Tottenham to lose and Liverpool to grind a win out predicts Charlie Nicholas
Thursday 1 October 2015 13:48, UK
Charlie Nicholas is back with his Europa League preview as all three British sides look to build on solid starts.
Liverpool and Celtic picked up a point apiece from trips to Bordeaux and Ajax respectively, while Tottenham came from behind to beat FC Qarabag at White Hart Lane.
However, former Arsenal striker Nicholas believes it will tough for Spurs to maintain their momentum, with Saturday's 4-1 victory over Manchester City, shifting Mauricio Pochettino's focus towards the league.
Monaco v Tottenham (Thursday, 6pm)
"This should be an entertaining one. As we saw when they put my lot Arsenal out, they were defensively solid but their recent scorelines suggest that they have been anything but that of late.
"I think they will beat Spurs because, as much as they've picked up in the league, the manager can't take a risk in playing his best side and he'd rather have them fresh for the weekend. I think he'll make changes and I think Monaco will probably edge this one.
CHARLIE PREDICTS: 2-1 (8/1 with Sky Bet)
Liverpool v Sion (Thursday, 8.05pm)
"Well after doing Liverpool at the weekend the main issue is nursing Sturridge. The encouraging thing was the link up with two strikers. However, they are still so nervous at the back.
"Sion lost at the weekend despite playing against 10 men for much of the game, so they certainly have their own issues. I'd expect Sturridge and (Philippe) Coutinho to be rested with Danny Ings and two or three of the kids providing the firepower so, most importantly; they are ready for the derby. They should have enough and I'm expecting them to grind out a win.
CHARLIE PREDICTS: 2-0 (11/2 with Sky Bet)
Celtic v Fenerbahce (Thursday 8.05pm)
A point at Amsterdam was really a good result but they're still a bit all over the place and unconvincing. I think Fenerbahce are the best team in the group and it's going to be another tough night with the likes of Robin van Persie and Nani.
"It won't be a full house because of the lack of quality that's been brought in but Celtic are strong at home and I expect them to get a draw. Kris Commons is the only player with that creative quality and if he plays then they'll score and hopefully get a point, which wouldn't be a bad result.
