This Weekends English Premier League & Carling Cup Final Fixtures

PREMIER LEAGUE FIXTURES

(All kick-offs are 1500 GMT unless specified)

SATURDAY

Birmingham City v Arsenal (1245 GMT)

I'm going to tip Birmingham to win this one.

The Blues are struggling a little bit for form but they had last week off, their players will be refreshed and they will be up for this game.

It has not been a great week for Arsenal with their 4-0 FA Cup defeat at Manchester United. The Gunners looked like they did not want to be at Old Trafford and that is not a good sign.

Having said that, I thought their goalless draw with AC Milan was not a bad result as I expected the Italians to score an away goal.

Verdict: 2-1

Fulham v West Ham United

Fulham's new players plus the return of Jimmy Bullard and Brian McBride from injury has made a real difference and given the Cottagers a chance of avoiding the drop.

West Ham have an outside chance of qualifying for next season's Uefa Cup.

Considering the squad Alan Curbishley has to work with and the injuries his team has suffered, the Hammers have had a decent season so far.

Verdict: 1-1

Liverpool v Middlesbrough

Liverpool scored two incredibly important late goals against Inter Milan in their Champions League tie on Tuesday.

The later in the match you score, the less time the opposition has to reply. It is amazing how often good teams score late on - just look at Manchester United.

I don't know where the stories originated that Rafael Benitez was under pressure and close to losing his job. They certainly did not come from within the football club.

What is clear about Liverpool is that when they field their strongest XI they have a good side.