Tim Sherwood at least cleared one thing up on Monday night: “It’s not a gilet ... it’s a coat.”

Apparently, the gilets were “sold out”. Boom, boom! How we laughed.

The joke was, however, said with a hint of venom — enough to stop the interviewer pointing out that the “coat” in question was actually missing sleeves.

Still, it provided some light relief, of sorts, before Tim reverted back to his life-or-death-style angst. “If anyone is hurting more than me ...” he pleaded.

That, people, is passion. Emotion. Imagine what he’d have done if his team had lost. I fear for Tim, I really do.

As much as Sherwood puts himself through the wringer each match day, the sight of Louis van Gaal strolling confidently from his dugout with clipboard in hand has become familiar.

On the surface at least, the Dutchman seems to be able to treat the imposters of triumph and disaster the same, although apparently he was so pleased with the Aston Villa performance he kissed one of his players on the head in the dressing room.

Even for the seasoned Van Gaal, he is looking more assured as his team start to play the way he clearly wants.

He has a derby to deal with this weekend, while Sherwood and his “coat” head back to his old club.

Tomorrow’s games

Kick-offs 11am

unless stated

Swansea City v Everton

8.45am

It’s been a fine first full season in charge for Gary Monk and his Swansea side, with Bafétimbi Gomis now finding the net, have coped well with the departure of Wilfried Bony.

Everton, rather under the radar, have won their past three matches but the Welsh club will be a test for Roberto Martínez and his men.

Prediction: 1-1

Southampton v Hull City

Hull manager Steve Bruce is not, it’s fair to say, the athlete he once was but to publish shirtless pictures of the man on holiday was harsh.

Not breakfast viewing, for sure, although he’ll hope his team can match his own appetite as they enter the do-or-die period of the season. Sadly, they could be eaten alive.

Prediction: 2-0

Sunderland v Crystal Palace

Palace are on fire right now and deservedly beat Manchester City last time out. While Sunderland beat a dismal Newcastle thanks to a Jermain Defoe wonder strike, that shouldn’t mask a poor game.

Alan Pardew to continue his personal revival with an away win to make it four on the trot.

Prediction: 1-2

Spurs v Aston Villa

The return of Sherwood to Spurs should at least liven the home side up after the listless stalemate at Burnley. Villa have it all to play for and will attack, which could play right into Tottenham’s hands.

Prediction: 3-1

WBA v Leicester

One suspects Tony Pulis will not stand for a repeat of the 4-1 defeat to QPR last time out — and that’s bad news for Leicester, who continue to desperately need points.

Prediction: 2-1

West Ham v Stoke City

A game that could dictate both sides’ season as they both put everything on the line ... nah, of course not. Both teams safe, nothing to really play for. Stoke’s form should give them the edge as the Hammers’ campaign continues to peter out.

Prediction: 0-1

Burnley v Arsenal

1.30pm

The Gunners have won seven league games in succession as they try to put some late pressure on Chelsea. Too little, too late most likely but Burnley will find few favours here.

Prediction: 1-3

Sunday’s games

QPR v Chelsea

9.30am

QPR’s home recent has not been good — five straight defeats — while Chelsea are picking up wins away.

No-one can really say José Mourinho’s side look fluent but their trademark steel has been evident since their Champions League exit and this is a golden chance to move one step nearer securing the title.

Prediction: 0-2

Manchester United

v Manchester City

12pm

Derby day in Manchester and the smart money has to be on the red half going home happiest. Five straight league wins, Wayne Rooney back in his most effective position and all the components seemingly clicking into gear.

The City team, on the other hand, have a whiff of having reached the end of something. A summer clear-out is expected.

Prediction: 2-1

Monday’s game

Liverpool v Newcastle

4pm

The FA Cup quarter-final win has prolonged the Merseysiders’ season and will put an extra spring in Brendan Rodgers’s perennially bouncy step.

Newcastle are a ghost of club right now. The soul of St James’ apparently sacrificed for balance-sheet satisfaction.

Prediction: 3-0