A relegation six-pointer at St Andrews sees Birmingham City with 26 points take on Newcastle United who are slightly better off with 28.

Saturday’s evening fixture sees Arsenal face a Middlesbrough team still smarting from last weekend’s FA Cup exit by Cardiff City.

Manchester United could overtake Arsenal at the top of the table, albeit briefly, if they win at rock-bottom Derby County on Saturday afternoon.

Reading, who climbed out of the bottom three last weekend, face in-form Liverpool who have won their last six in all competitions.

Chelsea will be confident of closing the gap on second placed Manchester United while adding to Sunderland’s relegation problems at the Stadium of Light.

Chelsea could close the gap on both Manchester United and Arsenal if they beat rock bottom Derby County at Stamford Bridge.

Arsenal could go four points clear at the top of the Premiership if they win at Wigan Athletic on Sunday.

Liverpool could improve their chances of a fourth placed finish if they can win a fourth successive Premiership match against beleaguered Newcastle United.

Liverpool have the chance to leap frog fourth placed Everton if they can beat West Ham United at Anfield on Wednesday night.

Everton will attempt to maintain their position in fourth place against fellow Champions League spot chasers Portsmouth.