Liverpool top Christmas standings, favourites against Leicester
Liverpool enter Christmas at the top of the Premier League for the first time since the 2020/21 season, aiming to solidify their position with a win over struggling Leicester on Boxing Day. Jurgen Klopp’s side, four points clear of second-placed Chelsea, will be buoyed by Mohamed Salah’s exceptional form, with the Egyptian striker leading the charge after reaching double figures in both goals (15) and assists (11) before Christmas.
Leicester, in contrast, are battling to stay out of the relegation zone after recent poor form, and have not won at Anfield since 2000.
READ ALSO: Salah’s stunning strike takes Liverpool top with win over Brighton
Arsenal to Overcome Saka’s Injury in Title Chase
Arsenal’s Premier League title aspirations have taken a hit with the injury of star winger Bukayo Saka, who will be sidelined for several weeks due to a hamstring issue. Despite this, manager Mikel Arteta remains optimistic after Arsenal’s impressive 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace. Saka, who has been pivotal this season with 9 goals and 13 assists, will be sorely missed, but Arteta has confidence in his squad to adapt, with Gabriel Martinelli a likely candidate to fill in.
Manchester Clubs Seek Festive Boosts
Both Manchester clubs, amid a series of disappointing results, are hoping for a turn in fortune over the Christmas fixtures. Champions Manchester City, struggling for consistency, will host Everton, while Manchester United will face Wolves away. With both clubs currently underperforming, these matches are crucial for their confidence and hopes of securing a top-four finish.
Nottingham Forest’s European Dream
Nottingham Forest, sitting in fourth place, are aiming for a return to European competition for the first time in over four decades. The Midlands club, managed by Nuno Espirito Santo, have enjoyed a strong run of form, winning seven of their last ten matches. Forest will host a Tottenham side reeling from a heavy defeat against Liverpool, with Nuno prepared for a challenging encounter against his former club.
Boxing Day Fixtures:
Thursday:
Manchester City v Everton (12:30 GMT)
Bournemouth v Crystal Palace
Chelsea v Fulham
Newcastle v Aston Villa
Nottingham Forest v Tottenham
Southampton v West Ham
Wolves v Manchester United (17:30 GMT)
Liverpool v Leicester (20:00 GMT)
Friday:
Brighton v Brentford (19:30 GMT)
Arsenal v Ipswich (20:15 GMT)
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