Experts predict that the tightly fought premiership battle is likely to result in ‘hung’ champions, with both Chelsea and Manchester United sharing the top spot. Before the crucial last games, the two sides are so closely matched that it is thought impossible to say who will gain the upper hand.
Football commentators have reached this conclusion following a long and hard fought campaign. There have been ups and downs from both sides, and the traditional support for both teams has, at times, been called into question. One pundit said, ‘traditionally, Manchester United has drawn support from middle England and beyond. Most lifetime supporters of the club originate from Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells and Guildford and have never actually ventured anywhere north of Islington. However, Chelsea’s recent reinvention, and the fact that it is supported by a wealthy non-domiciled billionaire, has led to a shift in traditional allegiances. Where once we would have seen a flood of red shirts, we are now seeing blue shirts taking over.
‘That said, the Chelsea players have actually performed a little worse than the Manchester United players when they have dealt with the press. Most notably the Ashley Cole and John Terry sagas. In contrast, Manchester United players have hardly put a foot wrong, regularly towing the club line and giving ‘all credit to the lads’ on their professional performances. However, it seems that the mood of the people might actually be for change, and with the added seduction of a ‘more continental, al fresco feel’ to the Chelsea squad.’
‘In the last week of the campaign we have seen some manoeuvring on both sides. Almost nothing seems impossible, including the forming of a coalition between Ancelotti and Benitez, and an agreement with the ‘Manchester Unionist’ movement. Both sides say that a hung premiership is bad for the country, and will increase tensions with Europe.’