EPL 2016/17: 5 key fixtures that will define the title race
The business end of the Premier League season is upon us, and there remains plenty to play for at the top of the table. It appeared as though Chelsea were running away with the crown under Antonio Conte’s stewardship, but a shock home defeat to Crystal Palace cut their lead at the summit to seven.
There remain 21 points to play for and thus there is sufficient time for the situation at the top to change if results go against the Blues. Here are five fixtures that will define the EPL title race, and could decide who has their hands on the trophy come May.
#5 Manchester United vs Chelsea (16/04/17)
This Sunday, Chelsea travel to Old Trafford to face former boss Jose Mourinho. United still have ambitions of their own, with the race to finish in the top four and qualify for the Champions League well and truly on.
Antonio Conte will be encouraged by the fact that Man United had a Europa League fixture to play just days before this contest, whereas his Chelsea side had a week to rest. He cannot take anything for granted, however, as the Red Devils are on an unbeaten run at the moment.
Man United’s last defeat in the Premier League came against Chelsea in the reverse fixture in October – that’s 21 games without tasting defeat. It is, without doubt, a commendable run, but the Reds have drawn ten of those, which is why they find themselves 18 points adrift the leaders.
Sunday’s game promises to be a thrilling encounter, and if Chelsea fail to get a result, it could provide Tottenham with an opportunity to close the gap.