Premier League Matchday 38 – 10 things to watch on final day
By Sachin Bhat
The 2022-23 season in the Premier League draws to a close this Sunday following another roller-coaster eight months. Manchester City won the competition for the third year in a row while Southampton got relegated to the second division after 11 years in the top flight.
However, there’s still plenty at stake as some teams are battling for a place in European competitions, while those at the other end of the table will make one final push to stay alive in the top division.
Here are the 10 things to watch out for on the final day of the Premier League season:
#10 Villa’s last chance for European football against high-flying Brighton
Aston Villa and Brighton have been two of the biggest surprise packages this Premier League season. But while the Seagulls have qualified for the Europa League for the first time in their history, Villa are looking to cling onto their Europa Conference League spot.
With 58 points from 37 games, the Villans are sitting precariously in seventh position with Spurs right behind them. A loss could open up the door for the London outfit to climb above them, ending Villa’s European ambitions.
#9 Liverpool to bid Southampton farewell from Premier League with a hammering
Southampton plays their final Premier League game in a while at the St. Mary’s Stadium against Liverpool, who have been terrific in recent weeks, winning seven of their last eight games. It all came on the bounce until Aston Villa came along and held them to a 1-1 draw last weekend.
Yet, Jurgen Klopp’s side looks strong on paper and should have no issues disposing of the already-relegated Saints team, who have lost their last five league games in a row and haven’t won in 12.
#8 Newcastle to put the final nail in Chelsea’s coffin?
Chelsea wrap up a miserable Premier League campaign at Stamford Bridge to Newcastle United, who are back in the Champions League after 20 years. Even though a top-four finish is secured, the Magpies aren’t likely to relent.
Closing out a fairytale campaign on a winning note is on their agenda, and could pile further misery on the Blues. With just 43 points in the bag, Frank Lampard’s side are down in 12th place and set for their worst finish since 1996.