Who will win the title?

Monday, 19/12/2011

Quite fitting as we get ready for Christmas that 12 points separate the Barclays Premier League leaders from the team in sixth.

So as we count down the days to the New Year who will be crowned champions? The rapid fire group of fixtures that take us out of 2011 and into 2012 could play a major role.

Man City are obviously favourites. Two points clear of Man United and with enough players in their squad to turn out two top-class sides.

Yes, they will lose the Toure brothers in January to the Africa Cup of Nations, but they have enough strength in depth to cover that loss.

Yes, they have lost Carlos Tevez. Anyone notice he had gone?

So their major problems could come with a frigtening loss of form or a whole rash of injuries. Or Mario Balotelli getting lost on his way to a match.

And it's injuries that could cause serious problems for neighbours United – but, as usual, Fergie's side are still up there (remember this is them having a bad season!) and Wayne Rooney appears to have returned to form.

Everyone know Fergie's teams always come good after Christmas. And despite the manager saying he won't panic buy don't be surprised if he adds a very clever addition to his squad – remember the likes of Cantona and Sheringham in the past?

Tottenham are seven points adrift of the leaders but with a game in-hand and play hosts to Chelsea this week. How crucial is that game?

Harry Redknapp's side had a tough start to the season but are now the team to watch. If he can keep his squad together through January this dark horse could be galloping along White Hart Lane.

And that brings us nicely to Chelsea in fourth, nine points behind Man City. One minute the Blues are finished, the next they are roaring. A draw at Wigan wasn't convincing at the weekend and they need to hold on to Didier Drogba to steady their ship.

Boss Andre Villas-Boas has the nice distraction of the Champions League – which has probably kept him in the job – but he must also not get too distracted by Frank Lampard. His veteran midfielder makes this side tick.

Then it's Arsenal, 12 points behind the leaders and in fifth. No chance? Don't bet against them! Arsene Wenger certainly won't give up until the last refereeing decision goes against him or, even worse, Robin van Persie gets injured.

Remember, at the start of this campaign there were calls for the Frenchman's head after they'd had one of their worst-ever starts to the season. Can you explain how they shot up the table so convincingly?

Liverpool are in sixth on the same number of points as the Gunners but they really are outsiders unless they can get a few snookers... and Andy Carroll can get a few goals.

*Over to you...who do you fancy to lift that Premier League trophy?

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