Matchweek 36 of the Premier League will be a big one for both Liverpool clubs, who are on opposite ends of the table.
At the top, there’s Liverpool hosting top four-chasing Tottenham in what is likely the Reds’ last big test left in the league. Meanwhile, Everton will travel to Leicester to face the Foxes for the second time in the space of a couple of weeks as they continue their quest to avoid relegation.
This weekend is also a crucial one for the other clubs involved in the relegation battle, Burnley and Leeds, while all-but relegated Watford boss Roy Hodgson looks set for an emotional reunion at Selhurst Park.
So read on below as SBOTOP lists down five things to look out for in Matchweek 36 of the Premier League season.
Liverpool’s last big league test
Liverpool’s quadruple bid is still alive, although they were given a bit of a scare by Villarreal. The Reds eventually righted the ship in the second half to cruise into the Champions League final.
Liverpool will now look to avoid another scare when they take on Tottenham in what is likely to be their toughest remaining test in the Premier League.
Spurs held Liverpool to a 2-2 draw in London in their first meeting of the season and need a win to keep pace with Arsenal in the race for fourth, so this will not be an easy game by any means.
Although, Liverpool haven’t lost to Spurs at Anfield in over a decade, and with the likes of Luis Diaz capable of changing the game, they should be confident in their ability to keep that run going despite their midweek struggles.
Everton desperately need rare away points
Everton kept their survival hopes in their own hands after a stunning 1-0 win over Chelsea. They are still inside the relegation zone at 18th place, but they are just two points behind both Burnley and Leeds and have a game in hand.
It was the second brave defensive effort in a row from Frank Lampard’s side, while Richarlison popped up with another crucial goal.
The Brazilian has had a fairly disappointing season, but he has found his best form at the right time with four goals in his last five games, one of which was a stoppage-time equaliser to deny Leicester a win at Goodison Park a few weeks ago.
Richarlison has a fine scoring record against the Foxes – five goals in 10 games – and he will once again be key to Everton’s chances of claiming a crucial point away from home. The Toffees have picked up a single point in their last 12 Premier League games (one draw, 11 defeats).
A matchup with major stakes at the Emirates
Arsenal’s clash with Leeds is the second most consequential game of the weekend, as both clubs still have so much to play for.
The Gunners, who have won three in a row, are keen to keep Spurs at bay in the battle for fourth. Meanwhile, the Whites are fighting for the Premier League lives as they sit just one spot above the relegation zone.
Jesse Marsch’s men lost 4-0 at home against leaders Man City last time out, but their Premier League 2022 results prior to that loss were quite impressive (three wins, two draws), so Arsenal must beware.
Although, Leeds will be without Stuart Dallas, who sadly suffered a broken leg in the loss to City. His absence will be a blow to Leeds, who have endured more than their fair share of injuries this season.
Burnley’s big chance in Claret derby
Burnley are close to riding their new manager bounce all the way to survival. After looking dead and buried a month ago, the Clarets have gone unbeaten since Mike Jackson took over for the sacked Sean Dyche and have improbably reeled off three straight wins.
Their dramatic come-from-behind win over Watford last week was absolutely massive as it took them up to 16th place, two points above the drop zone.
The Clarets have a great chance to continue their amazing run as they take on Aston Villa, whose form has tailed off at the tail-end of the season.
Incredibly, this will be the first meeting between the two claret clubs; they will meet again a couple of weeks later. But the Premier League 2022 betting odds will fancy Burnley at home, where they have won each of their last three games.
Roy returns to Selhurst Park as Watford relegation nears
Roy Hodgson has not had a successful return to the Premier League as his Watford side have won just twice in his 14 games in charge. And his Hornets could very well be officially relegated this weekend as they take on his old club, Crystal Palace.
But whatever happens, Roy will at least get a nice ovation as he returns to Selhurst Park for the first time since leaving at the end of last season. The Eagles are flying high under Patrick Vieira, but the supporters will no doubt show their appreciation to Hodgson for his four years of service to the club.
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