Blues’ Benitez in last chance saloon

Players’ performances have dropped a level due to the awareness that Rafa won’t be around next season.

Liverpool acquitted themselves well in a difficult week, matching both Man City and Arsenal toe for toe at difficult away grounds. Daniel Sturridge’s goal ratio has eased the burden off Luis Suarez while Lucas Leiva’s re-emergence has exposed Joe Allen for what he is – a mid table team player. West Brom will suffer.

Man United 1 Everton 1

The league leaders have a nine-point comfort zone over noisy neighbours City. This should allow Sir Alex Ferguson to rotate his side ahead of the clash with Jose Mourinho’s Los Blancos. Expect Everton to exploit the absence of Robin van Persie and perhaps Rio Ferdinand as Fergie looks for freshness.

Sunderland 1 Arsenal 1

Sunderland have rediscovered their oomph, their late capitulation at Reading notwithstanding. This appears to me like a stonewall stalemate against the inconsistent Arsenal, who ground out a 1-0 victory over Stoke last weekend.