Today’s three matches, on paper, present very different tasters of Premier League football. The day begins early with the lunchtime kick-off as the two basement clubs, seemingly doomed to relegation, do battle at the Madjeski. It’s uncertain just how much quality we’ll get from Reading’s clash with QPR, or which shade of purple Harry Redknapp will be by the end of it. Drama should be guaranteed, however.
Chelsea’s encounter with Swansea looks to have the quality to provide a suitable antidote but also has the potential to be a tepid affair. Chelsea may be feeling heavy legs after midweek European exploits and, if the Swans play keep-ball, we might struggle for fireworks. Owners of Michu, Juan Mata and Eden Hazard will be hoping for a goals and entertainment – it remains to be seen if either side will deliver.
The day reaches a suitable conclusion at the Emirates. The Gunners will be showing newly crowned champions, United, a guard of honour but that’s likely to be the only ground conceded. Arsenal will look to capitilise on Tottenham’s dropped points at the DW Stadium in their quest for a top four finish. Robin Van Persie returns to face the Gunners faithful and nobody is really sure what to expect from the Dutchman or, indeed, from Sir Alex Ferguson’s teamsheet.
Our Dugout Discussion is now open and available throughout the day to those who fancy dabbling in some real-time chatter.
The team news from the Madjeski finds Reading unchanged from the starting XI that lost out at Norwich. In contrast, Harry Redknapp rings the changes for QPR, with Nedum Onuoha and Armand Traore returning to the back four, while Jermaine Jenas and Esteban Granero are brought into the midfield. Jay Bothroyd is also given a start up front. Chris Samba, Tal Ben-Haim, Shuan Derry, Junior Hoilett and the injured Andros Townsend are those to miss out.
