EPL Preview: Sunderland vs. Liverpool and Chelsea vs. Man City

Sunderland vs Liverpool

The away match against Sunderland represents the best opportunity for Liverpool to close the gap on Tottenham, given that Sunderland have been extremely poor in the last few weeks. Even though Sunderland did draw against Arsenal last weekend, their run of four straight defeats in their last five matches doesn't give a good reading for anyone.

It is a run that has totally halted their form at the Stadium of Light, which has been the main source of points for their push for the Europa League qualification places. Even though they have been struggling of late, they still remain with the chance to qualify for Europe, given that Liverpool are just four points ahead of them in the table.

It has been a mixed few weeks for Kenny Dalglish, who has had the joy of winning over Man Utd one week and exiting the Europa League in other. They have lost their last two away games and it has been their primary problem since the start of the season. However, Sunderland's form will certainly give them hope. Steven Gerrard and Fabio Aurelio will be the main absentees for Liverpool, while Steve Bruce will be still without Lee Cattermole.

Chelsea vs Man City

Chelsea will be entertaining Man City in the match that is arguably the biggest of the weekend, as it is set to decide the favourites for the third position. Chelsea could overtake Man City with a victory and this should make the Londoners the clear favourites for the automatic Champions League qualification spot.

However, should Man City even get a draw at Stamford Bridge, they will be the punters choice for nabbing it. Mancini will be definitely adopting a defensive strategy against Chelsea, which will make the tie extremely one-sided in the early stages.

City has recently dumped out of the Europa league by Dynamo Kiev. This leaves City with just the FA Cup and the league to play for. Given that they do not have any chance for the league title, they will be looking to at least maintain their current league position, which is under threat from Chelsea.

Chelsea progressed into the Champions League, even though they could only draw against Copenhagen. Fernando Torres was rested for the match, but he is expected to start against City. On the injury front, City will be missing the likes of Adam Johnson and James Milner. Chelsea do not have any injuries of substance to worry about.

Joe - livescoredaily.com - live scores