Who Will Win the Race to Finish in Top Four?
Manchester City’s dominant 4-1 victory at Liverpool on Sunday extended their winning streak in the Premier League to 10 games.In the process, Pep Guardiola’s side have moved five points ahead of Manchester United and still with a game in hand. Defending champions Liverpool are some 10 points adrift of the Citizens now.Whilst Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and maybe even Jurgen Klopp won’t admit to the title race getting out of sight, the rest of the field are really battling for a top four finish and Champions League football next season.There are currently only 10 points between second and ninth, with Aston Villa the team in ninth having two games in hand on several of the teams above them. Here’s a look at who may be joining Manchester City in the Champions League next season:
Manchester United (2nd – 45pts)
The Red Devils have surprised many this season by topping the Premier League as late as last month and briefly throwing their name into the title race.United are heading into the final 15 games of the season with a six-point lead over Chelsea down in fifth. Only Sheffield United of all teams, have beaten Solskjaer’s side 17 Premier League games. Provided they can pick up three points against the teams they are expected to beat then a top four finish is very much on the cards.
Leicester City (3rd – 43pts)
Goals haven’t been a problem for Brendan Rodgers’ side all season whilst their defensive record has improved in recent weeks. Aside from a surprise loss at home to Leeds United to end January, Leicester City have been very consistent in recent months.With Jamie Vardy, Harvey Barnes and James Maddison scoring goals in attack the Foxes are in good shape to qualify for next season’s Champions League. Leicester host Liverpool this weekend in what will be one of the most popular games to watch on Premier League live streaming sites.
Liverpool (4th – 40pts)
One can forgive Liverpool’s weak Premier League title defence with the injuries that have struck their defence this season. In recent weeks, midfielders Fabinho and Jordan Henderson have been partnering in central defence.Klopp’s side have dropped out of title contention during that time with a failure to stick the ball in the back of the net. With Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino up front it’s only a matter of time before they get back to scoring ways and a comfortable top four finish. Anyone who isn’t so confident can get attractive odds on Liverpool finishing outside of the top four, which can be backed with a Mansion Bet bonus code.
Chelsea (5th – 39pts)
Thomas Tuchel is trying to make the best out of what Frank Lampard left behind as the German coach tries to get Chelsea back into the top four. Currently just one point behind Liverpool and with a squad that cost a few bucks to put together, they shouldn’t be ruled out.But until or unless Timo Werner starts scoring then the Blues could struggle. Tammy Abraham top scores with six, followed by Jorginho on five.
West Ham United (6th – 39pts)
One of the biggest surprises of the season so far has been David Moyes’ West Ham United hanging around the Champions League places.A win at Leicester City has certainly been the Hammers’ most impressive result but they have also been very consistent against sides in the bottom half. Ultimately though, a Europa League place may be their best hope.
Everton (7th – 37pts)
12 points from their opening four games saw Everton top the Premier League at the start of October. It’s not all been rosy for Carlo Ancelotti’s side since, but we’re in February and the Toffees are only three points outside of the Champions League places.More results like the victories over Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Arsenal will give them a chance of finishing in the top four.
Tottenham Hotspur (8th – 36pts)
Jose Mourinho’s side looked like title contenders before Christmas, but a four-game winless streak followed by three consecutive defeats have Tottenham Hotspur on the outside looking in on the Champions League places now.With Harry Kane fit again anything is possible for Spurs, who have put six past Manchester United and five past Southampton this season.
Aston Villa (9th – 35pts)
With their two games in hand Aston Villa would be in the top four already by winning them. Difficult thing is that those games are against Tottenham and Everton.Dean Smith’s side have done extremely well so far this season, considering they narrowly avoided relegation last season. A top four finish is unrealistic but placing among the top 10 would be excellent for the club.
