Premier League picks, odds: Brentford vs. Manchester City

The Premier League is on hiatus until Boxing Day (Dec. 26) so that players can compete for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Brentford plays Manchester City.

Brentford are currently in the mid-table with 16 points and a -3 goal differential. They have the smallest payroll in English first division. Under Thomas Frank, they play a relentless style of soccer. They are one of 10 teams with a positive expected goal difference in Premier League. The Bees have beaten Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United in their first season and half in this league.

Manchester City are playing without nine of their regular starters because of the World Cup. Brentford is a team that is good at creating big chances and scoring off of set pieces. They are a betting underdog at this price. The team is missing some key players.