The current Premier League season is an interesting one, to say the least. There’s been plenty of surprises thus far, especially regarding the top four.
In seasons past, the top four has been mostly been occupied by the same teams year in year out. The likes of Tottenham and Chelsea have been consistent qualifiers. Although the current table reveals that they’re far from being qualified.
Despite being in fourth place, Chelsea appear to be struggling. Their latest defeat came to Manchester United at Stamford Bridge (0-2). They have severe injury problems to key starting players, and their current football is lacklustre.
A team that are performing to a higher standard this season, would have to be Leicester City. Brendan Rodgers has installed a brilliant philosophy and all players are on board. The club is also run superbly, especially in the recruitment department. The squad is filled with young talent, which is thriving in the Premier League.
Another huge shock this season would have to be Sheffield United. The blades are having a sensational season, after just being promoted from the Championship last season.
Local boy Chris Wilder has surely got to be on the list for the manager of the year. A number of players played in the lower leagues under Wilder and they have thrived in the Premier League. Despite the system being unusual, it is extremely effective. The blades currently sit in sixth place and are only two points away from fourth-placed Chelsea.
Moving onto Manchester United. The biggest team in England, if not the world, is once again having a torrid season. The club has been in turmoil ever since the retirement of the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson. Current manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has struggled to install any style of play, which has caused many calls for him to be sacked.
Another huge English club that seems to be struggling would be Tottenham. After reaching last year’s Champions League final it has mostly been downhill from there. Not only has the managerial side been changed but a lot of players have been moved on.
The team had seemed to reach its peak under Mauricio Pochettino and that ultimately lead to the Argentinian being sacked. Some key players also reached their peak and moved on to challenge for consistent trophies.
The qualification for the Champions League could go to the final day. Also, Manchester City’s ban from European competitions could allow a fifth place to qualify. If this were the case, the remainder of the season will be extremely entertaining.