bowhillbear

2nd v 12th. Eight of the last nine matches between these two sides have seen over 2.5 goals scored, with nine goals in the reverse fixture. Manchester City are 4-2-0 from six at home in the Premier League recently, with a goals aggregate of 13-4, seeing at least two goals in all six and over 2.5 goals in three. Fulham are 3-1-2 from six away from home with a goals aggregate of 9-8, with over 2.5 goals scored in three of those six games.

2nd v 12th. Manchester City won the reverse fixture 4-3, and goals could feature again. They are 4-2-0 from 6 at home in the Premier League recently, with a goals aggregate of 13-4, including wins by 3-2 and 3-0 (twice). Fulham are 3-1-2 from 6 away from home, with a goals aggregate of 9-8, including a 3-2 win and a 2-3 defeat.

18th v 14th. This looks a close contest, with Charlton 2-1-3 from 6 at home in the Championship recently, with a goals aggregate of 6-10. Stoke are 2-2-2 from 6 away from home, with a goals aggregate of 4-3.

A likely low-scoring match. Charlton are 2-1-3 from 6 at home in the league recently, with a goals aggregate of 6-10, seeing under 2.5 goals in 3 of their last 4 games. Stoke are 2-2-2 from 6 away from home, with a goals aggregate of 4-3 and under 2.5 goals scored in all 6 matches.

Stockport finished 3rd last season, reaching the playoff semifinals. They are consistent, and whilst having lost some key players, new arrivals should mean that they are strong again this season. Manager David Challinor has a good record and can lead a promotion push again.

13th last season, but with potential to improve in 2025/26. They have a new manager with good Championship form, having guided Bristol City into the playoffs last season.

Could do well for a Derby side that should have a good season. Hampered by injury so far, but believed to be fit again now. He scored 18 goals in 81 appearances for Charlton, his previous club.

7th last season, 14 points behind the champions, Chesterfield have strengthened an already strong squad and can secure a top three place this season. Experienced Manager Paul Cook has already secured 4 promotions.

Winners two years ago and 5th round losers last season, Manchester United may not challenge for the Premier League but have spent £200 million on pre-season signings. Given a kind draw, they could reach another final at least.

Brentford are established in the Premier League and finished 10th last season, but they have lost their long time manager Thomas Frank together with a number of key players who have moved on. They may struggle, and could fill the third relegation place after Burnley and Sunderland.

The Swedish international striker has scored 54 goals in 86 appearances for Newcastle United, including 23 goals in 34 Premier League appearances last season. Whether with Newcastle this season, or possibly after moving to Liverpool, he will get many goalscoring opportunities.