UPDATE Jan 2014 | Page 3

As we enter towards the closing stages of the Premier League, the race for top four is as close as it’s ever been, with 7 sides still fighting it out for a chance to play against Europe’s best next season.

Arsenal have led the league pretty much from start to finish which makes it hard to rule them out, however their lack of depth up top means that they rely heavily on the fitness of Giroud. Injuries to vital players could leave the Gunners in an extremely difficult position.

Man City have no doubt the largest strength in depth with quality players to spare in every position. City are also blessed with a spine of Hart, Kompany, Toure and one of the best strikers in the world, Aguero. This gives them goals from all around the pitch, whilst also providing them with a solid wall at the back, hence why they have the best scoring record and an impressive defensive one to go with it.

Chelsea also have an impressive depth to their squad but with a trio of misfiring strikers, they might not have quite enough to see them over the line. Also, while Mourinho’s defensive attitude might provide Chelsea with vital clean sheets, it doesn’t help with the lack of goals needed to win big games.

Finally, the battle for fourth seems to be between Spurs, Liverpool and Everton with Man Utd falling further away as the weeks progress. Liverpool have arguably the best striker in the world based on current form, and Everton are consistently winning games; only losing two all season. However Spurs look a new team under Tim Sherwood, who could be the man to finally give them their second taste of the Champions League.

SPORTS SPECIAL 3

SEVEN TEAMS SCRAP IT OUT FOR THE GRAND STAGE OF EUROPE

WRITTEN BY SEB JENKINS