Premier League wobbles leave fourth spot chase wide open

LONDON: Chelsea remain in pole position to claim fourth spot in the Premier League and a return to the riches and prestige of the Champions League next season.

However, a slump in form from Frank Lampard’s men has left the door open for Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal to secure a much-needed return to Europe’s top competition, while Wolves and Sheffield United also closing in. AFP Sport looks at all six sides’ ambitions heading into the final 15 league games of the season.

Chelsea

The Blues still have a five-point cushion, but should already be out of sight for the chasing pack. Arsenal at home on Tuesday is followed by Leicester, Tottenham and Manchester United, giving them the chance to finally pull clear, but it could also hand those behind them another lifeline.

Manchester United

United’s challenge for the top four will depend largely on what business they do before the end of the January transfer window.

Top scorer Marcus Rashford will be out for at least six weeks due to a stress fracture in his back, while long-term injuries to Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay have already left the Red Devils light in midfield.

Wolves

Wolves’ stunning fightback from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at in-form Southampton on Saturday reignited their Champions League challenge, which had stalled in recent weeks. Nuno Espirito Santo’s men face Liverpool in their 40th game of the season on Thursday and a short squad could well run out of steam, particularly as they return to Europa League action next month.

Sheffield United

Most Blades fans would have settled for survival in their first top flight season for 13 years, but United manager Chris Wilder demands much more of his players. “If you can improve watching other games and other teams and other managers, then this is the one,” said the City boss.

Tottenham

Spurs are almost back to where they started under Jose Mourinho as early optimism and an upturn in results has fallen away in recent weeks. The loss of Harry Kane for potentially the rest of the season is being felt in a lack of goals, with Mourinho’s men taking just two points from their last four matches.

Arsenal

The Gunners’ performances have improved since Mikel Arteta took charge last month, but they have won just one of five league games under Arteta. Other than Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, a lack of clinical finishing at one end has been compounded by consistent errors from an unsettled defence.