Gallagher Premiership round 11 preview

So after two weeks off for Europe, we're back to Premiership action.

I'm not a fan of this round as there's a glut of England players not available to play. I think they need to reconsider this. But the one thing it does mean is unpredictability!

Harlequins v Northampton

Friday night starts off at The Stoop with both teams missing players including an entire backline for Saints.

Tom Seabrook will be looking to continue on from his hat trick in Europe. James Chisholm has been impressive for Quins and will look to continue to utilise his power game.

Phil's prediction:

I fancy Quins to edge this at home but Northampton won't make it easy.

Gloucester v Leicester

Saturday afternoon kicks off at Kingsholm, where Michael Cheika and his team arrive looking to right some wrongs after being put to the sword by the galacticos of Toulouse.

This is a big game for both teams, Gloucester are less affected by England call ups but Cheika will have a plan. Max Llewellyn will be looking to prove Warren Gatland wrong and put in a performance after missing out on the Welsh squad. Cam Henderson has looked promising for Leicester after a long injury lay off.

Phil's prediction:

I think Gloucester will continue their good home form but it'll be the usual rollercoaster ride at Kingsholm.

Exeter v Saracens

Exeter will fancy their chances of turning over a depleted Saracens at Sandy Park on Saturday evening. I expect the all action Dan Frost to lead from the front and take the game to Saracens. In turn Gonzalez will be key in the back row battle but also a lot hinges on Van Zyl controlling the game at scrum half.

Phil's prediction:

I think a depleted Saracens will struggle and Exeter will take a bonus point win here.

Bristol v Newcastle

It's been another tough week for Newcastle with the loss of Adam Radwan a blow in a drive to try and keep hold of home grown talent.

I fully expect Bristol to cut loose at Ashton Gate. Bristol will look to Harding and Luatua to lead the team and give the platform for the backs to cut loose.

For Falcons they'll look to Chick at eight to provide a calm head and lead a team that doesn't enjoy traveling.

Phil's prediction:

Given their last Premiership away game at Northampton I can't see Falcons getting anything from this. Bristol to win comprehensively.

Sale v Bath

Sale had a really good win over Toulon last weekend and Bath deserved something from their visit to take on Leinster in Dublin.

Again, both teams will miss some key players but Russell will control the game at ten with Spencer inside him. Sale are playing some nice rugby but will miss George Ford.

Phil's prediction:

I fancy Bath to take this, but it's never easy up at Sale.