Let’s be honest, International Breaks are annoying. Most Football fans in Britain have more of an affinity with their clubs than the football team of their country. Thankfully, this recent International Break is over and we can now return to our normal schedule of football in the Premier League. Yet, in a couple of months, this season of football will be over and we are entering a very exciting period.
Certainly, there is still a lot to play for, especially for the Top 4 places in the Premier League and, consequently, a place in the Champions League next season.
While Chelsea are coasting towards the Premier League title, 2nd, 3rd and 4th place in the Premier League are still up for grabs for those teams who want it most. Let’s take a look at the teams in contention for a Top 4 place and their chances to succeed in achieving this feat.
Tottenham
Mauricio Pochettino has built Spurs into a proper team and they are on course to finish above Arsenal and end the annual Arsenal celebration of St. Totteringham’s Day. While the injury to Harry Kane could be a hindrance, it feels like Spurs will not have the same collapse as they did at the end of last season and with upcoming games against Burnley, Swansea and Watford, Spurs have a pretty good run-in and seem to be certainties to finish in the Top 4.
Manchester City
While Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City have had an inconsistent, and perhaps disappointing season, they still have a good chance to finish strong and cement their place in the Top 4. However, their next couple of games are against Arsenal and Chelsea and, if they lose against these teams, then their Top 4 chances are under threat.
On the other side, victories against these teams will all but guarantee Champions League football for Guardiola’s side.
Liverpool
Like Manchester City, Liverpool have also been inconsistent with their defensive frailties costing them in a number of games this season. Yet, after the Merseyside derby against Everton this weekend, they have a relatively easy run-in compared to some of their rivals for the Top 4 and, if they can keep a few clean sheets, then have a great chance to make the Top 4 after some disappointing seasons.
Manchester United
Manchester United would be nowhere near the Top 4 without the heroics of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and I fear that their commitment to the Europa League, the recent injuries to Chris Smalling and Phil Jones along with tough upcoming games against Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham could curtail their chances to break into the Top 4, despite their games in hand over some of their rivals.
Arsenal
Arsenal’s consistency in being in the Top 4 every season under Arsene Wenger is under a lot of threat after a poor run of results which has led to increased pressure and speculation over Wenger’s position as manager. Their game against Manchester City this weekend is a pivotal clash and, from this point on, Arsenal needs to regain some consistency if they are to have any chance of making the Top 4 as their run-in is not exactly straight-forward, especially with their commitment to the FA Cup.
