Alan Shearer has shared his forecasts for the initial matches of the new Premier League season. The legendary former England forward expects a successful kick-off for Manchester United, Manchester City, and Chelsea, though he hesitated to choose a winner in some intriguing clashes.
In the fixture between Hull City and Manchester United, Shearer is backing Michael Carrick's side:
I think this will be a very different season for Manchester United. Michael Carrick has done an excellent job and deserves to continue. I know the transfer for Carlos Baleba is still being finalised, but United will have too much of an advantage over Hull.
Additionally, the pundit predicts home victories for Ipswich over Sunderland and Everton against Crystal Palace.
For three matches, Shearer is anticipating draws: Nottingham Forest vs Leeds, Brentford vs Tottenham, and Brighton vs Aston Villa:
Tottenham have spent huge sums of money, but it's a very tricky match. Brentford were brilliant last season, and Keith Andrews was one of the best coaches in the league. I’ll go for a draw.
In the standout Sunday encounter between Newcastle and Liverpool, Shearer also sees no clear favourite:
It’s going to be a highly charged atmosphere due to the events in memory of Kevin Keegan. He meant so much to both clubs and their supporters. I think the match will end in a draw.
Nevertheless, Shearer expects Manchester City to defeat Bournemouth, despite their recent loss to Arsenal in the Community Shield.
Wrapping up the round, Shearer predicts a win for Chelsea over Fulham:
I’m backing the visitors. I think Chelsea will have a successful season, while Fulham will really struggle.
