A thrilling Premiership relegation fight intensifies this week

March 30, 2023 0

A total of four points difference stands between Southampton, who are at the bottom of the league table and Crystal Palace, who are in 12th place in the Premiership standings. This weekend might be crucial in what is shaping up to be one of the most remarkable Premier League relegation fights in recent times.

When they visit Leicester, who have fallen to 17th place and are only one point above the relegation zone as a result of a terrible run of results, Crystal Palace will be hoping that the return of their former manager Roy Hodgson can spur them to their first victory of 2023.

Under Julen Lopetegui, Wolves, who are in 13th position and are behind Palace on goal differential, saw a post-World Cup upswing. However, they have since suffered back-to-back losses, and another one on the road against Nottingham Forest would see them overtake their rivals in the standings.

Wins for both north London teams would be a welcome lift for the other seven teams trying to escape or move away from the bottom three with Leeds travelling to league leaders Arsenal on Saturday and Everton facing top-four contenders Tottenham on Monday Night Football.

The 1-0 victory over Liverpool in Bournemouth’s previous home game will be looked to for inspiration. Before the visit from ninth-placed Fulham to the Vitality Stadium, the Cherries are in 19th place but are only one point below Leicester.

West Ham, who are in 18th position, and Southampton, who are in last place, are battling it out at the London Stadium on Super Sunday for the remaining two relegation slots.

Who will develop the self-assurance and momentum necessary to survive as the season nears its conclusion? A victory this weekend may start any of the nine clubs’ journey towards retaining their Premier League status.