light up the league this weekend.
Under two weeks remain before the transfer window is shut and we still expect to see some top transfer dealings, especially with the big teams, which have so far not made any confirmations for incoming deals.