December 23 – The Premier League has shaken off any talk of a pre-festive slump, proving once again that it thrives in the winter spotlight. Attendance figures this week revealed a remarkable overall stadium capacity of 98.3%, comfortably above the season’s average.
This weekend’s action saw Nottingham Forest break Brentford’s invincible home status to gain a stronger grip on the top four. The Gtech Community Stadium was full to the brim, with only 135 seats left cold. Brentford were one of four teams to hit the 99% capacity mark – a tally which matches the season record.
Manchester United tallied the top capacity of the week, yet again scoring over 99% despite the club’s continued on-pitch struggles. On this week’s episode of the Old Trafford show, Amorim’s side were dismantled 3-0 by travelling Bournemouth, who themselves moved within reach of a Champions League place as their remarkable season gains real pace.
The Red Devils, meanwhile, will spend Christmas in 13th place, just two points clear of West Ham.
At one end of the table, leaders Liverpool scored six against Spurs to secure their place heading into Christmas, as Slot’s side looked in top form once again whilst Postecoglou’s defensive frailties were more evident than ever. Over 61,000 fans took their seats for the blockbuster fixture- a figure which had dwindled by the final whistle.
Everton did their neighbours an unlikely favour by holding Chelsea at bay, meaning Enzo Maresca’s blues see their gap to Liverpool (who have a game in hand) stretch to four points.
At the other end, Wolves achieved a crucial away victory over Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s leaky Leicester. New boss Vitor Pereira looks to be an instant hit and has certainly got his side fit and firing – but can he sustain it long enough to avoid the drop?
Fulham’s attendance disappointed yet again, recording the lowest score of the week. Over 1,600 empty seats were recorded for the fixture, which saw new Southampton boss Ivan Juric, watched from the stands.
The Premier League now has three rounds of fixures over the next 12 days, starting on Boxing Day.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1734967554labto1734967554ofdlr1734967554owedi1734967554sni@g1734967554niwe.1734967554yrrah1734967554
