BOXING DAY

Birmingham v Chelsea (1245 GMT)

Birmingham have been on an excellent run of nine games without defeat, which has more or less coincided with the new owner taking over.

However, it puts Blues under a little bit of pressure going into this game. Normally most of their supporters would not expect them to take any points from this fixture but now there is a level of expectation to obtain a result.

Chelsea could do with a victory and I think that they will end Birmingham's unbeaten sequence.

SATURDAY 26 DECEMBER

Celtic v Hamilton

Celtic will be really disappointed with what happened at Tynecastle last week. Leading 1-0, I just couldn't see Celtic letting it slip, but it just didn't go for them. If they had won that match, it would really have set them up nicely for the festive fixtures. They are at home to Hamilton, which ought to be the ideal chance for three points.

Hamilton will cause them problems, though, and will have a few moments in the match where they will have to score. They must take their chances. But if Celtic can keep it tight at the back, it should be a comfortable home win.

SATURDAY

Portsmouth v Liverpool (1245 GMT)

Portsmouth got a good draw with a late equaliser last Saturday and by all accounts produced a decent performance as well at Chelsea.

There's no doubt that Portsmouth's performances have not been reflected in the number of points they've won - they are a little better than their points tally would suggest.

SATURDAY 19 DECEMBER

Aberdeen v Hibernian

Aberdeen are under pressure, especially being at home. After their win over Rangers, they've suffered defeats to Celtic and Hamilton.

Hibs are still doing well overall, but need to do a lot better on the road.

Both sides will, of course, be looking to win the game, but it looks like a draw to me.

Prediction: 1-1

SATURDAY

Stoke v Wigan (1245 GMT)

There has obviously been a bit of unrest at Stoke this week following the altercation between manager Tony Pulis and striker James Beattie.

You might call it old-fashioned management - the sort of thing that used to happen every other day.

I have seen lots of players held by the throat half way up the dressing room wall.

I don't think too much should not be made of it and I don't think it will affect Stoke's performance on Sunday.

Aberdeen v Hamilton

This is one the home side will be expecting to win after a disappointing display at Celtic Park last weekend.

Captain Mark Kerr will be back from suspension and he is a big player for the Dons; he keeps things ticking over and allows the younger players to bomb on and express themselves.

Hamilton are capable of springing the odd surprise result and they are a dogged side if they get their noses in front.

The visitors will have their moments but I fancy Aberdeen to get back to a solid 4-4-2 and get the job done without too much fuss.

Prediction: 2-0