Midweek TV Preview: 8 - 10 February 2010

Monday 8 February

19.45 Colchester United v Southend United, League One, Sky Sports 1/HD1
It's a hoary old chestnut that form counts for nothing in derbies but this Essex encounter finds the top teams at opposite end of the table. Colchester are nestled nicely in the play-off spots while the Shrimpers are struggling just two points above the drop zone. Southend are likely to give a debut to young Arsenal striker Sanchez Watt, who they have on a month's loan.

Tuesday 9 February

19.00 Carlisle United v Leeds United, Johnstone's Paint Trophy, Northern Final 2nd Leg (2-1), Sky Sports 3/HD3
Ooh look, two all United clashes in two days. With the closure of the transfer window and their exit from the FA Cup, Leeds can go back to concentrating on winning games. They've managed just one win in eight since their heroics at Old Trafford, though today's opponents haven't fared much better in that time. A late Joe Anyinsah goal in the first leg gives the advantage to Carlisle.

19.45 Manchester City v Bolton, Premier League, Sky Sports 2/HD2
While their defeat at Hull further highlighted City's struggles on the road it can't be forgotten that Owen Coyle has already taken a point with that amazing 3-3 here with Burnley. Expect much of the coverage to be taken up with lingering shots of Wayne Bridge on the bench.

Wednesday 10 February

19.45 Arsenal v Liverpool, Premier League, Sky Sports 2/HD2
Liverpool are fourth - Rafa has been good to his word got them there. Though what that says about the quality of the Premier League is moot. Arsenal come into this one hurting: embarrassed at home by United and then better but ultimately toothless against Chelsea. The weaker two of the Big Four, this fixture has produced some crackers over recent seasons: with desperation in both camps we could see another one here

19.45 Motherwell v Rangers, Scottish Premier League, ESPN/HD
Motherwell have put their truly awful December behind them and are unbeaten this year (though that will probably end here). That run of five defeats they had included a 6-1 mauling at the hands of today's opponents