Here’s how Pies sees the Premiership relegation battle panning out. Charlton fans, look away now…
CHARLTON ATHLETIC:
Currently in 19th place on 33 points with a -24 goal difference.
Remaining fixtures: Tottenham (h), Liverpool (a)
The Addicks are screwed. Spurs and Liverpool is one tough run-in. I can only see them getting three points at most from those two games (a home win against Spurs is entirely possible), which still won’t be enough to stay up.
Prediction: 34 points, relegated in 19th place
WEST HAM:
Currently in 18th place on 35 points with a -27 goal difference
Remaining fixtures: Bolton (h), Man Utd (a)
I can see West Ham beating Bolton and even getting something at Old Trafford – but only if the title has been decided by then. Alan Curbishley will be desperate for Man U to wrap up the league by the time they go up there – then the Hammers have a real shot at survival.
Prediction: 38 points, survive in 17th place
WIGAN:
Currently in 17th place on 35 points with a -22 goal difference
Remaining fixtures: Middlesbrough (h), Sheffield Utd (a)
Wigan’s goal difference gives them a distinct advantage over West Ham, plus they should be able to make it to 38 points, probably with a win against Boro at the JJB. They are in lousy form though, but not as lousy as our next contenders…
Prediction: 38 points, survive in 16th place
FULHAM:
Currently in 16th place on 36 points with a -21 goal difference
Remaining fixtures: Liverpool (h), Middlesbrough (a)
Fulham have forgotten how to win and at the worst time. At the 11th hour, Lawrie Sanchez has taken his place on board a sinking ship. Liverpool will beat Fulham at Craven Cottage and I can’t see them getting more than a point at the Riverside.
Prediction: 37 points, relegated in 18th place