With the majority of Premier League teams having played 19 of their 38 fixtures this season, it’s as good a time as any to take stock of the thrills we’ve enjoyed so far and eagerly look ahead to the excitement still to come. Despite the campaign having to pause for a month for the FIFA World Cup the intensity did not let up over the festive period, and it’s going to be a frenetic race through to May with teams needing to catch up on the missed games.
Although they’ve only played 18 games, the leaders at the halfway point are Arsenal, who are bidding to win their first title since 2004. The Gunners have enjoyed a fantastic season thus far, establishing an 8-point lead atop the table and losing just once in 18 games. Such a lofty position has been somewhat unfamiliar to Arsenal in recent years, so it will be fascinating to see if they can continue their charge throughout the second half of the campaign. They’ve got some big tests approaching in the coming weeks, with huge showdowns with Manchester United and closest rivals Manchester City on 22 January and 15 February, respectively.
Meanwhile, slightly further back in 3rd place, Newcastle United have provided one of the most entertaining stories of the season with their impressive bid to qualify for the UEFA Champions League. Like Arsenal, they too have lost just once in the Premier League this season, and they also boast the best defence having shipped just 11 goals. The Magpies last finished in the top 4 in 2003, so it would be an outstanding achievement if they’re able to hang on to their spot.
Newcastle aren’t the only ones who have been punching above their weight; not far behind them are newly-promoted Fulham, who have not only already effectively secured their top-flight status for another season but are also in contention for European qualification as they sit in 6th.
At the other end of the table, Premier League perennials Everton and West Ham United are among the clubs battling for survival, so it promises to be a thrilling relegation dogfight as they look to beat the drop alongside the likes of Southampton, Wolverhampton Wanders, and Bournemouth.
Tickets for many upcoming games are already on sale and will continue to go on sale for the remainder of the season. To find out more about tickets to all remaining Premier League fixtures, click here.