There are seven Premier League matches taking place on Wednesday, with five of the top seven teams in action. While the two Manchester clubs attempt to open up a gap at the top, Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle will all be looking to keep pace in the chase for Europe.

Three of the top four in the Premier League are in action on Sunday on what is a pre-festive treat for armchair fans and punters alike. Here we preview the games.

The Premier League teams will be tested to the maximum over the festive period, with a packed fixture list. Injuries and suspensions are starting to kick in and could have a major impact this weekend – with the rarity of all seven matches kicking off at 3pm.

Liverpool (6/5 in Match Betting) are without stricken midfielder Lucas Leiva while Fulham (5/2, Draw 23/10) are expected to make several changes after their Europa League defeat to FC Twente for Monday night’s Premier League clash at Craven Cottage.

Tuesday sees the return of the Carling Cup, with three quarter-finals set to take place. For those fans of teams in blue it could be a good night as Chelsea, Manchester City and Cardiff all look poised to march on into the last four.

There are two Premier League games on Sunday but all eyes are sure to be in what looks like a mouth-watering clash at Anfield as Liverpool host leaders Manchester City, kick off at 4pm.

There is much more to Sunday’s big Premier League clash between Chelsea and Liverpool at Stamford Bridge than Fernando Torres with plenty at stake for both sides as they look to fulfill their ambitions this season.

For those of us who prefer a Saturday morning lie-in the early Premier League kick-off between Newcastle and Everton might be too early, but there are still five traditional 3pm games which promise fireworks.

There was no Europa League action on Thursday which means a full Premier League programme on Saturday to get stuck into with some intriguing matches lined up, not least the opener of the day when Everton host Manchester United.

The round of last-16 of the Carling Cup continues on Wednesday night with four all-Premier League ties. Stoke play host to Liverpool in what could turn out to be a torrid night for the Reds, while Everton will be out for revenge against Chelsea. Wolves face Man City and Blackburn host Newcastle to complete the night.