LIVERPOOL
Liverpool's run-in is far from daunting, with four of their five remaining matches against teams battling to avoid the drop. The Reds' defence - their Achilles heel for so long - is giving little away and the return of Gerard Houllier has lifted spirits for a final push towards domestic and European glory. However, they must make sure their quest for success in Europe does not shift their focus from a first title in 12 years.
To play: Sunderland (A), Derby (H), Tottenham (A), Blackburn (H), Ipswich (H).
Verdict: The Reds have coped well with their injury problems, are finding form at the right time, and are giving little away defensively. The blend of champions.
MANCHESTER UNITED
United have dominated the Premiership since its inception in 1992, winning the competition seven times. However, their 'favourites' tag has slipped and a trip to Chelsea and home match with Arsenal mean they face a fight to retain their crown. They have scored in every away game and remain capable of putting decent teams to the sword in humiliating fashion - however, charitable defending is the reason their hopes are in the balance.
To play: Leicester (A), Chelsea (A), Arsenal (H), Ipswich (A), Charlton (H).
Verdict: Only the brave back against United - but this time things could be just beyond them. Brittle defence and tricky run-in could prove decisive.
ARSENAL
The title is Arsenal's to throw away. Two points behind leaders Liverpool with two games in hand, and with four games at Highbury, they are well-placed to bring the Premiership trophy back to Highbury for the first time since 1998. However, without the brilliant Robert Pires and with a trip to Manchester United and a home game against arch-rivals Tottenham, it is far from a foregone conclusion. Involvement in the FA Cup means there is also hope of repeating the double of four years ago - and there are no European distractions.
To play: Charlton (A), Tottenham (H), Ipswich (H), West Ham (H), Bolton (A), Man Utd (A), Everton (H).
Verdict: Breathtaking going forward, with so many options, the league is there for the taking for Arsenal. However, three London derbies and a trip to Old Trafford could dent their challenge.
NEWCASTLE
Bobby Robson never said his team could compete for the title - but the wily 69-year-old knows the Magpies have a great chance of clinching fourth place in the Premiership, which would open up dreams of an extended run in next season's Champions League. Three points clear of fifth-placed Chelsea, and with a game in hand, their 6-2 drubbing of Everton proves they are back on track after a tricky recent league run and exit from the FA Cup.
To play: Aston Villa (A) Fulham (H) Derby (A) Charlton (H) Blackburn (A) West Ham (H) Southampton (A)
Verdict: A favourable end-of-season fixture programme means the Geordies should be smiling come the summer - provided Bobby can banish memories of their 1995-96 title capitulation.