Aston Villa vs West Ham
A story of two teams in transition. It remains to be seen how Villa will adapt to life after O'Neill but it is likely James Milner will start despite his impending move to Manchester City. West Ham have offloaded two of their surplus players and have improved their squad with the additions of Ben-Haim, Barrera, Hitzlsperger and Piquionne.
The machine put in place by Martin O'Neill is an impressive one and West Ham's new look side will need time to gel. The home supporters are likely to pull their favourites over the line.
Prediction - Aston Villa 2 : 0 West Ham
Blackburn vs Everton
Both of these sides remain relatively unchanged since last season which would immediately suggest Everton have the edge. The Blackburn wall is notoriously hard to break down so Everton will be delighted to have Artera fit to play.
Prediction - Blackburn 1 : 3 Everton
Bolton vs Fulhan
Fulhan are often unbeatable at home but it can be a different story at the Reebok. The Cottagers found an impressive balance under Roy Hodgson but must now look to start again. On the other hand, Bolton have added Martin Petrov to their side which includes impressive talents such as Cahill, Lee and Davies.
Prediction - Bolton 1 : 0 Fulham
Sunderland vs Birmingham
Birmingham were surely the surprise package of last season and have managed to keep their squad together. Sunderland have added a mixture of proven and unproven talents to their mix and will look to the talismanic Darren Bent to pull them through these tricky fixtures.
Prediction - Sunderland 2 : 1 Birmingham
Wigan vs Blackpool
You would expect the quick passing Wigan to have too much for Blackpool. The addition of Mauro Boselli gives Wigan a formidable attack which should win through against a Championship level side.
Prediction - Wigan 3 : 0 Blackpool
Wolves vs Stoke
One of those games you'd rather not watch. Both sides will opt for long ball and it may turn into Jones vs Fletcher. Both managers will take a draw and they'll probably get it.
Prediction - Wolves 0 : 0 Stoke
