Sutton’s Forecast vs ‘Roy Keane’ – Saipan Actor Hardwicke

Is This AI’s Most Outrageous Prediction?

This week’s episode features Chris Sutton with special guest, Éanna Hardwicke, who portrays Roy Keane in Saipan, a film that delves into the infamous rift between the former Manchester United captain and Republic of Ireland’s manager Mick McCarthy prior to the 2002 World Cup. The film hits cinemas this Friday.

In a lighthearted turn, Sutton questioned an AI about who would be the perfect actor for a movie about him. Surprisingly, the response pointed to Hollywood star Tom Hardy, who, despite being shorter than Sutton, was deemed a good fit due to his knack for portraying complex, tough characters. Sutton humorously responded, saying, “That just shows how far off the mark AI can be.” He added, “But if it had to be someone, Hardy isn’t a bad choice, even if he isn’t my height. People might say I resemble the comic duo Laurel and Hardy more.”

For this season, Sutton is offering predictions for all 380 Premier League matches, competing against AI, BBC Sport readers, and various guests. Hardwicke, a supporter of Aston Villa, joins Sutton for predictions in week 23. Fans are encouraged to predict scores independently— the most common score for each matchup will be reflected in the scoreboards and tables.

Points system:

• Correct match result (win, draw, defeat): 10 points
• Exact score: 40 points

Premier League Predictions

Saturday, 24 January

West Ham vs. Sunderland

A 3-0 win for Sunderland in the season opener set expectations for both teams, but the match illustrates how unpredictable this season has been. Notably, West Ham’s recent comeback victory over Tottenham was impressive, but their poor home form still lingers. Conversely, Sunderland struggles on the road, having not secured an away win since late October.

Sutton’s gut feeling suggests a 1-1 draw, while Hardwicke, influenced by his affection for Sunderland, predicts a 1-2 outcome. The AI leans toward Sunderland as well, forecasting a 2-1 victory.

Burnley vs. Tottenham

Coverage for this match will be provided by Chris Sutton for BBC Radio 5 Live. With a backdrop of recent highs and lows, predicting this match remains notably challenging. Tottenham’s recent win against Borussia Dortmund isn’t enough to alleviate pressure on manager Thomas Frank. Burnley, despite their struggles, is in survival mode, setting the stage for a competitive encounter.

Sutton predicts a low-scoring draw of 0-0, Hardwicke believes Burnley can salvage a point at 1-1, while AI anticipates a close 1-2 match.

Fulham vs. Brighton

Similar table placements predict a close contest, with Fulham recently welcoming back key players. While Brighton consistently push for opportunities, Fulham’s past victory against them gives them the edge in Sutton’s view—he predicts a 2-1 win. Hardwicke supports Fulham with confidence and anticipates a 2-0 scoreline, whereas AI predicts a 1-1 draw.

Manchester City vs. Wolves

Struggling for form, Manchester City is fresh off a disappointing outing in the Champions League. However, newfound talent and determination may reignite their competitiveness against Wolves, who have their own winning streak in the league.

Sutton foresees a 3-1 victory, while Hardwicke optimistically forecasts a 4-0 triumph, and AI settles for a 3-0 prediction.

Liverpool vs. Bournemouth

Liverpool’s impressive form could falter against a seemingly unpredictable Bournemouth team. After much deliberation, Sutton leans toward Liverpool with a 1-2 finish. Hardwicke believes in a thrilling encounter, forecasting a draw at 2-2, while AI settles on a 1-3 prediction favoring Liverpool.

Sunday, 25 January

Brentford vs. Nottingham Forest

Brentford’s current form could be tested by Nottingham Forest’s tactical resilience. Hardwicke nods towards a solid home win, predicting a 2-0 result, while AI opts for a more cautious 1-1.

Crystal Palace vs. Chelsea

Crystal Palace appears to be unraveling amid managerial and player discontent; meanwhile, Chelsea faces their own struggles this season. Sutton predicts a narrow 0-1 victory for Chelsea, while Hardwicke foresees a more action-packed match ending 3-2.

Newcastle vs. Aston Villa

Despite their recent upset, Newcastle is favored in this matchup against Villa, who are battling injuries. Sutton believes Newcastle will edge it at 2-1. Hardwicke, passionately supporting Villa, sees them as capable of clinching a 2-3 victory. AI, leaning toward a draw, guesses a 2-2 outcome.

Monday, 26 January

Everton vs. Leeds

Inconsistent form for both teams makes this encounter tough to predict. Sutton predicts a 1-1 draw, while Hardwicke confidently favors Everton, predicting a solid 3-1 win.

How Did Sutton Fare Last Week?

Last week, Sutton correctly projected four results out of ten matches with no exact scores, earning a total of 40 points. He faced off against AI, which managed only two correct outcomes for a total of 20 points. WWE superstar Drew McIntyre matched Sutton’s four correct predictions but with one exact score, accumulating 70 points. However, the overall victor was the BBC readers, with three scores correctly picked and two exact scores resulting in a total of 90 points.