The league is beginning to fall into its pattern. There are still some clubs that are probably higher than they will end up and visa-versa. The next few weeks will really put sides into the relevant league quadrant where they will compete for the rest of the season (Top 4, Europa League Chasers, Mid-Table and Relegation). This weekend, the below three clubs need a win to ensure they don’t slide into a position that might be hard to battle back from.
Everton (Home) vs Aston Villa
Everton are now 17th in the league. Their last 6 fixtures have yielded just 5 points. They conceded 15 goals in those games. Granted they have had to play Arsenal, Chelsea, Man United and Liverpool in the last 6 weeks but they have to reverse the decline and do it quickly. They invested heavily during the summer on Romelu Lukaku and a sparkling new contract for Ross Barkley. Lukaku has yet to ignite and Barkley is yet to appear through injury, but even with the remaining quality they should be higher in the league. Roberto Martinez must be concerned that his previously resolute defense now looks to be aging in front of our eyes. They are teetering above the relegation zone and need to start climbing away from that fight. Aston Villa are no push overs though. Paul Lambert’s men have already played the role of bad guests on Merseyside, beating Liverpool at Anfield, and would be more than happy to star in a sequel at Goodison.
Manchester United (Away) vs West Brom
It is the first time United have been in the top 4 in over a year, and they will have to continue their momentum to stay there. They can ill afford any slip ups after a shaky start in August and September. Away to West Brom used to be a “will-win” game, now it is a “must-win”. After West Brom they have Chelsea at home and Man City at the Etihad. They need to solidify their top 4 position with 3 points before these games. Reports are that Louis Van Gaal’s injury list is clearing which could strengthen his back four. West Brom have at times looked dangerous this season. They pushed Liverpool at Anfield in the last round of fixtures. They also have one of the in-form strikers in the league in Berahino. If United drop points at the Hawthorns, even more pressure will be on the Chelsea and City games.
Newcastle United (Home) vs Burnley
18th vs 19th. Alan Pardew seems to be hanging on by his coattails right now. Newcastle’s performances have been, at times, desperate. The re-appearance of Cissé’s scoring boots last time out kept them the right side of the cliff, but they are still wobbling. If they lose this game, their opponents will leap-frog them and leave them in the relegation zone. Burnley have struggled to score goals on their return to the Premier League, but Newcastle’s defending would give any forward line confidence. Newcastle’s fans have turned on their manager and if things start to go wrong in St James’, the home fans will be piling even more pressure on the team. Even a draw against Burnley, who most have on their relegation list, might not be enough to save Pardew.
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