The Barclays Premier League (BPL) reaches round of 32 this weekend, with eight more games to go. While teams like Manchester United (77 points,) Manchester City (62 Points,) Tottenham (57 Points,) Chelsea (55 Points,) and Arsenal (53 Points,) occupy the top of the table; the title race could be decided in a few week’s time. Among the various spots which stand to be thoroughly contested are the battle for a top four finish, and the relegation battle.
With Manchester City the most likely favourite to finish second behind Manchester United, the boys from the blue half of Manchester will have to display similar character and commitment that saw them go on to lift the BPL last season. Also with an FA Cup semi final clash against Chelsea, they are one match away from a second FA Cup final appearance in three seasons.
Tottenham Hotspur look set for an automatic qualification, haven played a match more than every other team in the top five spot. With injury worries to key players, Andre Villas Boas may have to reshuffle his squad week in week out if they are to achieve that fit. Also a game against Chelsea and Manchester City means the battle is far from over.
Chelsea, under Raphael Benitez has struggled for consistency, but their recent run of form remains a threat to the other teams in this battle. With a game against Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur the battle for a top four finish may be heading into the final day of the season.
The other team in line is Arsenal FC. Fifth place, just two points behind fourth, and with a game against United and Sixth- placed Everton could as well become a strong competition for the other teams.
The last of the relegation battle may not have been heard until the last day of the season. Southampton (34 Points) currently sits 12TH position in the league table and with just 11 points shy of Reading (23 Points) the last team on the table, every team in the mix may be sharing the same faith. Notable fixtures among the relegation threatened teams are Wigan Athletic (30 Points) visit to Loftus Road, where they take on QPR (23 Points). Sunderland (31Points) travel to Stamford Bridge and Newcastle (33 Points) hosts Fulham at Saint James Park.
