February - The season starts here!

August > January: Setting the scene for the rest of the season. It's by February where we find a footballing season layed-out, ready for the title-race, the Champions League Knockout stages and the various cup competitions Europe has to offer.

Today I'm going to analyse:

Vincent Kompany lifts the Premier League

The Title Race and Top 4: It already seems a certainty that Man United will claim there 20th Premier League, a feat almost unthinkable in 1992 after 15 years of Paisley, Fagan and Dalglish led, Liverpool dominance. Last year I would've been sitting here drinking a cup of tea, watching some gripping TV, contemplating another Manchester United league victory and even more air-time for the smug mug of Sir Alex Ferguson. Of course on the 2nd February 2012, they were in second place on goal difference to "noisy neighbours" Man City. However, like most fans, I had the usual vision that Man United would gather their standard late season pace and City would wilt due to in-experience and some dodgy recent results including a 1-0 defeat to Everton and a disjointed Christmas period. Naturally I was wrong and the Citizens won their first league in 44 years after the greatest climax to a season since Arsenal's late win at Anfield in 1989.

Mickey Thomas breaks Liverpool Hearts

This season paints a similar scenario with Manchester leading the way. But Man United hold a 9 point lead and a points tally higher than any other Premier League season thus far. Chelsea and Tottenham lie way off the pace and the race for the top 4 appears to be this season's closest run battle. Everton, Arsenal and Liverpool complete the top 7 and all within touching distance of the Blues and Spurs. The recent 2-2 draw between Liverpool and Arsenal promoting just how close the top of the league is, but also the lack of consistency effecting North London and Merseyside. So that's the title race at the present stage, I'm going to scoff some soothers to sooth my sore throat...Ciao, Au Revoir and keep watching the football.

Luis Suarez wheels away after scoring during the 2-2 with Arsenal

Where do you reckon the Premier League will end up in May, and who will complete this season's top 4? Have your say below, or on www.top250.webs.com.

Ben Jones

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