The Premier League Title Race

Manchester United's draw at Blackburn yesterday has seen their ambition of winning the fourth consecutive titles fading away. Even if they win all the remaining fixtures, they still need a blip or two from Chelsea, who is a point ahead of United at the top of the league.

Not many people would have predicted such a title race before the season began. I certainly did not foresee a three-horse at this stage of the season. Following the Champions League exit at the hand of holder Barcelona, Arsenal must pick themselves up quickly and concentrate on the next league game - North London derby!

Well, let me make a prediction on the title run-in!

League table as at 12 April 2010

1. Chelsea -----------------------74 pts
   
2. Manchester United------------73 pts
   
3. Arsenal -----------------------71 pts

Predictions:

CHELSEA

12 Apr Bolton (h) --------- W

17 Apr Tottenham (a) -----W

25 Apr Stoke (h) ---------- W

1 May Liverpool (a) ------- D

9 May Wigan (h) -----------W

Having secured a place in FA Cup final, I just cannot see Chelsea drop points in these fixtures, except the away game against Liverpool. (13 points)

MAN UTD

17 Apr Man City (a)------- L

25 Apr Tottenham (h)----- W

1 May Sunderland (a) ------ W

9 May Stoke (h) ------------ W

The visit to derby game at City of Manchester Stadium is tough. (9 points)

ARSENAL

14 Apr Tottenham (a) ----- W

18 Apr Wigan (a) ---------- W

24 Apr Man City (h) ------- D

1 May Blackburn (a) ------- D

9 May Fulham (h) ----------W

The games against Manchester City and Blackburn are difficult to predict. But I think they will avoid defeat as they will really fight for the title after so many disappointing seasons. I also think Tottenham may not be able to recover from the shock FA Cup exit to face their local rival. (11 points)

Predicted Final League Table

1. Chelsea -----------------87 pts
   
2. Arsenal ------------------82 pts
   
3. Manchester United ------81 pts

What do you think? See Alan Hansen's view here.