Paul Merson makes prediction for Arsenal vs Aston Villa and Leicester vs Man Utd

Paul Merson is certain Arsenal will keep up with their ideal beginning to the Premier League season when they face Aston Villa, however expects Manchester United to drop point at Leicester City.

The Gunners are the only team yet to drop a point in the Premier League this campaign, with Mikel Arteta’s side beating Crystal Palace on the opening weekend and Leicester City, Bournemouth and Fulham since.

Paul Merson: Arsenal vs Aston Villa prediction

“I think Arsenal will win this, but it’ll be a slightly harder game than what they would expect,’ Merson told Sportskeeda.

“Aston Villa are really struggling at the moment and have Manchester City to come after this one, so Steven Gerrard will definitely be feeling the pressure.

“There’s a lot going wrong with his team at the moment and he doesn’t know his best XI, which is a worrying sign if you’re a Villa fan.

“Martin Odegaard is someone who has impressed me at the start of the season. He’s a very good footballer and has got a proper footballing brain – I can’t understand how Real Madrid let a player of his calibre go for as little as €30 million!

“He’s led by example so far and looks set to be a key player for the Gunners this season. I’m going 2-1 Arsenal.”

Paul Merson: Manchester United vs Leicester prediction

Former Arsenal and England winger Merson added: “Manchester United did sort of ride their luck in their 1-0 win against Southampton.

“They didn’t play particularly well, but you could also argue that Southampton didn’t really come too close to getting even a point.

“Leicester City will be kicking themselves for not getting at least a point against ten-man Chelsea after Gallagher’s red card, which was a bad result for them.

“To make matters worse, Wesley Fofana is leaving for Chelsea and the likes of Youri Tielemans and James Maddison could also move before the transfer window slams shut.

“People are getting a little carried away with Manchester United because of their result against Liverpool, but you have to keep in mind that their performance against Southampton wasn’t great. If that game had ended in a draw, no one would have complained!

“I see goals in this one, so I’m going for a 2-2 draw. Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t start the last two games and Manchester United have won, so I expect him to be on the bench this time around as well.

“His future is still not sorted and I’d be shocked if he stays at the club beyond the transfer window.”