With five teams separated by just three points it is clear that the race for fourth place is every bit as exciting (if not more so) than the Premier League title race. It’s still wide open and with a little over two months still to play, anything could happen. Who do YOU think will win the race?

LIVERPOOL 26 games 47pts.

Back in the driving seat after a 3-2 win over Middlesbrough, they also have crucial matches against Everton and Manchester City to come as well as tough fixtures at Old Trafford and the Emirates. Clearly the Merseyside derby is going to be a hugely important fixture.

'Martin O’Neill’s team are hard to beat with just one defeat in 11 games'


EVERTON 26 games 47 pts.

A great fun of form, only two defeats in 14 games, has led to David Moyes' side pushing high up the table. Tonight’s game at Eastlands could be pivotal as most teams struggle to return from Manchester City with any points. Away form could be important as they take on seemingly easier opponents Sunderland, Fulham and Birmingham in the coming weeks. However, these sides will all be desperate for points themselves.

ASTON VILLA 27 games 47 pts.

Martin O’Neill’s team are hard to beat with just one defeat in 11 games - albeit that was a poor showing away at Fulham - but Villa still travel well with just two defeats on the road. The run-in at Villa Park seems pretty smooth with games at home to Boro, Sunderland, Bolton, Birmingham and Wigan who between them can only muster seven away wins between them. If they can get maximum points from those games, then they will be very well placed to mount a serious top-four challenge.

PORTSMOUTH 27 games 44 pts.

Defensively sound at present. Three games without conceding and the addition of Jermain Defoe could prove hugely important. The form of veterans David James, Sol Campbell and Sylvain Distin has been the key to Harry Redknapp’s success. Pompey’s run-in, at first glance, looks easiest of the five as they do not have to face any of the top three. However, they do face tricky visits to Manchester City, West Ham and Everton.

MANCHESTER CITY 26 games 44 pts.

Sven has performed a minor miracle since he took over at Eastlands taking a side knocked for confidence following a mediocre Stuart Pearce reign. Their home form is a good basis to build from and now just one defeat in their last six away games has eased them into a handy position in the table. Tonight’s game at home to Everton is in some ways their biggest game of the season and no doubt Benjani and Co will be buzzing since their historic win at Old Trafford two weeks ago.