Premier League predictions: Spurs edge Arsenal in derby, Manchester City win again

North London derby sees crucial clash in battle for top-four place while champions aim to move step closer to retaining title

TUESDAY - Aston Villa v Liverpool (11pm): It would be a cruel twist of fate if one of Liverpool's greatest players helped whack another nail in the coffin of their title hopes. The Reds cannot afford any more slip ups with Manchester City three points clear at the top and they face Steven Gerrard's Villa who are looking to make it three wins on the spin. Prediction: Villa 1 Liverpool 2. AFP

WEDNESDAY - Leeds v Chelsea (10.30pm): A late collapse on Saturday saw Chelsea throw away a two-goal lead at home to Wolves that means they have won just one of their last five games. Leeds' recent record is almost identical and the shambolic first-half display during their weekend defeat at Arsenal explains why they find themselves third bottom. Prediction: Leeds 2 Chelsea 3. AFP

Leicester v Norwich (10.45pm): Leicester are in desperate need of a pick-me-up after losing a European semi-final and enduring a league slump that has seen them drop to 14th in the table, without a win in five games. Relegated Norwich just want this miserable season to end are are staring at a fifth defeat on the trot. Prediction: Leicester 3 Norwich 0. AP

Watford v Everton (10.45pm): Everton appeared to have stumbled into some form at just the right time. Consecutive league wins for the first time since September mean they dragged themselves out of the drop zone after Leeds and Burnley both lost. Watford are already down and should give Frank Lampard's side a fourth win in six games. Prediction: Watford 1 Everton 3. Reuters

Wolves v Manchester City (11.15pm): City showed impressive mettle to thrash Newcastle 5-0 just days after a devastating Champions league exit at Real Madrid that means they are in control of their own destiny in the title battle with Liverpool. Wolves have lost three of their last four games and their push for a European place has fallen away badly. Prediction: Wolves 0 City 2. EPA

THURSDAY - Tottenham v Arsenal (10.45pm): A must-win game for Spurs in the battle for a top-four spot. Arsenal hold a four point advantage over their North London rivals after four victories in a row but, boosted by a rocking home stadium and the in-form Son Heung-min, Antonio Conte's side can haul themselves to within touching distance again. Prediction: Spurs 2 Arsenal 1. AFP

Some crucial battles affecting both ends of the Premier League table provide the highlights to a midweek mini round of fixtures.

On Tuesday, second-placed Liverpool head to Aston Villa knowing there can now be no room for error – after their home draw with Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend – if the Reds are to claw back Manchester City's three-point lead at the top.

Wednesday's fixtures begin with third-bottom Leeds United taking on third-top Chelsea at Elland Road, Leicester City then host relegated Norwich City, Watford – who will also be playing second-tier football next season – entertain 16th-placed Everton, while Wolves aim to throw a spanner in the works of Manchester City's title charge at Molineux.

The sole game on Thursday is a big one – the North London derby between Spurs and Arsenal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium that pits fifth place against fourth.

See our predictions for the midweek games in the gallery above. To move on to the next photo, click on the arrows or if using a mobile device, simply swipe.