Sunday football - as it happened

1. Leaders Chelsea held 1-1 at Southampton
2. Arsenal win 2-1 at West Ham
3. Bottom side Leicester beat Hull
4. Spurs and Man Utd draw 0-0
5. Newcastle 3-2 Everton, Stoke 2-0 WBA

The games keep coming thick and fast at this time of year. In fact it is just 25 hours until your next dose of Premier League action, with Liverpool entertaining Swansea tomorrow evening.

Then it is just another three days until a full 10-match top-flight programme on 1 January.

Ambassador, you are really spoiling us.

See you there to gorge on more of the good stuff.

Player reaction

Hull defender Curtis Davies: Disappointing result! The win at Sunderland cancelled out! Had enough chances to win but wasn't to be! Everton even bigger game now! #HCAFC

Now then, this is a curious one.

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew usually likes a chinwag with the press after his side win.

Today? He is nowhere to be seen. Assistant John Carver has come out to face the cameras instead.

If you were conspiratorially minded, you might put that alongside his standing as the favourite for the vacant Crystal Palace job and make four.

Player reaction

QPR midfielder Joey Barton: Not a game for the purists today. Scrappy encounter. Clean sheet and another point on the board. We go again on the 1st. No easy games in the Premier League. Every point will be valuable in May. Some people have short memories and high expectations.

I think where they are now is about par for QPR...

BBC

Ian Wright

606 on BBC Radio 5 live

Roberto Martinez believes some of his players played "magnificently" during their 3-2 defeat at Newcastle. Here is what Ian Wright has to say...

"Roberto did brilliantly in his first season but now he is struggling. We are going to find out what he is made of now. I watched the game and sometimes I had to leave and it was then that this "magnificent" play happened, because I didn't see anything magnificent."

You can hear more of Wrighty on 606 on BBC Radio 5 live now.

Player reaction

Alexis Sanchez

Arsenal striker Alexis Sanchez: 3 points well deserved ! Happy to be part of a TEAM of great players and very nice people!!! Thanks! !!

Text us on 81111

Owen, Liverpool: Martinez has absolutely no plan B. He seems to have a unwavering commitment to playing 4-2-3-1 but refuses to change shape or try anything different when it doesn't work. So frustrating!

Sam, Wigan: Martinez tries to take credit for players Moyes brought in and developed. He never takes responsibility for any bad results. When the going gets tough he sneaks out the back door and gets another job.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Manager reaction

Paul Lambert reflecting on his Aston Villa side's disciplinary record after Fabian Delph picked up their fourth red card of the season: "We're not a dirty team, we don't have anyone really who is a dirty player.

"Look at the lads who have been sent off - they are not malicious at all.

"It doesn't look great but the lads are committed to the challenge. Gabby Agbonlahor one against Manchester United wasn't but Kieran Richardson's against West Brom I understand because his studs were showing. Christian Benteke's against Tottenham was provoked as I said at the time."

OptaJoe: 88 - Chelsea and Manchester City both won 88 points in the Premier League in 2014. Rivals.

Ian Wright

606 on BBC Radio 5 live

"Alex Ferguson would say something one week and change it the next week. The thing with him, and it is the same with Jose Mourinho, is that his team is in the right frame of mind and that they win. Managers need to use every tactic possible - within reason - that will help them win games."

All's fair in love, war and the dugout apparently. You can hear more of Wrighty's tales and your dispatches from the frontline of today's games on 606 on BBC Radio 5 live now.

Text us on 81111

Ged, Swindon: Martinez' true quality and nature coming out now. Second rate, flatters to deceive, always some injustice to whine about. Horrible.

Phil, Liverpool: More than struggling to swallow. Positivity is fine, unless he's delusional. Comments after Hull, Southampton and Stoke doesn't indicate to the fans that we're not playing good enough.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Manager reaction

Getty Images

Everton manager Roberto Martinez: "We imposed ourselves early on and scored a good goal from open play - if we got a second goal then the game would have been over. Disappointed to concede a goal in the second phase of a set-play. We need to be strong in those moments. You look at the character we showed and fought until the end. There were incredible performances. We need to get a win and get momentum.

Regarding Papiss Cisse's swipe at Seamus Coleman in the first half: "You don't want to see players sent off but you don't want to see those actions on a football pitch. When you want to hurt someone it's pre-mediation - throwing an elbow should happen in a football game. Cisse was very very fortunate.

The current league run: "It is a concern - it's time to be very, very strong and understand what we need to do. We need to make sure we get through this period as quick as we can. I'm excited what we have round the corner - results aren't coming, but the effort and attitude I can see. At this stage we want to get a good group of consistent results and try to build something into final third of season."

Roberto Martinez is straight out to front up to the television cameras and he heralds some "incredible performances in the face of adversity" from his side.

Some travelling fans might struggle to swallow that one.

He is tougher on Papiss Cisse and referee Craig Pawson, saying that the Newcastle striker should have been shown red for his apparent elbow on Seamus Coleman.

Full quotes to come.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Maria Fiorentino: What a difference a few months make, Martinez was a hero and Pardew a zero just a few months ago....

Geoff Leik: If you combine the ability of Barry, Alcaraz, and Joel, you still don't get a player good enough for the Premier League.

Graeme Dawson: Massive massive 3 Points! Still not a great performance but something to build on #NUFC

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Match of the Day running order

Grab a glass of claret and enjoy. BBC One, 22:25 GMT. Or 23:20 if you're watching in Scotland.

BBC

Getty Images

So which of these two likely lads would you expect to be in their current job the longest?

At the start of the season, with Roberto Martinez heralding a new era with the signing of Romelu Lukaku and Alan Pardew apparently close to getting the elbow from owner Mike Ashley, it would have been a no brainer.

Now? Not so easy.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Vercovicium: Where are all those people who had a laugh at Moyes and lauded Martinez's style of football?

Sanj: Taken a season longer than I thought but Martinez is turning Everton into Wigan Athletic.

Jamie Mills O'Brien: 3 defeats in a row would never have happened under Moyes.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Player reaction

Getty Images

Newcastle goalscorer Jack Colback: "It is nice to finally get a Newcastle goal, it has been a long time coming and I have had chances in other games and failed to put them away.

"Papiss is lethal in and around the box and it was a crucial goal to get us back in the game, We have had difficult period with losing the last two games and hopefully this puts us back on track."

Vote result

After their fine comeback against Manchester City, we've been asking whether you think Burnley can avoid relegation.

The result is in, and 56.6% of you think the Clarets have what it takes to stay up.

Thanks for voting.

BBC

We're all mid-table now

BBC

After successive defeats to Sunderland and Manchester United, a win to put the bounce back into Alan Pardew's heel.

His Newcastle side are up to ninth. Everton's engines have stalled badly though. They have four points from the last 21 and are sliding south fast.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live at St James' Park

"It is a deserved win for Newcastle, despite Everton's late goal and the chances coming at both ends. Over the 90 minutes I do not think there was enough urgency or quality from Everton so well done to Newcastle.

"Everton will be nervously looking over their shoulder. There is just five points between them and the bottom three, I am not saying they are going to get relegated but they could do with a win as soon as possible."

FULL-TIME

HITS THE WOODWORK

PA

Ayoze Perez! No! It's off the post and Everton are still alive in the game... A minute left.

Emmanuel Riviere chases a ball into the corner and goes for a decisive goal rather than a crucial few seconds on the clock.

His cross just fails to find Remy Cabella though.

Might he regret that?

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Alex Barton: I reckon Martinez will win us the Europa League but get us relegated. We are awful.

Aashish: Martinez looks baffled on the touchline and his team are clueless on it - not a good combination.

Craig JJ Hilton: Need a centre back neither Alcaraz or Distin are good enough for the Premiership let alone Everton + Stones injured often.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Seamus Coleman gets into a good position down the right, but his low cross is claimed by Jak Alnwick ahead of Romelu Lukaku.

INJURY TIME

Four minutes of injury time for the hosts to see out.

SUBSTITUTION

A time-sapping substitution from Alan Pardew as Remy Cabella comes on for Yoan Gouffran in the final minute.

Ross Barkley wellies a shot wide and high - all power and no accuracy. Time running out for Everton. A minute of normal time left.

It was very nearly in the Kevin Mirallas zone!

The Belgian's right foot gets the nod over Leighton Baines' left and he is only a whisker away from the top corner with Jak Alnwick nowhere.

Three minutes left.

Newcastle are suddenly looking rattled. Jack Colback gives away a free-kick in a dangerous position with a needless foul on Ross Barkley.

Is this in the Leighton Baines zone?

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live at St James' Park

"That came out of nothing. It was one simple through ball and Mirallas has made a great run. Now is there a chance for Everton to build up a head of steam? There's not long but can they get something out of the game?

Listen to second half commentary.

Manager reaction

Getty Images

Leicester manager Nigel Pearson: "I should be smiling a lot broader shouldn't I? It's a relief, that's the over-riding feeling. But we need to back it up.

"We know we've dropped an awful lot of points. A lot of our performances have deserved more than what we had today.

"Steve Bruce will feel his side should have won the game and we have had that feeling a number of times this season.

"But we can't relax now. We produced a grit and determination to keep the ball out of the net and we rode our luck."

GOAL

AFP

Is there life in this yet?

Leighton Baines gets his head up, spots the run of Kevin Mirallas and plays a perfect defence-splitter of a pass.

The Belgian spins into the space behind the Newcastle back four and clips a finish past Jak Alnwick to give the visitors hope.

Manager reaction

PA

Hull manager Steve Bruce: "We really passed the ball well at Sunderland but today we did not pass the ball well enough.

"We threw everything at Leicester and missed chance after chance. We missed more chances today then we probably had in the last four or five games.

"Our home form is a real disappointment and we can't put our finger on it. We need to take our chances. It's a really disappointing result for us, there's no hiding from that. It kind of sums up the season."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Kithmina Hewage: Wonder if Everton fans want Moyes back now

Blake Keeble: Do you not think Everton are starting to feel the effects of playing in the Europa league?

Lewis Roberts: Problem with Everton is they paid nearly £30mil for a striker that's been shocking this season! Chelsea right to sell?

Steel1404: Martinez is bringing open and attacking football to EFC but hilariously also bringing Wigan Athletic's results.

Newcastle goalkeeper Jak Alnwick is scrabbling in his attempt to claim Luke Garbutt's delivery, but there is no Everton challenge to punish his misjudgement.

The ball trundles out for a goalkick and the life seems to have seeped out of the visitors.

Everton win a corner as Jack Colback slides in on Gareth Barry down by the byeline, can they make anything of this?

Text us on 81111

Mike in Liverpool: Why persist with Eto'o on the wing? Why take off Kone? Why the refusal to play Pienaar and Osman this season? Roberto is running out of time.

Rob, Villa fan: I suppose all teams have some shooting practice in training, except for mine apparently. As Charlie Brown says, "I can't stand it. I just can't stand it".

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Manager reaction

AFP

Burnley manager Sean Dyche: "It was a fantastic result but beyond that is the performance. The performance was very good against Tottenham and Liverpool and we took that into the game.

"At half-time I thought we were performing well. We believe in what we are doing. The key was getting that first goal so early. I don't know that City were casual. I believe in the physicality of my players. I am more interested in my performance. They came a long way in that game to get that point.

"It might be Manchester City and we might have been 2-0 down but it is only a point."

Fifteen minutes remain. You can pay out on Newcastle already though.

Gareth Barry balloons an attempted cross well over Romelu Lukaku's head and out for a goal kick.

Manager reaction

Getty Images

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini: "It was a big opportunity to get two more points. Everybody would think the game was over but I always say it is never over until the last minute. Burnley's first goal was a mistake of the referee.

"The pitch was very heavy. Two games in 48 hours but we were winning 2-0. Once it was 2-2 we didn't have the legs to score. We only had two shots after that. In the first half Burnley didn't have any clear chances. We didn't play well in the second half.

"We have 43 points, we have the second half of the season to decide who is the best team. We were at home. That is an advantage but Chelsea and Manchester United also drew. We will see whether Yaya (Toure) or Vincent (Kompany) will be fit for the next game."

SUBSTITUTION

Both managers make a change.

Everton's final roll of the dice is to take off Arouna Kone for top-scorer Romelu Lukaku.

Newcastle also make a switch up front with Papiss Cisse off and Emmanuel Riviere on.

Text us on 81111

James in London: Non-league team of the day has to go to Bristol Rovers - 2nd vs 3rd in the Conference and they go and run out 4-0 winners against Macclesfield. Stellar performance!

Nick from Burnley: Of course Burnley can stay up, they just need to get a good home run going and pick up points away! Leicester, Crystal Palace and West Brom to go down.

Dave, Devon: So refreshing to see the results just a bit more unpredictable this season. Good to see that big money doesn't always guarantee success! Also amusing to see fans of such clubs getting upset and indignant over the results!

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Everton are getting repeatedly caught on the counter.

Antolin Alcarez picks up a booking as he tries to bring a swift Newcastle raid to a close by clattering into Moussa Sissoko.

He doesn't even manage to do that. Craig Pawson plays advantage after the foul, allowing Papiss Cisse to warm Joel Robles' palms, before pulling play back and pulling out the yellow card.

Player reaction

Getty Images

Southampton striker Graziano Pelle: Fantastic football fight against @chelseafc today. Glad we could hold on to our deserved point #teamwork

Saints goalkeeper Fraser Forster: Excellent point today! Great effort from the lads. #saintsfc

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

David Ljunggren: What luck for Newcastle that we are finally playing a team that's worse than us. Everton have been just shocking this half.

Stavros Makrozachopo: Something's very wrong with Everton and the worrying thing is, that you don't know what exactly is the problem.

Raoul Bery: Let me guess, Alan Pardew is the man again.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live at St James' Park

"Roberto Martinez will be bemoaning the fact that the goals are coming from mistakes by his players but Newcastle are chasing everything down and on on slippy surfaces likes this mistakes will happen. Colback nipped in and finished it and it's going to be very hard for Everton now."

Listen to second half commentary.

Manager reaction

Getty Images

Stoke manager Mark Hughes: "It was a struggle for both teams to go again in the short space of time. It affected us in the first half as we were off the pace. The second half we had more energy in our play and we were more on the front foot and we got the first goal, which was crucial today.

"We are a team that can consistently be in the top half if we all do our jobs, and we want to stay there for the rest of the season.

"After a good performance and great result against Everton it was important we came here and got the job done.

"We are happy with our points tally, but if we look back at games here when we slipped up, maybe we could have been a bit higher."

GOAL

Reuters

AFP

Lights out and good night? It may well be.

Newcastle have a two-goal cushion and there is another rick from an Everton player to help them to it.

Ross Barkley should cut out Daryl Janmaat's straightforward pass, but the ball slips over his foot and on to Jack Colback who slips the ball under Joel Robles with the outside of his foot to score his first Newcastle goal.

Better from Everton who are building with purpose down the left through Leighton Baines.

The England international is again the supplier - his low cross is stabbed just wide by a stretching Arouna Kone.

Irvine's Baggies future

West Brom manager Alan Irvine speaking about his future: "Obviously it is up to other people. All I can do is keep working as we do and we will see what happens.

"My immediate future is that I will be working on West Ham tomorrow. It's a big game and we need to get a good result.

"We have good players in the dressing room and obviously I'm employed to work with those players and I'm happy to do that."

Manager reaction

Getty Images

West Brom manager Alan Irvine: "We conceded two deflected goals. When you are not getting the breaks a lot of things go against you. We created chances in the first half, we hit the post at 1-0 and we perhaps had a chance to score before they scored.

"But as you say, when your luck is out, your luck's out. We had enough chances but we didn't hit the target often enough. The nature and timing of the goals made it difficult for us.

"Without making mistakes we have ended up with a couple of cruel deflections that have made it difficult for Ben [Foster]. In the first-half the fans saw the players had performed well and we had been on the front foot, but obviously the second half was different."

WHAT A MISS!

Samuel Eto'o didn't have to score, but he had to do better than that.

The Cameroon legend is served up a chance on a platter by a perfect pull-back from Leighton Baines. No defenders around him, only a slight angle and just 12 yards from goal, but Eto'o blazes his shot towards the second tier to jeers from the home fans.

Player Reaction

Mesut Ozil: Derby winner in the last match of 2014! A good day for every Gunner & Gooner! ☺✌⚽⚽

SUBSTITUTION

Roberto Martinez does indeed decide to change things up.

Kevin Mirallas is on in place of Aiden McGeady.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Mike Lawson: I hate being negative about my club's own players. But Aiden McGeady has absolutely no place at Everton. Rarely competent.

Cliff B: Besides his goal against Villa, McGeady has been so out of depth in the EPL it baffles me how Martinez wanted him so badly .

Jeremiah Kariuki: Everton turning to be the new whipping boys of PL! What has gone wrong with the Toffees, a team that was 5th last season?

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

If Everton lose this one, they will have taken just four points from the last 21 available.

Roberto Martinez has half an hour to ensure that statistic does not come to pass.

Romelu Lukaku and Kevin Mirallas are his likeliest options off the bench.

Allardyce 'baffled' at ref's decision

AFP

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce was annoyed that his side had a goal disallowed when the score was goalless. Former Arsenal man Alex Song almost made an instant impact with a low volley into the bottom corner of the net from 20 yards. However, Diafra Sakho was penalised for standing in an offside position in front of goal, despite not touching the ball.

"The biggest shock was us not being in front at half time," said Allardyce. "We scored a perfectly good goal that was disallowed. It certainly should not have been disallowed on the basis of what Mike Riley and his staff tell us. The officials clearly got it horribly wrong and to say we are bitterly disappointed and frustrated is an understatement. Baffled is more the feeling.

"They said the attacker was in the eye line of the goalkeeper. Complete nonsense. When officials make these decisions they are supposed to have a clear view. It is impossible for the assistant referee to say that. They are wrong, Sakho is not in the eye line of the goalkeeper.

"Neil Swarbrick could only guess he might be in front of the goalkeeper."

Everton don't look well set up to chase this game.

The Toffees press forward, but, with James McCarthy subbed off, lack cover in midfield when they lose the ball.

Newcastle break threateningly again and a promising two-on-two situation breaks down through a heavy touch from Papiss Cisse.

Full-time stats

BBC

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live at St James' Park

"That was a lovely finish from Perez. He has not done an awful lot today but that was a great goal. Every Everton player is looking at Aiden McGeady and wondering what he is doing there, he has been punished for that mistake."

Listen to second half commentary.

GOAL

AFP

The bargain of the season so far? He certainly isn't far off.

Ayoze Perez, signed for £1.5m from the Spanish second tier in the summer, has his fifth Premier League goal of the season with a classy finish.

The Newcastle striker keeps his cool as on the edge of the box, cutting inside his man and firing a low shot between the legs of Seamus Coleman and past a wrong-footed Joel Robles.

PA

Ross Barkley injects immediate impetus into Everton's attack, picking the ball up in his own half, pinning his ears back and sprinting towards the Newcastle goal.

He slips in Arouna Kone down the left-hand channel, who stands the ball up to the back post, where Seamus Coleman can't quite make anything of it.

Dion Dublin

BBC Final Score

"Leicester worked really hard in the game and got the bit of luck they haven't had in the last few games. Hull boss Steve Bruce will be wondering what his side had to do to score because they had chance after chance."

Football League round-up

Leaders Shrewsbury and second-placed Wycombe are struggling to be separated. The two sides drew 0-0 in their top-of-the-table clash, meaning they are still level on points with only one goal separating them on goal difference.

But neither Burton or Luton can take advantage. Burton's game at Accrington was postponed, while the Hatters were held 1-1 by Portsmouth.

At the bottom, there were two vital victories for Tranmere and York at the expense of their relegation rivals. Tranmere beat Northampton 2-1 and York cruised to a 3-0 success at Carlisle. There was more misery for bottom club Hartlepool though, as a 2-0 home defeat by Morecambe leaves them eight points adrift.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Dominic: Alan Irvine needs to go. Football is dire and he constantly plays Wisdom who is awful!

Text us on 81111

Matt, Sutton: Villa are useless. Sell the best players quick, make a buck, struggling, yet again. Utter rubbish. I honestly don't know who to point the finger at! We deserve, yet again, to go down. Our saving grace will be 3 teams that are worse.Again!

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

KICK-OFF

And we are back up and running in the day's final Premier League game.

Vote

After their stunning comeback at Manchester City, we want to know whether you think Burnley can avoid relegation.

Have your say by voting at the top of this page. The vote will close at 18:00 GMT.

SUBSTITUTION

This will be a popular one with the travelling fans.

Ross Barkley, who scored a wonderful goal in Everton's win at St James' Park last season, is coming on.

James McCarthy makes way.

QPR target Aguero?!

PA

QPR manager Harry Redknapp was in a jokey mood when asked who he might want to sign in the January transfer window: "Sergio Aguero and three or four others if you'd like to get them here. It's difficult. We're where we expected to be. I'm not disappointed with the points tally. We've done well with we've had. We've got good lads here."

Manager reaction

PA

QPR manager Harry Redknapp, speaking to BBC Sport: "Palace are a decent team. I've seen Palace a number of times this season and I've never seen them play badly. They're a dangerous team. I think it was a fair result. I couldn't honestly say we deserved to win."

Garth Crooks

BBC Final Score

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has complained about the decision not to award his side a penalty at Southampton for a foul on Cesc Fabregas. Here is Garth Crooks' take...

"In my opinion it was a penalty so I think he has a case. I have watched a lot of Chelsea and they get a lot of calls that go their way. They have had a lot of controversy with diving recently. What goes around, comes around. They have to take it."

Manager reaction

Reuters

Crystal Palace caretaker manager Keith Millen, speaking to BBC Sport: "I've got to give the lads a load of credit for a battling performance. I thought we stood up to QPR fantastically.

"We were all shocked by what happened yesterday but I've seen the lads' resilience and I had no doubt they'd show up. We deserved at least a point.

"If we can continue like that, we'll be OK. We need to score more goals, but if we keep that organisation, we'll be OK."

Asked about his chances of getting the manager's job: "It's really down to the chairman to decide."

Football League round-up

Things remain the same at the top of League One as leaders Bristol City and second-placed Swindon earn wins against Gillingham and Port Vale respectively.

Third-placed Preston fall further behind the pair as they can only manage a 1-1 draw at lowly Crewe. Mid-table Walsall cause the shock of the day by thumping fourth-placed MK Dons in a 3-0 away win, while there were also victories for Bradford and Fleetwood.

Football League round-up

Leaders Bournemouth move four points clear at the top after a 2-0 win at Millwall. Middlesbrough edge up to third with a point at Blackburn, while Watford join them in the play-off positions with a thumping 4-2 victory at Cardiff.

Steve Clarke earns his first win as Reading boss in a 2-1 home success over Norwich, with Huddersfield also climbing further away from the drop-zone with a late 2-1 win against in-form Bolton.

Blackpool grab a 1-1 against Rotherham thanks to teenage substitute Dom Telford's first Football League goal, but the Tangerines are still nine points adrift of safety. Wolves go up to eighth with a 2-1 home triumph against Brentford, who remain sixth after their second straight defeat.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Giles Pearman: Perhaps City's legion of talented fancy foreigners need bolstering with some plain English stubbornness.

Karl Cobane: The result isn't the disappointing thing, the attitude is. That was a spineless, embarrassing, pathetic second half.

Jay: What will Manchester City do when Toure leaves for a month?

Garth Crooks

BBC Final Score

"I saw more today why City won't retain the championship than any other thing this season. City monumentally blew it today, especially after Chelsea drew at Southampton. Burnley played like giants but City were a whimper."

Opta

Compare and contrast.

To the left is the average touch map for Newcastle with only Fabricio Coloccini (number 2) and Mike Williamson (6) inside the Magpies' defensive half.

To the right is Everton's with only Samuel Eto'o (5) and Arouna Kone (9) getting into the attacking half.

They who dare win? It didn't work out like that in the Tyne-Wear derby for Newcastle. We shall see.

Manager reaction

Reuters

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger: "We had a committed and united performance. The keeper made some good saves. We knew we needed to be good in the air today.

"I didn't know why Alex Song's goal didn't stand, I thought it would. We scored a good second goal and had many opportunities to score another. It didn't come and at 2-1 I thought the last 30 minutes would be difficult.

"We did dig deep. It is down to consistency and we are slowly getting there."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Chris Wright: Very rare you see MCFC drop points at home especially after going 2-0 up against a team lying 2nd bottom. Jose's smiling!

Mickey Wallis: Watching Arsenal this season is not good for the ticker. Once again wasting chances and hanging on by the skin of our teeth.

Nathan Bright: How much more rueing will that United team be doing now over those missed chances.

Player reaction

EPA

Tottenham striker Harry Kane, whose side drew 0-0 with Manchester United: Tough game today, we will take the point and move on! Atmosphere was electric! Looking forward to Chelsea next! #COYS

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Infostrada Sports: Sunderland equal an almost 113-year-old club record of keeping 4 successive clean sheets in top flight away matches (Dec 1901 to Feb 1902).

Player reaction

Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel: YEEEEEESSSSSSS!!!!!!!! Get in boys!! Massive massive win! Now we need to push on!

Text us on 81111

Andy in Armagh: Manchester City have completely choked this afternoon. They had a golden opportunity to close the gap to Chelsea at the top of the table, but they've fluffed their lines. Chances like this won't come around often. Yaya Toure's presence was well and truly missed in the centre of the park today.

Hugo: A point against the promoted teams just isn't good enough for a team like Man City. You would expect them to do a lot better!

Altay Sonuvar: People complaining how Chelsea are struggling away from home because they drew against Southampton away. Now that City have drawn against Burnley at home, why aren't those people suggesting that City are struggling at home?

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

HALF-TIME

Close, but no cigar for Newcastle. Paul Dummett heads on Ayoze Perez's cross and it looks for a moment as if Daryl Janmaat has the simple task of turning in as it runs into his path.

Unfortunately for the hosts Sylvain Distin is also running into his path and the Everton defender gets in the block to keep things all square at the break.

As it stands

So what do today's results mean for the top few in the Premier League?

BBC

And what about the bottom?

BBC

Aiden McGeady flashes a stepover to buy a yard of space, but the Everton man spoons his subsequent shot over the top from 15 yards.

We are heading into two minutes of injury time at St James' Park.

MOTD's Dan O'Hagan at the KC Stadium

"More home woes for Hull - bar the final 20 minutes they were poor. But for Leicester the only way is up."

Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Etihad Stadium

"Chelsea have dropped points today and so have Manchester City but we know there are going to be hurdles between now and the end of the season.

"City were not very convincing, they were missing a striker but they did look vulnerable at the back. Burnley played very well in the second half and deserved a draw."

There are some very embarrassed City players trudging to the sidelines as Liam Gallaghers' vocals ring out of the stadium speakers.

Eliaquim Mangala again failed to impose himself in Vincent Kompany's absence and the rest of his team engaged cruise control far too early when 2-0 up at the break.

They have been caught out by a Burnley side that never quit.

FULL-TIME

FULL-TIME

Football League latest

Grandstand finish at Molineux! Wolves, down to 10 men, allow Brentford to pull a one back through Danny Batth's own goal. The Bees trail 2-1 but have a numerical advantage with a few minutes left.

Bolton's excellent recent run appears to be coming to an end. Huddersfield grab a 2-1 lead through Nahki Wells. Craig Noone pulls a goal back for Cardiff, but they are losing 4-2 against Watford.

FULL-TIME

FULL-TIME

Arsenal just about get over the line.

West Ham can't believe it. Enner Valencia heads over from six yards out. Arsenal's defence all at sea.

RED CARD

Getty Images

Stephen Quinn uses his hand to prevent Leicester breaking in on goal. The ref has spotted it and he is walking...

Not yet. City clear and go in hunt of a winner of their own...

The keeper's up

Adrian twice goes forward for a West Ham free-kick as the Hammers desperately search for a leveller. Nothing doing so far.

Burnley with a free-kick, 30 yards out and off to the right. Prime position for a delivery into the box. Have they got a winner in them?

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Alex Seftel: Crazy stuff but don't forget that last time Man City played Burnley at home in the Premier League, it finished 3-3!

Alex Kraushaar: Fully deserved from Burnley. City have been absolutely abysmal in this 2nd Half. Woeful.

Liz Tray: City getting what we deserve. As Savage said, we are simply conceding mountains of chances. Someone is going to put them in!

FULL-TIME

INJURY TIME

Five minutes of injury time at the Etihad.

Are City about to let Chelsea off the hook after the Blues draw at Southampton earlier today?

FULL-TIME

CLOSE!

Desperate stuff from QPR as Jason Puncheon's shot is somehow kept out by Rob Green, then a Palace attacker goes down under Joey Barton's challenge. No penalty. And rightly so.

GOAL

PA

Papiss Cisse levels for Newcastle after a long spell of pressure by the home side. The Senegal striker fires in after defender Mike Williamson brilliantly manages to pull back Cheick Tiote's ball to the far post.

HITS THE WOODWORK

Both sides close to a winner in the dying minutes.

Jordi Gomez rattles the Aston Villa woodwork with a clean strike from 20 yards before Leandro Bacune brings a good save out of Costel Pantilimon at the other end.

INJURY TIME

Five minutes added on as Kevin Nolan fizzes in a low shot from 25 yards which the keeper just about gathers. Calum Chambers is on as Arsenal look to protect their lead.

Everton's Seamus Coleman goes down in his own area during a Newcastle corner. It remains unclear as to why at first, but TV replays show he felt the full force of Newcastle striker Papiss Cisse's arm.

RED CARD

As if it wasn't hard enough for the Foxes.

Paul Konchesky gets his second yellow card as he blocks off Ahmed Elmohamady.

Down to ten and a minute of normal time left.

Aston Villa look like they have weathered the storm and have decided to respect the point after losing Fabian Delph to a red card early in the second half.

Four to go.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Scotty: Don't know where Arsene Wenger got his coaching badges but they obviously forgot to teach him how to make substitutions.

Andrew Hook: Why does Wenger never make subs with Walcott and Podolski at his disposal?

Jarvis Whiteley: Adrian is having an absolute belter! As an arsenal fan, it's bittersweet to see a keeper play so well! COYG!

Burnley aren't happy with just a point. They are scenting blue blood.

Kieran Trippier fires a free-kick into the City wall from 25 yards as they press on in search of a winner.

Arsenal continue to look the better side and they are lightning on the counter-attack - Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain racing through from deep but shooting into the side-netting.

CLOSE!

You can't come any closer without scoring.

Hull striker Abel Hernandez heads against the post, Curtis Davies crashes the loose ball goalwards, but somehow Danny Drinkwater keeps it out from under the bar.

Stoke have West Brom penned back as they look for a third. Alan Irvine must be a worried man this evening.

Dion Dublin

BBC Final Score

AP

"Burnley have been knocking at the door and working so hard. Jason Shackell plays a ball into an area where there is going to be a clash and it falls for Barnes, who wants it and who fires it in."

Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Etihad Stadium

"Burnley could even win this now. I mentioned City's defence earlier but you have to give a lot of credit to Ashley Barnes, it was an absolutely superb strike and Burnley deserve to be level."

Listen to full 90 minute commentary.

Football League latest

Play-off chasing Norwich give themselves hope of a remarkable comeback at Reading. Midfielder Bradley Johnson blasts in a 20-yard rocket to halve the deficit to 2-1 - could the Canaries snatch Steve Clarke's first win as Royals boss out of his grasp?

Wolves are coasting towards victory against Brentford as James Tarkowski bundles into his own net to put the Molineux men 2-0 in front. But the Bees are given a lifeline moments later as home midfielder Kevin McDonald is sent off for a second yellow card.

Leaders Bournemouth are still leading 2-0 at Millwall, while fourth-placed Middlesbrough are yet to find a breakthrough at Blackburn.

A brilliant Everton counter-attack finishes with Seamus Coleman firing a yard past the post from the edge of the area - the full-back was flagged offside, but replays suggest the Irish defender might have been level.

GOAL

Getty Images

What a shot! What a scoreline! What a comeback!

Manchester City get their just desserts after a lacklustre second half as Ashley Barnes hammers into the top corner from 15 yards. The hosts failed to deal with the initial ball in and now have 10 minutes to rescue themselves.

FINAL FIVE

We're approaching the final five minutes in our six 15:00 GMT kick-offs...

Manchester City are living on their leathers as we head into the final 10 minutes.

Martin Demichelis had to fly across to snuff out Scott Arfield's shot which was solidly struck and surely goalbound from ten yards.

Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Etihad Stadium

"There is some uncertainty creeping into Man City's defence now and Burnley will be starting to thing they can get something from this game."

Listen to full 90 minute commentary.

Dion Dublin

BBC Final Score

"Burnley are having a real good go and penning City back in. I played with Sean Dyche and I know he will have gone mad at his players at half-time. They have been much better this second half."

HITS THE WOODWORK

Getty Images

Desperate times for Leicester, but they still lead.

Jake Livermore volleys against the post as Danny Simpson's aimless header loops up invitingly for him. Wes Morgan then flings himself in to block as Livermore attempts to follow up. Appeals for handball from the hosts. No dice from referee Phil Dowd.

Newcastle are applying pressure on Everton's defence at St James' Park - they have had a lot of possession in and around Everton's area, but have lacked the killer final ball.

Another save from Adrian, this time to deny Santi Cazorla. Arsenal, try as they might, can't quite put the Hammers away.

MOTD's Guy Mowbray at Loftus Road

"Both clubs are in the market for a new striker in January and today we are seeing why. Charlie Austin can't do it all on his own for QPR."

CLOSE!

Suddenly it is Aston Villa who are coming on strong and Costel Pantilimon has to stiffen his wrists behind a forceful Ron Vlaar header that threatened to sneak in at the near post.

SUBSTITUTION

A change for Manchester City as Samir Nasri applauds the home fans and slaps palms with the on-coming Frank Lampard.

GREAT SAVE!

West Ham keeper Adrian is earning his match fee this afternoon - sticking out a smart foot to divert Alexis Sanchez's effort wide.

Ten-man Aston Villa are scrambling to keep Sunderland at bay in the main, but they almost find the breakthrough on a rare attack as Jack Grealish curls just wide.

GREAT SAVE!

AFP

Brilliant save by West Ham keeper Adrian to deny Arsenal a third. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain looks certain to score as he throws himself at Alexis Sanchez's cross but his diving header is superbly kept out from point-blank range by Adrian's feet.

It's just not happening for West Brom now, with intricate little moves outside the box looking more Baggies than Barcelona.

SUBSTITUTION

Leicester almost have a second and some much-needed breathing space as Chris Wood's side-foot volley clears the bar from Riyad Mahrez's cross.

Mahrez and Esteban Cambiasso make way in a double change shortly after with Ritchie De Laet and Danny Drinkwater on.

CLOSE!

QPR are getting closer - James McArthur clearing Steven Caulker's header off the line. Excellent delivery from the corner by Joey Barton.

Football League latest

League One leaders Bristol City restore their two-goal lead at Gillingham, Scott Wagstaff netting for 3-1 shortly after the hosts had reduced the arrears through Cody McDonald. Nearest rivals Swindon will keep pursuit with City if they can beat Port Vale. And the Robins lead against visitors Vale through Andy Williams. Bradford still lead against Notts County, as do Walsall - who double their advantage at MK Dons - and Fleetwood.

Still goalless in the top-of-the-table League Two clash between Shrewsbury and Wycombe. Little over 25 minutes for someone to find a winner. York are 2-0 ahead at Carlisle, lifting themselves above their hosts and three other sides at the foot of the table as it stands. Tranmere also edge 2-1 in front at Northampton in another huge match at the bottom.

CLOSE!

Aston Villa's defence is creaking. Connor Wickham stabs a shot into Brad Guzan from five yards before backheeling the loose ball wide. Steven Fletcher was pleading for the simple sidefoot pass rather than the showboat effort.

CLOSE!

Newcastle midfielder Moussa Sissoko wastes a golden chance to equalise. Papiss Cisse flicks a long downfield punt into his path, but the France international takes a heavy touch with just the keeper Joel Robles to beat.

West Ham continue to fancy their chances here and Morgan Amalfitano shoots over. Into the final 20 minutes at Upton Park.

Leicester are bunkering down and counting on their ability to see out the last 25 minutes without conceding.

Every man behind the ball as Hull's midfield line up 25 yards out to take a shy at goal. This is going to be a hard watch for the away fans.

GREAT SAVE!

Things are livening up at Loftus Road. Jason Puncheon, who hit the post for Crystal Palace in the first half, ends a positive run with a 20-yard shot that Rob Green tips over.

And as a sign that Palace are going for it, they now have a recognised striker on the pitch. Fraizer Campbell, who started on the bench after taking a knock against Southampton two days ago, is on for Wilfried Zaha.

Will he stay or will he go?

Garth Crooks

BBC Final Score

Getty Images

"He [Alan Irvine] can't control it [his future], he just has to live with the decision of the chairman. I have to say, the way they are playing at the moment does not fill you with a lot of confidence for him staying in a job. This is going to be a very difficult week between now and the start of January. I'll be surprised if Irvine sees it out."

It's end-to-end at Upton Park and Danny Welbeck flashes a shot wide for the visiting Gunners, who are desperate to put this one to bed.

Football League latest

On-loan Middlesbrough winger Emmanuel Ledesma twists, turns and then fires Rotherham 1-0 ahead at Championship bottom club Blackpool.

"You don't know what you're doing," chant the Cardiff fans as Watford go 3-1 ahead. But Bluebirds manager Russell Slade could do nothing about Adlene Guedioura's strike - it's a thumper from distance that flies into the top corner.

Dion Dublin

BBC Final Score

"He (Kone) just seems to ghost into the box unmarked. It is a cross into an area where you expect a forward to be. It is a good finish."

Reuters

Manchester City react to Burnley's pressure by getting rid of this false-nine malarky and bringing on a striker.

Stevan Jovetic replaces James Milner.

GOAL

Reuters

Mame Diouf is on for the matchball, but only he knows how he scored his second of the afternoon here - the striker somehow deflecting Marko Arnautovic's shot past a bemused Ben Foster to put the Potters two up. Sheer luck.

HITS THE WOODWORK

Saido Berahino is on for West Brom, who almost level from a goalmouth scramble but Gareth McAuley stabs his close-range effort on to the post.

SUBSTITUTION

A double change for Hull as they chase the game. On come Tom Ince and Abel Hernandez for David Meyler and Sone Aluko. Will that pep up the Tigers' attack?

Burnley are still in this.

Danny Ings lets fly with the laces from 25 yards and his shot is only a few feet wide with Joe Hart struggling to make up the ground.

GOAL

Getty Images

Everton take the early lead at St James' Park. Arouna Kone, who has recently returned from injury having been out for 18 months, taps in from a Seamus Coleman delivery from the wing.

Squeaky bottom time in the Leicester defence. Wes Morgan very nearly turns Robbie Brady's cross into his own net, but escapes unscathed.

Twenty-five minutes or so to go.

The man's advantage has not made much of a difference to Sunderland as yet.

Ron Vlaar had to be precise with a sliding tackle as Connor Wickham muscled his way towards goal, but the hosts are still having more of the ball.

Text us on 81111

Moe: Man City maybe catching up but remember City still got to go to Utd, Liverpool etc.

George Round: To Andrew Wright, we're only celebrating because on any other given day that would have been 3 points to Chelsea. As a Saints fan I'm very happy to a point against the league leaders. We hardly got out of our half.

David Newland: Good point for Southampton. Shows the character of the team these days. Not just rolling over and giving in.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

CLOSE!

West Ham almost level. Cheikhou Kouyate's cross on the turn evades Arsenal's defence but Diafra Sakho is inches away from connecting at the far post.

KICK-OFF

The late game is under way at St James' Park.

As Dan Walker would put it, that is an absolute thronker of a shot from Leroy Fer which Julian Speroni somehow keeps out. That was travelling at some pace.

Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Etihad Stadium

"That was easily the best move of the second half for Manchester City. It was a very well-struck shot but a very good save from Tom Heaton to tip it wide."

Listen to full 90 minute commentary.

GREAT SAVE!

Tom Heaton had to be sharp there. The Burnley goalkeeper flings himself left to get glove on a low Samir Nasri shot and turn the ball behind.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Aidan Mifsud: Guess Villa won't be winning fair play award this season

Tom Sharpe: Do the referees have something against Villa at the moment? That's a terrible decision.

Manchester City are still slumbering.

Passes are being misplaced with worrying regularity and Burnley almost exploit their sloppiness.

Danny Ings control lets him down at just the wrong time as he attempts to collect Ashley Barnes pass and burst in on goal.

Manager reaction

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho on Sky Sports: "I can believe Southampton defended with everything they have - with organisation, spirit and solidarity of players and the effort they fought to get the point.

"My players tried to win, especially in the second half. I can't understand such a big penalty [when Cesc Fabregas fell under the challenge of Matt Targett]. Out of nothing West Ham manager Sam Allardyce starts speaking about Chelsea players diving, then another coach and another coach. The referee changes a penalty for a yellow card.

"Same happened with Diego Costa in the game against Burnley. That I can't understand. A point is a point against a difficult team. There are doubts and doubts - a penalty like that, I will leave with that. The reality is there are penalties and penalties - this one was a huge one. Match after match coaches are telling Chelsea players are diving. I will go to the referee and wish him a good year and tell him he will be ashamed."

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St Mary's

"The huge roar from Southampton's fans at the final whistle told the tale - it was a tribute to the superb resilience, energy, discipline and organisation they showed in surviving Chelsea's second half pressure.

"As for Chelsea, manager Jose Mourinho will know they failed to work Southampton keeper Fraser Forster sufficiently for all their possession, but Chelsea can have real grounds for complaint after referee Antony Taylor turned down their penalty appeals when Cesc Fabregas was challenged by Matt Targett.

"It is a result that will be well received at Manchester City though."

Garth Crooks

BBC Final Score

"Tomkins gets to the byline and puts in a great cross. It takes a deflection off an Arsenal head on the way to goal but it is definitely Kouyate's goal. That is game on now."

Leicester have made a change up front. Leo Ulloa gives way with Chris Wood on in his place.

Lights out , play on

Where's that fusebox?

Half of the floodlight and the electric scoreboard have all gone on the blink at the KC Stadium. Steve Bruce and Nigel Pearson are both digging the mood lighting though and tell the fourth official that they are happy to continue.

GOAL

Can West Ham claw themselves back into this one? There is hope for them now, as Cheikhou Kouyate heads home a scrappy goal from James Tomkins' cross. Game on.

PA

A what-happened-next moment to forget for Crystal Palace winger Yannick Bolasie, who shanks a corner and sees it trundle out of play at the near post. One for Sue Barker and Co to chortle over next Christmas. Bolasie tries to make amends moments later, but rolls a 25-yard shot harmlessly wide.

Meanwhile, there's a close-up shot of a fan in the Loftus Road stand who appears to have spilled his half-time tea all down himself. Luckily, he can see the funny side.

RED CARD - Aston Villa's Fabian Delph

Getty Images

Is Fabian Delph's reputation beginning to precede him?

The Aston Villa man snaps into a tackle on Jordi Gomez, catching the Spaniard on the ankle with his upturned studs.

It is late, it is definitely a yellow, but a red? Martin Atkinson though decides it a dismissal and the hosts are down to ten.

Garth Crooks

BBC Final Score

"If George Boyd touches it he is offside. But I'm not convinced that he did. At that point, City were outnumbered in the box four to three which is very unusual. Burnley are rewarded for it."

GOAL

It's happening again to West Brom. They had the better of the first half, but they are now behind to Stoke. A visionary pass forward by Bojan picks out Erik Pieters on the left. The full-back delivers a low cross which Mame Diouf collects and turns past Ben Foster via Joleon Lescott's slight deflection. The Baggies just can't catch a break.

Reuters

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Andrew Wright: Southampton celebrating like they've won the league. Pathetic.

Paul Moore: City are going to win this title. Chelsea keep slipping up but City keep getting the results. Champions class showing through.

Chippi: If Chelsea don't win the league... Us Liverpool fans will be on hand to remind Chelsea of Costa's slip.

Chelsea reaction: "The ref won't sleep well tonight"

Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas on his yellow card for diving: "There was definitely contact, the referee didn't have the best game of his life and I don't think he will sleep that well tonight, he had an awful game."

Getty Images

GOAL

Getty Images

City have sleepwalked into the second half, needlessly giving away a couple of corners and now a goal.

Danny Ings stands up Pablo Zabaleta, darts left and fires low across goal. George Boyd gambles, bursts into the centre, and gets a crucial touch to guide the ball past Joe Hart.

He looks like he is offside on further inspection but the flag stays down.

QPR are better in the second half and Leroy Fer lashes an unstoppable shot towards goal which goes just wide.

Text us on 81111

Andrew, Richhill: Are Chelsea struggling away from home? 1-1 draws at Manchester City, Manchester United, Southampton a 0-0 draw at Sunderland and a 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United. A chink in the armour?

Alan, Devon: One shot on target all game from Chelsea - time to stop all the sycophantic praise. Let's see how they would cope with half a dozen injuries for the rest of the season. Utd will hunt them down!

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

SUBSTITUTION

Nikica Jelavic is just stretching off on the KC Stadium sidelines. He is on in place of Gaston Ramirez, who was particularly ineffective in the first half.

MOTD's Steve Bower at St James' Park

"What a difference a year makes - last season this was a clash of two upwardly-mobile sides in touching distance of the Champions League spots.

"This time round, given the recent poor runs of both these teams, this game has taken on a real added importance."

KICK-OFF

Right then. Two games down, six more are about to enter the second half with one to come at 16:15 GMT. Let's keep this train chugging.

Opta

An instantly forgettable first half at Villa Park. Play parked firmly in the centre third.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Ben Hoare: Why are loads of people getting on Pardew's back? They were calling him a brilliant boss only a month ago when he was winning!

Tony Stewart: Never known such fickle from any fans other than Newcastle about Pardew. Fans want him out, he produces miracles like Moses.

Ross P Martell: If Pardew goes to Palace I genuinely pity whoever takes over at Newcastle with some of the fans they have.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Barry Rose: Can we just call off second half and put us out of our misery now with a 0-0? This #avfc #safc is a borefest

FULL-TIME

Two points dropped by Chelsea? Jose Mourinho will certainly think so. If Manchester City complete the job against Burnley, they will go within a point of the leaders. Hotting up.

Chelsea free-kick, 25 yards out. Glanced away by Jose Fonte.

BBC

Burnley left-back Ben Mee started his career in the Manchester City youth ranks, going on to make one first-team appearance.

He won't have enjoyed his return to his former club so far. Jesus Navas been scorching turf for City down the right and has got in behind several times.

City have been funnelling their attacks down that wing.

Football League latest

Championship leaders Bournemouth are cruising at lowly Millwall as they aim to move four points clear. Two goals in the final 15 minutes of the first half from Yann Kermogant and Harry Arter - who scores for the fifth successive match - puts them in command.

With nearest rivals Ipswich and Derby not playing today, fourth-placed Middlesbrough could pile the pressure on that pair - but they are still goalless at Blackburn.

Big turnaround at Cardiff. Watford net twice in the final few minutes, through Adlene Guedioura and Odion Ighalo, to lead 2-1 at the break. Huddersfield level for 1-1 against Bolton, while Reading and Wolves still lead against Norwich and Brentford respectively.

Text us on 81111

Chris, Woodford: Having seen the performances on Boxing Day, and so far today, this has to be the worst crop of Premier League referees ever!

Matt: About the Song disallowed goal, I think an offside player in the six-yard box should always be considered "interfering with play".

Peter in Gatwick: If Arsenal move up to 4th next week, how many weeks will it have been since The Big Four last shared the top 4 places in the league?

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

CLOSE!

Chelsea, for the second time in as many minutes, flash the ball across the Southampton six-yard box but Didier Drogba can't quite connect. Nervy times.

INJURY TIME

Chelsea attacking, Southampton countering. Lots of intent at St Mary's as we enter four minutes of time added on. Is there a sting in the tail?

Vote result

It's all square between QPR and Crystal Palace at the break, in a game featuring two relegation-threatened sides.

We've been asking you whether anyone can save Palace from the drop following the sacking of Neil Warnock, and 53.4% of you believe they do have a chance of avoiding the drop.

Thanks for voting.

BBC

MOTD's John Roder at Villa Park

"Plenty to work on for both managers in the half-time team talk, neither Paul Lambert's team nor Gus Poyet's team have threatened to take the lead in a lacklustre first half."

MOTD's Steve Wilson at Etihad Stadium

"Burnley have had their chances early in the game but nearly crumbled after Fernandinho's goal. They make it to the break just about within touching distance of the champions."

RED CARD

Southampton down to 10 men, Morgan Schneiderlin picking up a second yellow card. Not sure what for, but Chelsea have brought on Loic Remy for the final two minutes.

What's going on here then? There's a fella down on one knee. There's an enagagement ring. There's a lady in tears. There's a yes. There's cheers.

MOTD's Dan O'Hagan at the KC Stadium

"Hull have been a long way from their best to be quite frank. They have been woefully inept in terms of attacking. The bottom team Leicester have been the better team so far. It is a happy return for Hull so far for the former Tigers manager Nigel Pearson."

HALF-TIME

MOTD's John Motson at Upton Park

"A few boos from West Ham fans as they feel a big mugged. The boos were for the referee Neil Swarbrick, I don't think they agreed with the disallowed goal or the penalty."

HALF-TIME

HALF-TIME

WHAT A MISS!

Oh my! Stephen Quinn's cross is an absolute peach, curling in from the left flank to drop perfectly on Hull team-mate Ahmed Elmohamady's instep.

The Egypt midfielder's finish though is an absolute eyesore, screwing wide and high.

A let-off for the Foxes.

Southampton win a corner. Five minutes left. Swung in but it's headed clear to Toby Alderweireld on the edge of the box and the Belgian skies his effort.

HALF-TIME

What an end to the half as Alexis Sanchez has a shot deflected inches wide of goal. Both sides look full of goals. A few boos from the home fans greet the half-time whistle.

HALF-TIME

Not a classic at the Brit.

HALF-TIME

MOTD's Guy Mowbray at Loftus Road

"It's not exactly been a sparkling spectacle, but I'd think Crystal Palace caretaker-boss Keith Millen will be very happy. Millen said Palace would get back to basics, and they have. Jason Puncheon hit the post for Palace, and that's about it, really."

Dion Dublin

BBC Final Score

"West Ham have played OK but Arsenal have used the ball that little bit better. Welbeck's movement was excellent. He goes in front of the defender and then back behind him to receive the cross from Oxlade-Chamberlain."

Golden opportunity for West Ham to get back into the game before half-time but Stewart Downing drags a shot wide from the edge of the penalty area.

Pablo Zabaleta has copped a nasty one from team-mate Eliaquim Mangala here.

In their rush to clear a bouncing ball in the City box, the pair came crunching together with Mangala heading both ball and Zabaleta's bonce.

Zabaleta is wrapped up in a head bandage and looks like he is ok to continue.

Three minutes of injury-time to play.

Text us on 81111

David in Smethwick: Palace may avoid relegation. but West Brom don't deserve to. Poor management at The Hawthorns starting at the top.

Kev, Newcastle: I think Alan Pardew is the man to keep Palace in the Premier League.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Football League latest

Only two more goals to report from League One since our earlier update (see 15:25). On-loan Fulham striker Matt Smith puts leaders Bristol City ahead at Gillingham, while Josh Morris doubles Fleetwood's advantage to 2-0 at Rochdale. Walsall also lead at MK Dons, with the other six matches still goalless.

Thankfully League Two is a little livelier. Tom Pett causes some heartbreak for Cambridge as Stevenage nudge 2-1 ahead, moments before Dean Parratt adds a third. Kayode Odejayi sticks second-bottom Tranmere in front against fellow strugglers Northampton, while Ryan Taylor levels for mid-table Portsmouth at high-flying Luton.

It's like the closing stage of a cup game now. Thibaut Courtois is playing as a sweeper-keeper, and Chelsea are anxiously looking for that one opening. Southampton soaking up the punches for now, though.

GOAL

Reuters

This game has changed in the space of three minutes. Brilliant by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on the right and his low cross is prodded home from close range by Danny Welbeck. The home fans are stunned.

YELLOW CARD

Fernando can plan a bigger New Year's Eve.

The Manchester City midfielder clobbers Scott Arfield to earn himself his fifth booking of the season. He will miss the game against Sunderland on 1 January.

Palace, in yellow, are the slightly better of two average teams this afternoon and Wilfried Zaha bends a shot just wide of the far post. This is another contender for wooden spoon in the Match of the Day running order.

For all of the impressive play from both sides today, we've only had two shots on target in the entire match. And two goals. Into the final 10 minutes at St Mary's now.

Five to go

Burnley could do with the half-time whistle. They have expended huge amounts of energy on defensive donkeywork and are lagging and sagging.

They have five minutes until Kevin Friend sends them down the tunnel for oranges.

GOAL

Getty Images

Santi Cazorla sends goalkeeper Adrian the wrong way to put Arsenal ahead. The Hammers are furious with the penalty appeal but Reid looks to have raised his leg and made contact with Cazorla. Not sure they can have many complaints.

What is it with the Chelsea players slipping in the Southampton penalty area? This time Diego Costa goes to ground when clean through on goal. James Ward-Prowse is relieved because it was his mistake which led to the chance.

PENALTY TO ARSENAL

Santi Cazorla goes down under the challenge of Winston Reid's tackle and the referee points to the spot.

It looks like the entire match report from Villa Park might fit in one tweet.

Really not a lot going on, with a Charles N'Zogbia shot straight into the gloves of Costel Pantilimon one of the very few highlights.

CLOSE!

West Ham should be ahead. James Tomkins is in yards of space but volleys over the bar from 12 yards with just the goalkeeper to beat. Arsenal are lucky to be level.

SUBSTITUTION

Didier Drogba is summoned from the bench by Jose Mourinho, to replace John Mikel Obi. Chelsea have 15 minutes to find a winner.

Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Etihad Stadium

Getty Images

"It was a beautiful combination of players there more than anything else. It was a wonderful shot and the goalkeeper had no chance, there was nothing anyone could do to stop it."

Listen to full 90 minute commentary.

Garth Crooks

BBC Final Score

"It is a fabulous strike right into the top corner. The keeper has no chance. It is really important for City to nail this four or five or six because I think the title could well come down to goal difference."

West Brom continue to look the better side and Chris Brunt curls a long-range shot just wide.

YELLOW CARD

A bit of a lull in the action at the moment as the cameras show James Corden singing along to West Ham's 'Im forever blowing bubbles' song.

Andy Carroll is booked for the Hammers for arm in Mathieu Debuchy's face.

QPR look a little disjointed this afternoon and Junior Hoilett should do better when he runs down the left but punts his cross out of play. Getting the basics wrong is worrying for Harry's boys.

Getty Images

Football League latest

Steve Clarke is still searching for his first win as Reading boss and the Royals are ahead against visitors Norwich. Hal Robson-Kanu strikes confidently from the penalty spot.

Cardiff also lead 1-0 against Watford in the Welsh capital, with Adam Le Fondre notching the opener. No breakthrough yet for leaders Bournemouth at Millwall, nor for third-placed Middlesbrough at Blackburn.

Rotherham are dominating at Blackpool, but have wasted a golden chance to take the lead. On-loan striker Tom Lawrence sees his penalty saved by home keeper Joe Lewis.

GOAL

PA

The hosts are playing with so much patience around the Burnley box. This time it is Samir Nasri who waits and waits before eventually rolling a pass back to Fernandinho.

From the edge of the 'D' the Brazilian produces a superb curling shot that bounces in off the underside of the bar.

That is his first goal of the season.

GOAL

Getty Images

This could be a massive goal for the bottom club.

Leicester take the lead away to Hull as David Nugent scampers towards the Hull box, the ball breaks to Riyad Mahrez and the Foxes midfielder cuts inside his man and find the bottom corner with a low 20-yarder.

There is a suggestion that the ball may have taken a crucial nick off Nugent on its way into the net. Nigel Pearson won't care either way.

Burnley have caused a few palpitations at the back for Manchester City when they come forward. Michael Keane heads over on the stretch at the back post in the Clarets' latest venture forward.

City's defence may be lacking the leadership of the injured Vincent Kompany.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Asac Boyler: As an NUFC fan, I'd happily carry Alan Pardew to Crystal Palace, even if I had to walk on my hands to get there.

Chelsea are motoring now and Cesc Fabregas gets in behind the Southampton defence but slips just as he was about to put a ball into the six-yard box. Saints are on the ropes. Around 20 minutes left.

Both teams are still tip-toeing across the tightrope at the KC. Both know that, come the end of the season count-up, a defeat here could be particularly costly.

Hull have had the best of the half chances and Ben Hamer has to be alert in the Foxes goal to keep out David Myler's fierce 25-yard drive.

MOTD's Guy Mowbray at Loftus Road

"QPR need to rouse themselves a little. Palace look the more creative team so far and have kept the ball a lot better."

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St Mary's

"Southampton manager Ronald Koeman has made changes in an attempt to stem a spell of Chelsea domination as James Ward-Prowse and Florin Gardos replace Dusan Tadic and Maya Yoshida - but the league leaders are really stepping on the gas now.

"And Chelsea's fans, sensing their side have finally taken control, are making themselves heard while Southampton's supporters are subdued. Suspect Mr. Mourinho may have had a word at half-time."

SUBSTITUTION

Liam Bridcutt has come off on the wrong end of a physical challenge with Christian Benteke. Who wouldn't?

The Sunderland anchorman has to be replaced. Fortunately Gus Poyet has just the man. Lee Cattermole is into the fray.

Getty Images

West Brom are just about edging this cagey affair. It's about time the Baggies made any sort of advantage count after recent results where they have played well but not got the points they deserved.

Team news

Newcastle make three changes with defender Mike Williamson, defensive midfielder Cheick Tiote and striker Papiss Cisse in for Steven Taylor, Vurnon Anita and Adam Armstrong.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez makes seven changes to the side that lost at home to Stoke on Boxing Day. Keeper Joel Robles, Sylvain Distin, Antolin Alcaraz, Luke Garbutt, Aiden McGeady, Samuel Eto'o and Arouna Kone all come into the starting XI.

Newcastle XI: Alnwick; Janmaat, Coloccini, Williamson, Dummett, Perez, Sissoko, Tiote, Colback, Gouffran, Cisse.

Everton XI: Joel, Coleman, Distin, Alcaraz, Garbutt, Baines, Barry, McCarthy, McGeady, Eto'o, Kone.

Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at Etihad Stadium

"It was a good move which caught out Burnley. When the ball was pulled back it was the turn by Silva which caught out the defenders before a great finish."

Listen to full 90 minute commentary.

A good spell of pressure from Arsenal as Alexis Sanchez has a shot deflected wide before Santi Cazorla has a low shot blocked.

Dion Dublin

BBC Final Score

"It is a great goal. It is Nasri, Navas and then Silva, who receives the ball with his back to goal, turns and strikes. He has been the catalyst so far in this match as he has been for the last three or four games."

Football League latest

Very quiet in League One - only two goals to tell you about. Walsall are leading at promotion-chasing MK Dons through Darren Potter's early own goal, while Rochdale are losing to north-west rivals Fleetwood.

AFC Wimbledon have a big date against Liverpool in the FA Cup na wekk on Monday - and they are warming up nicely. Matt Tubbs puts them ahead against League Two rivals Exeter. Luton and Plymouth also hold early home leads against Portsmouth and Oxford, while Newport and Morecambe are 1-0 up at Cheltenham and Hartlepool respectively.

Text us on 81111

Ruairi in Putney: Unbelievable that decision! A clear penalty! Ref uses a petty reputation that Chelsea have built up and book him. Disgraceful! Chelsea players aren't allowed fouls now as they'll just get booked... such weak refereeing; just trying to make a point.

Jack, Norwich: Definitely a dive there. Fabregas puts his right leg into Targett, trying to win a penalty. Ivanovic, Cahill, Luis, Fabregas, Hazard and Costa are all divers. Chelsea are a disgrace. How can Mourinho defend them?

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

CLOSE!

In difficult circumstances, Crystal Palace are making a decent fight of it at Loftus Road, and they should be in front. Joe Ledley and James McArthur combine well on the edge of the area to set up Jason Puncheon, who curls a 20-yard beauty against the post with Rob Green beaten.

GOAL

Reuters

More craft and artistry than Tony Hart and Morph.

City string together a lovely move to pick apart the tightly packed ranks of Burnley defenders.

Samir Nasri weights up his options, flicks a pass to an onrushing Jesus Navas, who pulls it back to David Silva. The Spaniard controls, spins and dispatches a low shot past Tom Heaton. Burnley are up against it now...

CLOSE!

Eden Hazard is pulling the Southampton defence to bits now and the Belgian drags a low shot just wide after turning smartly in the area.

Garth Crooks

BBC Final Score

"For the last two or three games we have seen Chelsea players going to ground very easily. Here we see a classic case where Cesc Fabregas is in the box and genuinely gets tripped. I wonder if what has happened over recent weeks means the referee isn't interested? It is a stonewall penalty."

Garth is referring to an incident where Cesc Fabregas went down in the area under Matt Targett's challenge. Fabregas was booked for dissent.

Jimmy Armfield

BBC Radio 5 live at the Etihad Stadium

"At times the positional play of the Manchester City defence leaves a lot to be desired. It was just out of the reach of Barnes otherwise Burnley could have been one up, so just a little reminder there for City."

Listen to full 90 minute commentary.

Andy Carroll shows his strength inside Arsenal's penalty area as he shrugs off Mathieu Debuchy before drilling a low shot towards goal, which is blocked by Laurent Koscielny.

Burnley put together their best passage of play so far and very nearly have something to show for it.

Kieran Trippier flips in a delicious floated ball into the box and Ashley Barnes on the stretch is a stud's length away from a touch that would have had Joe Hart in trouble.

Dean Marney gets a decent snap-shot away from the edge of the box a minute later which Hart grips onto, before Danny Ings wallops over the top from further out.

A little period of pressure that totally bucks the trend set in the opening 15 minutes.

Dion Dublin

BBC Final Score

"City have had a couple of good chances. But it looks like forwards against defence. City are pressing and Burnley are holding well at the moment."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Conor McGeekin: Mikel stays on. Unbelievable how Jose can think he's got enough quality for Chelsea's first team

Mwatekowa: I don't fancy Willian's end product but his work rate is on point. Looking at Schurrle I'd take work rate over end product any day

Felix Thompson: A touch late, but if Pardew wants to give the faithful a Christmas prezzie and head off to palace, we'd be much obliged...

Football League latest

Bolton are flying under new boss Neil Lennon, winning five of their eight matches to shoot up the Championship table. And the Trotters need just 41 seconds to go ahead at Huddersfield. Darren Pratley thumps in a half volley off the underside of the crossbar after sixth-bottom Huddersfield fail to clear their lines.

Wolves are hosting Brentford in a battle between two sides who were promoted from League One last season. First blood to the home side as Nouha Dicko prods in with the outside of his boot.

Nothing to report in the other five second-tier matches - they are all goalless after 15 minutes.

West Ham striker Diafra Sakho shoots weakly at goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny after Per Mertesacker gifts him the ball 30 yards out. Still the Hammers on top.

Latest scores

Here's how things stand after 20 minutes in the 15:00 GMT kick-offs. Southampton v Chelsea, remember, got under way at 14:05 GMT, so into the second half in that one.

BBC

West Brom striker Brown Ideye again gets through on goal, and again he misses. This time his tame shot is meat and drink for Asmir Begovic.

Chelsea going through the gears and Southampton desperately get bodies in the way of two Willian shots. Around 35 minutes left in this one. Meanwhile, Cesc Fabregas is booked for dissent.

Reuters

It is still very quiet on the north-eastern front. Leicester and Hull are still shadow-boxing round each other at the KC Stadium. Plenty of perspiration, but no sign of any inspiration as yet.

PA

It's all a bit lop-sided from Crystal Palace, who seem to be relying heavily on Yannick Bolasie down the left. At the other end, Charlie Austin drills in a low shot which the keeper deals with easily.

Opta

James Milner channels his inner Gary Lineker, putting on a spurt to arrive at the near post ahead of two Burnley defenders.

That finishing is a little short of Lineker's standards though. Milner toes a half-volley clean over the top and goalkeeper Tom Heaton waves it on its way.

Stoke go close when that little magician Bojan drags a shot wide from just outside the box.

Aston Villa are getting on the ball in front of their home fans, popping passes around nicely, but to little effect. Villa have had 75% possession so far, but zero chances of note.

PA

MOTD's Jonathan Pearce at St Mary's

"Victor Wanyama has just given away a free-kick 30 yards from goal. That's the difference between him and Morgan Schneiderlin, who tends not to foul in those areas."

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce promised his side would have a go at Arsenal this afternoon and his players are backing up his words in a lively start. Arsenal need to get hold of the ball.

AFP/GETTY

It is already looking like a training drill at the Etihad. Ten attackers against 11 defenders packed into the Burnley half of the pitch. Kieran Trippier heads a Jesus Navas cross behind for a corner.

This is one match where a lanky targetman like the injured Edin Dzeko might have been useful for City.

PENALTY APPEAL

Stoke's Glenn Whelan hits the deck in the penalty box under a challenge from Craig Gardner but referee Roger East, who is yet to award a spot kick this season, waves play on. Gardner may have just glanced the toe of Whelan.

KICK-OFF

We're back under way at St Mary's, where Chelsea have brought on Willian for Andre Schurrle. This game kicked off at 14:05 GMT, remember.

The first glimmer of a chance for Manchester City, and it probably fell to exactly the wrong man. Martin Demichelis smacks a far post volley straight into Burnley defender Jason Shackell with the goal yawning five yards in front of him.

City have started well. There will be plenty more chances where that came from.

Wilfried Zaha appears to be playing as a false nine for Palace today. Caretaker boss Keith Millen is across all of the key fashions in football, it seems.

DISALLOWED GOAL

Alex Song thinks he has put West Ham ahead with a 20-yard volley into the bottom corner of the net. The linesman's flag is up for offside against Diafra Sakho though. Song and manager Sam Allardyce look confused.

Leicester and Hull are cancelling each other out so far at the KC. Nip and tuck. Only the scoreline matters today, no points for style.

Player reaction

Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata: Not the result we wanted... But White Hart Lane is always a difficult stadium. Thanks for your support!

Getty Images

All the play is in the centre of midfield early on at Loftus Road. We're not going to say this is a six-pointer, but...

Connor Wickham with the first shot in anger at Villa Park. The Sunderland striker's effort from the fringes of the box, catches a hefty deflection and loops wide for an early Black Cats corner.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Tim Arstall: Dare I say Eden Hazard is the best dribbler in world football? Definitely comparable to Messi with his flicks and control

Firas: Absolute brilliance from Hazard just when we needed it most. Another Fabregas assist to add to it!

Kuntal Majumdar: Hazard. A special, special player!!!

James Milner is continuing his experimental stint up front for Manchester City. He will have his work cut out to find some space today.

Burnley have already packed nine outfield players behind the ball in the opening stages.

Text us on 81111

Andy: Incredible from Eden Hazard! Perfect time to score as well from a Chelsea perspective and another obligatory assist from the Assist-King Cesc Fabregas!

Jen: Cesc Fabregas now has more assists (13) this season than Jack Wilshire (12) has in his entire career! Amazing.

James: I can't see Chelsea being as awful in the second half. Southampton needed to take advantage whilst they were on top.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

An early chance for West Brom when Brown Ideye races through, but the striker blazes his effort well over the bar. Poor.

Vote

After Neil Warnock was sacked on Saturday, we want to know whether you think anyone can save Crystal Palace from relegation?

Have your say by voting at the top of this page or or by tweeting #yes or #no to @bbcsport.

Voting will close at 15:45 GMT and the results will be announced shortly afterwards. Terms and conditions can be found here.

Garth Crooks

BBC Final Score

BBC MOTD commentator Guy Mowbray, who is at Loftus Road for QPR v Crystal Palace, has reported that some bookies have stopped taking bets on Newcastle boss Alan Pardew replacing the recently sacked Neil Warnock as Palace boss. Here is Garth Crooks' reaction...

"This is not speculation, this is fact. The bookies have stopped taking bets on Alan Pardew to Palace. So somebody has put a lot of money on it. There are a number of factors to consider here. If he does go there and Palace go down he is arguably just the right man to bring them back up. Perhaps after what he has been through at Newcastle he wants to stick two fingers up at the owner."

KICK-OFF

We are alive and kicking in today's 15:00 GMT kick-offs...

Nigel Pearson is getting up close and personal. The Leicester manager is down on the touchline rather than in the stands today at the KC...

Elsewhere Manchester City's players have sprinted away from the pre-match handshakes and into position ahead of their meeting with Burnley.

The 15:00 GMT kick-offs are almost upon us...

Southampton have been here before.

Level at half-time after out-playing Manchester United at St Mary's on 8 December, the Saints ended up going down 2-1.

Can Ronald Koeman find the magic words top ensure they make the pressure count after the break?

Vote result

Chelsea might be enduring a testing afternoon at Southampton, but the majority of you still expect them to win the title this season, with 72.2% of voters saying they will be celebrating come May.

BBC

Thanks for voting.

HALF-TIME

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St Mary's

"Chelsea have been struggling and sloppy but when you have special players in your side they can lift you out of your slumbers - and that is exactly what Eden Hazard did with his equaliser. Bitter blow for Southampton, who had played so well."

Former Southampton manager Dave Merrington on BBC Radio Solent: "Well that is a class individual goal. It's a bad time to give a goal away but this game has had everything so far, it's been great."

GOAL

Superb stuff from Chelsea. Absolutely superb. Cesc Fabregas plays an exquisite pass forward to Eden Hazard - the ball spinning and landing perfectly at the feet of the Belgian - and the forward cuts inside two players and then rolls a shot across the goalkeeper and into the bottom corner. Precision. Parity.

Getty Images

Text us on 81111

Josh: This game highlights the importance of Oscar and Willian in the high press game. Schurrle and Fabregas can't play defensively as high up the pitch.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Southampton know they are doing something right when Diego Costa is having so many touches outside of the box...

opta

Dion Dublin

BBC Final Score

"I think he (City boss Manuel Pellegrini) is happy to be in the shadow of Jose Mourinho at the moment. City are getting result sand staying in touch with Chelsea. He just wants his team to do their job to their best. Milner has been one of the shining lights of the Premier League so far."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Jay: [re: 1440] In short Chelsea are like Alastair Cook and Southampton are like Jimmy Anderson?

Something like that, Jay.

Five minutes before half-time and Didier Drogba is warming up on the touchline. Time to let the Drog out?

PA

The moment Chelsea get the ball, it looks like Southampton have got 12 players out there. Maybe that's what Ronald Koeman has done? He's certainly effected something which has knocked the Blues out of their usual stride.

Player reaction

Tottenham winger Nacer Chadli: Not the way I wanted to end 2014, but we'll have to be happy with one point today. Enjoy your Sunday!

Team news

Stoke City boss Mark Hughes makes one change to the side that beat Everton 1-0 on Boxing Day, with Peter Crouch in for Jon Walters.

Visitors West Brom make four changes to the side that lost 3-1 to Manchester City, with Graham Dorrans, Chris Baird, Chris Brunt and Brown Ideye in for Sebastien Pocognoli, Youssuf Mulumbu, Silvestre Varela and Saido Berahino.

Stoke starting XI: Begovic, Cameron, Shawcross, Muniesa, Pieters, Nzonzi, Whelan, Arnautovic, Bojan, Diouf, Crouch.

West Brom starting XI: Foster, Wisdom, McAuley, Lescott, Baird, Gardner, Morrison, Sessegnon, Dorrans, Brunt, Ideye.

@MCFC

Manchester City on Twitter: A few last-minute stretches in the tunnel before pre-match drills begin for the lads.

If Chelsea were a cricketer, they'd be a scratchy opening batsman at present - they can't quite seem to get going. Southampton? They're the classy opening bowler who dominates with the new ball. Foxing their opponents with their gameplan.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St Mary's

"Southampton are working so hard to deny Chelsea space and so far goalkeeper Fraser Forster has been well protected. Cesc Fabregas has shown some superb footwork but on more than one occasion he has been unable to release the ball because Southampton's work-rate in constantly reducing the options available."

Getty Images

Analysis

Dion Dublin

BBC Final Score

"United had four good opportunities to score today. You can't afford to drop points when you have so many good chances and that is what they did today."

Former Southampton manager Dave Merrington on BBC Radio Solent: "It's an absolute cracker and Southampton are looking every bit as good as Chelsea this afternoon. I think they have been absolutely superb today, every player is up for this one and Chelsea have got a really tough game ahead."

Garth Crooks

BBC Sport pundit on Final Score

"It is very early days. There is a lot of football left to play. On the evidence of what I've seen so far, Southampton have started this game in the same vein that saw them demolish Crystal Palace. Nathaniel Clyne recently told me that Ronald Koeman has a way of instilling belief in his players to make them believe they can beat anyone and that certainly looks to be the case today."

Chelsea try to pass their way through, but they continually run into a red and white coloured cul-de-sac. Southampton are well organised - to the extent that Chelsea have not had a single shot on goal in the first 30 minutes.

Shrewsbury will look to cement their place at the top of the League Two table when they host second-placed Wycombe. The Shrews are only ahead by a plus-one goal difference and the Chairboys head into the clash at Greenhous Meadow unbeaten in their last five league games.

Burton Albion, who are level with the top two on 43 points, can capitalise on any slip up with victory at 13th placed Accrington Stanley, but may have to do so without leading scorer Alex MacDonald, who has a knee problem.

At the bottom, 23rd-placed Tranmere can avoid being cut adrift in the relegation zone if they can secure only their fifth win of the season when they welcome 19th-placed Northampton Town to Prenton Park. The visitors have striker Ivan Toney, who has seven goals for the season, suspended for the trip up north.

Interim boss Dean Saunders will take charge of Crawley for the trip to fellow strugglers Colchester United after John Gregory stepped down to undergo major open heart surgery. Crawley are 21st in League One having won just five games this term but can welcome back top scorer Izale McLeod against a side second from bottom in the league and without a home win since October.

At the top, leaders Bristol City travel to 18th-placed Gillingham having lost two of their last three games away from home. The Gills beat Colchester 2-1 on Boxing Day but have lost match-winning goalscorer Bradley Dack to a hamstring injury.

Meanwhile, Bradford boss Phil Parkinson will be seeking to extend his side's unbeaten run to eight games in all competitions to cement fifth place with victory over eight-placed Notts County, who were beaten 1-0 at home by MK Dons on Boxing Day.

Bournemouth can extend their lead at the top of the Championship with an away victory over a Millwall side that were beaten 6-1 at Norwich on Boxing Day. The Lions are on a poor run of form having won only one of their last nine games, while Eddie Howe's Bournemouth have won 10 of their last 13 games in the Championship - cruising to a 6-1 victory at Blackpool in their last away fixture.

With Ipswich and Derby not in action until Tuesday, it is up to fourth-placed Middlesbrough to keep the pressure on the Cherries. Aitor Karanka's side head into Sunday's clash with eighth-placed Blackburn off the back of a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest but Rovers have a good record at home, winning four of their last five games at Ewood Park.

Elsewhere, Norwich head to Reading looking to avenge their 2-1 defeat at Carrow Road in November, when they were booed off by their fans. However, Neil Adams' side have hit form since then, taking 10 points from the 12 available, and could move back into the top six with victory at a Reading side languishing in 17th place.

Eden Hazard and Cesc Fabregas appear to have switched their focus to attacking down the Chelsea right. A small victory for Saints right-back Toby Alderweireld?

Four points clear with more than half the season gone. That will be Bournemouth's situation at the top of the Championship if they beat Millwall away today.

Time to take them seriously as prospective Premier League players?

This is how the lower divisions are looking today...

Getty Images

We're 25 minutes in and the stats say Chelsea are the better team. The scoreline says something else.

Opta

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Al Mamun Russell: Chelsea are not invincible. Newcastle have already proved it. But Mourinho will surely work out something during the break.

Rob Millward: John Obi Mikel losing it yet again. When will Jose learn he is nowhere near Chelsea quality?

Scotty: Southampton win, Arsenal win and the top of the league gets a little tighter!

"There's only one Ronald Koeman," sing the Southampton fans. The Saints manager responds with a small clap of acknowledgement. All very pleasant.

@sunderlandafc

Sunderland on Twitter: Connor Wickham heads straight back into the starting XI v Aston Villa this afternoon #hawaythelads

Text us on 81111

Sheelagh: Where are all the people saying that John Terry is as good as he was 10 years ago now? He's just been shown for what he really is, slow.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

BBC Final Score

Final Score is getting under way now at the top of this page and on the Red Button. Host Jason Mohammad is joined by analyst Garth Crooks and former Aston Villa forward Dion Dublin as they bring you the latest scores from Sunday's Premier League and Football League fixtures.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St Mary's

"Sadio Mane's pace has already proved a nuisance for Chelsea's defence and he was quick enough to get away from John Terry then show composure to beat Thibaut Courtois. Southampton clearly feel they can get joy in behind Chelsea's defence and that was exactly what manager Ronald Koeman would have been looking for."

I wonder if the Manchester City players know the score from St Mary's as they warm up for their game against Burnley? There's always one fella with a wireless attached to the side of his face in every football ground isn't there? Or even better, somebody with the BBC live text glued to their thumb!

Andreas Weimann replaces the suspended Gabriel Agbonlahor while Charles N'Zogbia comes in for Jores Okore as Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert selects an attacking line-up.

Connor Wickham returns for Sunderland after serving his suspension and is one of three changes to the Black Cats team which lost to Hull. Wes Brown and Liam Bridcutt are called upon in an attempt to add some steel to the defence.

Aston Villa XI: Guzan, Hutton, Vlaar, Clark, Cissokho, Cleverley, Sanchez, Delph, Weimann, Benteke, N'Zogbia.

Sunderland XI: Pantilimon, Vergini, O'Shea, Brown, Jones, Bridcutt, Johnson, Larsson, Gomez, Wickham, Fletcher.

Former Southampton manager Dave Merrington on BBC Radio Solent

"Saints are a different side when they get in behind people with their pace. Mane has finished one on one with the goalkeeper and taken it very coolly."

GOAL

Southampton have not dropped a single point when they've taken the lead this season, which is bad news for Chelsea who go behind when Dusan Tadic flicks the ball through for Sadio Mane to race clear of John Terry - who had stepped up hoping to play the offside trap - and the Saints striker clinically finishes past Thibaut Courtois. Game on.

Getty Images

Crystal Palace caretaker manager Keith Millen: "It's been a busy 24 hours. I went into the training ground on Saturday morning and got a phone call from the chairman who said he'd spoken with Neil Warnock that morning and had asked if I would take the team for today's game. It was that quick, really.

"I spoke to the players before training and said the main thing is we focus on today. In a way, it's a good thing we've only had one day to prepare for the game, as it means we've had no time to dwell on the past.

"It's not nice the situation that we're in - it's happened too many times but we've been in it before and we know what we're about. We know what we're good at."

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St Mary's

"Chelsea starting to ramp up the pressure here. The presence of Jon Obi Mikel and Nemanja Matic is giving Cesc Fabregas the platform to play further forward and he is already proving to be a threat, particularly with one slalom run into the penalty area.

"Southampton are showing composure on the ball - when they get it - but at the moment Chelsea are looking the more dangerous side."

CLOSE!

Nice from Southampton. Very nice. They win a corner which is re-directed at the far post by Sadio Mane and it takes a fine tackle from John Terry to stop Jose Fonte from bundling in from close range.

BBC Radio 5 live

West Ham co-owner David Gold speaking to BBC Radio 5 live: "It's fantastic, we have been here for five years in January and this is the first time we have been in this lofty altitude of fifth and it's great. We have spent all our time fighting relegation so it is great and it is a reward for all our hard work.

"The gap does seem to be lessening and I think, maybe not this year, but I think one of the so-called lesser teams will break into the top four and that will be great for the Premier League."

Reuters

Nothing like a good old celebrity spot and that is very much the case at Upton Park these days. Russell Brand, James Corden, Jack Whitehall and Dominic Cooper are all wandering around the VIP areas at West Ham.

AP

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Infostrada Sports: Man Utd remain unbeaten in all 6 PL matches in Dec. Last 3 seasons they remained unbeaten in Dec, they won title: 2008/09, 2010/11 & 2012/13

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Rabin: As a Gunner, I want Southampton to lose, but as a neutral I want Chelsea to lose for the drama it would give to the title chase.

Alistair Elias: The best defensive midfielders in the Premier League go head to head: Mugumbi Wanyama vs Nemanja Matic.

Frank K Mponda: Hopefully this Southampton team can stop this well oiled Chelsea team.

Former Southampton manager Dave Merrington on BBC Radio Solent

"You can see the calmness in the Chelsea players. When players are in fine form and full of confidence that is what you get."

Team news

West Ham make five changes from the side who lost to Chelsea last time out. Diafra Sakho, Alex Song, James Tomkins, Joey O'Brien and Morgan Amalfitano all return.

Arsenal make three changes from their win over QPR. Laurent Koscielny, making his first start since 3 December, Francis Coquelin and Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain come in for Kieran Gibbs, Tomas Rosicky and Olivier Giroud.

West Ham XI: Adrian, Reid, Cresswell, Tomkins, Kouyate, Carroll, Downing, Sakho, O'Brien, Amalfitano, Song

Arsenal XI: Szczesny, Debuchy, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Monreal, Flamini, Coquelin, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Cazorla, Alexis, Welbeck

Chelsea are having plenty of the ball early on and playing with a high line as they try to press Southampton back into their own half. The template is clear - go ahead, then squeeze the life out of their opponents in which time they try to nick a second. They are the Premier League's anaconda, the big predators.

Brilliant skills by Cesc Fabregas sees the Spanish midfielder jink to the byeline but the final ball doesn't match up and Saints clear the danger.

Team news

The big change for Crystal Palace this weekend has been in the dugout, with Keith Millen placed in temporary charge after Neil Warnock's sacking. Millen makes one change, bringing Wilfried Zaha into the attack for Fraizer Campbell, who has a knock. Fellow striker Dwight Gayle is out because of illness.

There are six changes for QPR as boss Harry Redknapp tries to keep his squad fresh over the Christmas programme. Richard Dunne, Clint Hill, Joey Barton, Junior Hoilett, Leroy Fer and Bobby Zamora are all recalled after being left out of the starting line-up for the defeat at Arsenal on Boxing Day.

QPR XI: Green; Isla, Caulker, Dunne, Hill; Hoilett, Barton, Henry, Fer; Austin, Zamora.

Crystal Palace XI: Speroni; Mariappa, Dann, Delaney, Ward; McArthur, Ledley, Jedinak; Bolasie, Puncheon; Zaha.

It's been a pretty sedate start to the game at St Mary's. It needs Diego Costa to flatten a Saints defender to liven things up...

@AVFCofficial

Aston Villa on Twitter: Great to see Italian goalkeeping legend Gianluca Pagliuca here to watch his beloved Villa.

It's true. Pagliuca, Italy's goalkeeper in their 1994 World Cup final defeat by Brazil, has been a Villa fan since watching them on television at the age of 14.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Pete Rowley: Is it bad for me to want #WBA to lose so we get rid of Irvine sooner rather than later?

Team news

Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini was without Yaya Toure as the Blues went looking for a club record 10 successive wins. Toure was not even on the bench as Pellegrini made three changes, bringing in Aleksandar Kolarov, Jesus Navas and Pablo Zabaleta for Gael Clichy, Toure and Bacary Sagna.

Burnley boss Sean Dyche names the same team for the fifth successive game and there was no place even on the bench for Sam Vokes, who was a substitute against Liverpool on Boxing Day after being out since March. The Clarets are looking first away win in the league against City since 1963, although they did win the Charity Shield at Maine Road in 1973.

Manchester City XI: Hart, Demichelis, Kolarov, Mangala, Zabaleta, Milner, Silva, Fernandinho, Fernando, Navas, Nasri

Burnley XI: Heaton, Arfield, Trippier, Shackell, Jones, Keane, Marney, Mee, Barnes, Boyd.

MATCH OFF

Another game bites the dust. Or should that be frost? Either way, Accrington's League Two game against Burton has been called off.

Today's postponed matches:

League One: Sheff Utd v Scunthorpe

League Two: Accrington v Burton

Conference:: AFC Telford v Gateshead, Wrexham v Forest Green

Getty Images

Remember, 19-year-old Saints left-back Matthew Targett is making his first Premier League start today in place of the ineligible Ryan Bertrand. Yet another one off the conveyer belt of talent at St Mary's.

Team news

Steve Bruce makes just one change for Hull and it is an enforced one with Jake Livermore filling in for the suspended right back James Chester.

Leicester, who are without a win in 13 matches, bring in Esteban Cambiasso and Matty James into the midfield in place of Danny Drinkwater and the injured Andy King.

Hull: McGregor; Livermore, Bruce, Davies, Rosenior; El Mohamady, Meyler, Quinn, Brady; Ramirez, Aluko.

Leicester: Hamer; Simpson, Wasilewski, Morgan, Konchesky; Mahrez, Cambiasso, James, Mahrez; Nugent, Ulloa.

KICK-OFF

Chelsea end the year how they started it - by playing Southampton. We're under way.

BreakingBreaking team news

Yaya Toure is rested by manager Manuel Pellegrini and left out of Manchester City's matchday squad entirely.

Manchester City XI: Hart, Zabaleta, Demichelis, Mangala, Kolarov, Fernandinho, Fernando, Navas, Silva, Nasri, Milner

Pleasantries are exchanged between the two managers, who were both on the coaching staff together at Barcelona. "Nice to see you again, Jose."

Getty Images

Highway to the Danger Zone, a song made famous by the film Top Gun, belts out over the St Mary's PA system as the two teams make their way onto the pitch on a crisp, sunny winter's day. Who will be Top Gun by the end of the day? Chelsea or Manchester City?

BreakingBreaking team news

Laurent Koscielny returns from injury to make his first Arsenal start since 3 December.

Arsenal XI: Szczesny, Debuchy, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Monreal, Flamini, Coquelin, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Cazorla, Alexis, Welbeck

Player reaction

Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris: "We stayed in the game because we were strong defensively and we kept fighting. We were close to a big chance and our spirit was excellent."

Text us on 81111

Pete, Lochwinnoc: Could someone tell me what's going on with Forest this season? After such a good start why have they fallen away so badly?

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

MOTD's Steve Wilson at Etihad Stadium

"On 18 August 1973, 23,000 fans turned out at Maine Road (for younger readers, City used to play there) and saw Colin Waldron score the only goal in a Burnley win against a City team including Denis Law, Mike Summerbee, Rodney Marsh, Colin Bell and Frannie Lee.

"And why I am telling you all this? Because it's the last time Burnley won an away game at Manchester City - and because it shows that sometimes weird stuff happens, which means that one day they just may do it again."

MOTD's Martin Fisher at the Britannia Stadium

"A year ago I was spoilt for goals.

"The year 2013 drew to a close for me in the commentary box at the KC Stadium where Hull City rattled in six against a hapless Fulham side who were already waving the white flag of surrender and inviting relegation.

"I'm not expecting a repeat. In fact, just one goal would represent an upgrade on recent meetings between Stoke and West Brom at the Britannia, where the last two matches between the Midlands duo have finished 0-0."

MOTD's John Roder at Villa Park

"You can read Sunderland's recent results a couple of ways depending if you are a glass half full or half empty sort of person - one win in eight, or just two defeats over the same number of matches. Their Boxing Day defeat at home to Hull was a bitter reality check after the euphoria of victory at Newcastle.

"The year as a whole has been difficult for Villa, particularly when they recorded just one win in nine at the end of last season, and went nine matches without a victory from September to earlier this month."

MOTD's Dan O'Hagan at the KC Stadium

"This is a game which could be a springboard for the Tigers - who are looking for back-to-back Premier League wins for the first time in 15 months.

"Hull surely won't get a better chance to right that statistic, given Sunday's opponents have earned just three points and four goals from nine away trips this season."

MOTD's Guy Mowbray at Loftus Road

"Win at home, lose away has been the QPR way for seven games now, and they have to be favourites to continue the trend against a Palace side that hasn't won away from Selhurst Park in six matches - and only once all season.

"A home win would extend an even more important pattern for Rangers of beating those around them near the bottom of the table. Sunderland, Villa, Burnley, Leicester and West Brom have all come to Loftus Road and lost. Adding a couple of wins away would surely make all the difference to their chances of staying up."

MOTD's John Motson at Upton Park

"The Hammers will be keen to avoid losing any momentum over the festive period, where a few poor results can see your league position come down as quickly as the Christmas decorations.

"This should be a cracking London derby played at what is sure to be packed and noisy Upton Park.

"The teams appear evenly matched and I'm expecting plenty of goals - it's just the kind of match you want to be watching over Christmas."

Before we get under way at St Mary's, however, let me pass over to the Match of the Day commentators...

Vote

BBC

Jose Mourinho has won the league every time his team have been top at Christmas - that's seven titles in four countries. But will he maintain that record and guide Chelsea to the title this season?

Vote now at the top of this page or tweet #yes or #no to @bbcsport.

The vote will close at 14:45 GMT. Terms and conditions can be found here.

Thanks Andy. Now it's time for Southampton versus Chelsea. That kicks off in 10 minutes' time, so plenty of chance to go and make a turkey sandwich. If you can still stomach the stuff...

So a disappointing end to what looked like being a tasty starter. Fear not though as we still have the main course of Premier League action to come.

Chelsea at Southampton is next up and I will pass you over to Marc Higginson. Enjoy.

FULL-TIME

Bradley Allen

former QPR forward on BBC Radio London

"This is one of the best halves of football I have seen from Tottenham all season. Considering the amount of pressure they have come under it really has been a tremendous response."

FULL-TIME

Getty Images

A game that fizzled out in the second half but United will be massively frustrated they were unable to make the most of their first-half dominance. A number of golden chances were spurned and in the end Louis van Gaal's men were holding on.

GOAL

Britt Assombalonga heads in at the far post for Forest, who deserved a goal on their second-half performance, but it's surely nothing more than a consolation for Stuart Pearce's side.

Manchester United work the ball deep into Tottenham's half as they come forward but Ashley Young's cross is well over the bar.

Tottenham look to launch another attack...

Harry Kane looks frustrated as a cross sails over his head. Into three minutes of injury time.

It is all Tottenham now as we enter the last few minutes...

A spell of concerted Tottenham pressure is finally over as United take a breath with their own goal kick.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Raman Khela: United have to win their away games to be considered serious title challengers, 2 wins out of 8 isn't good enough.

Chris Edwards: Can understand the quality dip in 2nd half majority of both team run close to 20km in under 2 days.

Conor McMeekin: Harry Kane must be begging Bale to put in a good word for him in Spain, the players around him at Spurs are woeful!

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Christian Eriksen's delivery from the right is headed over by Federico Fazio. The hosts are on top now as they get another free kick 30 yards from goal.

Manchester United clear Christian Eriksen's left-wing corner but Tottenham come again and are awarded a free kick on the right touch line. Radamel Falcao is booked for tripping Erik Lamela.

Corner to a resurgent Tottenham...

CLOSE!

So close for Tottenham. Harry Kane brilliantly holds the ball up against four Manchester United defenders. He slips it to his left, where Ryan Mason is rapidly making up ground, but the midfielder blazes over from an angle.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

The Lion: Is it wise changing 3 of your defenders when we are under the cosh anyway?

Joe Wedgwood: One of the most biased referees I've seen in a long time. Absolutely EVERY decision has gone Spurs' way.

Davis Sweeney: This second half has been another fine example of the so called "greatest league in the world".

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

SUBSTITUTION

A double change in Tottenham's midfield. Erik Lamela replaces Nacer Chadli while Moussa Dembeli comes on for Andros Townsend. Neither player made much of an impact and, with 10 minutes left, Spurs are trying something different.

Christian Eriksen's right-footed delivery is sent goalwards but David de Gea has no problems beating the ball away.

AFP/GETTY

Free kick to Tottenham 30 yards from goal...

SUBSTITUTION

Luke Shaw replaces Paddy McNair in defence for Manchester United as Louis van Gaal makes his final change. A return from injury for the England defender.

Forest have rallied after the break with Jamie Paterson shooting into the side netting after kick-off, Eric Lichaj firing over the bar and then an unmarked Robert Tesche heading inches wide. But that crucial goal remains illusive.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

KN: If MUFC are to reach City's level, we'll need to win these matches. Cos City have shown that they can. Dig deep Reds!

Sushant Shetty: The highlight of United's season has been their clinical finishing. Sadly its been below average today.

Michael Devlin: On this showing, Falcao's not gonna get the big contract.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Federico Fazio swivels inside the penalty area but his low volley is saved by a diving David de Gea.

Chris Smalling replaces Jonny Evans in the heart of Manchester United's defence.

YELLOW CARD

Paddy McNair is cautioned for a trip on Harry Kane as Chris Smalling prepares to come on.

This is scrappy stuff at the moment. Neither side can really get hold of the ball with too many passes going astray.

Getty Images

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Chelsea Warrior: This has 1-0 written all over it. Spurs smash-and-grab or United nervy win?

Chris Goodall: Looks like some of the Christmas turkeys have found their way onto the pitch. Very poor stuff since half time...

Paul Charles: 30 minutes to go in a very important game, would love to see Lennon come on & cause some trouble. Fresh legs make a difference.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

United hit back with a chance of their own. Rafael pulls the ball back to Juan Mata on the edge of the penalty area but, unmarked, he blazes horribly over.

Saints call on teenager

Ryan Bertrand, on loan at Southampton this season, is unable to play against his parent club Chelsea this afternoon and that has presented an opportunity to Saints' teenage full-back Matt Targett.

Ahead of his first Premier League start, Targett said: "I'm a bit nervous but I'm really looking forward to it.

"I got told a couple of weeks ago that Ryan couldn't play, so it's my opportunity to impress today. It will be a massive test playing against world class players, but I'm really looking forward to the challenge."

CLOSE!

Brilliant from Andros Townsend as he almost breaks the deadlock out of nothing. The England and Tottenham winger beats a couple of United midfielders before fizzing a 20-yard strike at goalkeeper David De Gea. Comfortable enough for the United stopper though.

Bradley Allen

former QPR forward on BBC Radio London

"It's getting a bit feisty here and I am really starting to enjoy it. There are more than enough potential match winners on the pitch to win this one."

This game could go either way with less than 30 minutes remaining. United have been the better side but will they rue their wastefulness?

It is still the visitors in the ascendency as Robin van Persie's weak low cross from the bye line is easy for goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. Tottenham though are at least breaking with pace in this half in an attempt to get things going.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Ross Gillespie: This is a chance for Spurs to prove how much they've improved. Can they beat a big club is the question?

Richard Stoliar: Lot of talk about De Gea being a game changer. Watch him throw one in now...

Miracle Roch: This is not the same Mata Mourinho describes as weak.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at St Mary's

"Crisp and cold at Southampton for a meeting between two teams with sights set on continuing flawless festive periods.

"Ronald Koeman's Saints have bounced back from their first indifferent spell of the season with impressive victories against Everton and at Crystal Palace, a win that ended Neil Warnock's managerial tenure at Selhurst Park.

"Chelsea, meanwhile, roll on and have won impressively at Stoke City before beating West Ham United at Stamford Bridge. They start here with a three-point advantage over reigning Premier League champions Manchester City - and Southampton will provide a tough test for Jose Mourinho's side."

MOTD's Jonathan Pearce at St Mary's

"This is an enticing fixture to ring out the old year. Southampton have rediscovered their mojo over Christmas, climbing out of the trough of five successive defeats to land back-to-back wins over Everton and Crystal Palace.

"Chelsea, meanwhile, have responded to defeat at Newcastle, their only loss in 27 games this season, with five victories on the spin.

"A Chelsea victory will see them exit 2014 looking like prospective champions and that's where I expect them to finish."

Robin van Persie volleys Juan Mata's right-wing cross over the bar from 10 yards after Michael Carrick's intelligent ball behind Tottenham's defence set United on the attack once more.

LINE-UPS

Southampton: Forster, Alderweireld, Fonte, Yoshida, Targett, Steven Davis, Wanyama, Schneiderlin, Tadic, Pelle, Mane. Subs: Kelvin Davis, Gardos, Long, Ward-Prowse, Isgrove, Reed, McCarthy.

Chelsea: Courtois, Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Luis, Mikel, Matic, Schurrle, Fabregas, Hazard, Costa. Subs: Cech, Zouma, Ramires, Drogba, Remy, Willian, Azpilicueta.

Referee: Anthony Taylor (Cheshire)

Team news

Four changes for Southampton this afternoon, with Jose Fonte, Dusan Tadic, Victor Wanyama and 19-year-old left-back Matt Targett replacing Nathaniel Clyne, Florin Gardos, Ryan Bertrand and James Ward-Prowse.

For Chelsea, all the big guns remain intact as Filipe Luis, John Mikel Obi and Andre Schurrle come in for Cesar Azpilicueta, Willian and Oscar.

Better from Tottenham and Federico Fazio almost stabs Harry Kane's low cross in from close range. The defender's effort is blocked by Phil Jones as the home fans finally have something to shout about.

YELLOW CARD

Ashley Young is shown the yellow card for upending Nacer Chadli at the halfway line.

Text us on 81111

Charchar, Cheshire: De Gea does a job, a different job to the other 10 men on the pitch. Fact is he does it better than others with the same job in a different team and people don't like that. Yes he is a game changer, that's what he gets paid for, no?

Lee, Manchester: If David De Gea does go to Madrid then the man at the other end would be a decent replacement!

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Rafael has slotted in at right wing back for United. No real disruption for the visitors.

Vote result

It might be all square at the moment, but the majority of you (59.4%) think Manchester United will edge this one in the second half.

Thanks for voting.

BBC

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Jesse Mutua: Tottenham have become the smash-and-grab team. I fancy them doing the same today. A worried Man Utd fan.

Greg Mathews: Can't blame the defence if we lose this game now, finishing has been shocking.

Laurence Ridge: Good to see Manchester United look to be getting back on top of things Looking promising! Brilliant performance by Ashley Young.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

KICK-OFF

Spurs get us under way for the second half.

SUBSTITUTION

Manchester United and Tottenham are back out at White Hart Lane. Rafael is on for Antonio Valencia for the second half.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Bhavin Shah: Considering his place was under threat in August, Juan Mata is looking awesome at the moment. Not missing Di Maria.

Saqiul Hogue: A combination of Lloris's keeping and ineffectual strikers has kept the score at 0-0.

Peter Okong'o: The transformation of Ashley Young under Van Gaal is astonishing. He is running Tottenham ragged.

Join the conversation on Twitter using #bbcfootball, send us a text on 81111 (UK only), or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook or Google+ page.

Nathaniel Clyne: Disappointed I can't be involved today big game to miss but I'll be back soon good luck to the lads today. #WeMarchOn #KeepMeInYourFantasy

Team news to come shortly.

BBC

Manchester United are ahead on all the key first-half stats apart from the one that matters - goals scored. To be fair, the visitors have hit the target with five of their six shots on goal but have been unable to produce anything to beat Hugo Lloris.

Text us on 81111

Peter in Belfast, via text: Spurs continuing to ride their luck more than any other team in the league, can see them nicking a result.

Steve Huish in Surbiton, via text: No one is saying United have been lucky with DeGea. However, it's the same with Liverpool and Suarez. Take one player out and United would be mid table, that is also a fact.

Kelly in Walton, via text: Without DDG Man U's position might be different. But the same can be said for City without Lampard's vital goals or Chelsea without Fabregas. One player may make a difference but they can't do it alone.

HALF-TIME

It is also half time at the City Ground where the home fans will be stunned to see their side 3-0 down to Birmingham. The Blues lost 4-0 to Derby on Boxing Day but hammered Reading 6-1 earlier this month. Roller-coaster times for Birmingham fans these days...

Bradley Allen

former QPR forward on BBC Radio London

"It was a tremendous half. Manchester United showed great quality in the last 15 minutes and Tottenham owe a debt to their keeper Lloris. There will be relief from Tottenham that they have gone in level and if they are going to get anything from this game they may need to make some changes. Van Persie, Falcao and Young have all looked dangerous for United."

HALF-TIME

They have hit the post, had a shot cleared off the line, missed a sitter and had numerous chances saved by goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, as Manchester United go in frustrated at the break.

Tottenham will be mightily relieved they are still in this match.

GOAL

More bad luck for Forest as Andrew Shinnie's shot from the edge of the box is saved by Karl Darlow but the ball hits his own defender and drops for Clayton Donaldson in the six-yard box to poke home his second of the game.

Birmingham in total control at the City Ground.

GREAT SAVE!

EPA

Hugo Lloris is a busy man. This time the Tottenham goalkeeper flies across goal to tip Ashley Young's sublime curling effort wide.

Bradley Allen

former QPR forward on BBC Radio London

"At half-time, Mauricio Pochettino will be asking his team to steady themselves and get more of a control on this game. They can't just rely on interceptions and breakaways. Spurs are playing like an away side here."

Opta

Tottenham's danger man Harry Kane has struggled to get involved in the game in the right areas so far. As his touch map shows above, he has only touched the ball once in the opposition area. The hosts need to get the in-form striker into the game.

CLOSE!

It just won't go in for United as Ashley Young's left-wing cross is headed downwards by Wayne Rooney but into the arms of a diving Hugo Lloris. It is quite incredible that United are not ahead.

Bradley Allen

former QPR forward on BBC Radio London

"Van Persie just had too many touches and it enabled Lloris to compose himself to save. It id definitely a tactic for United to play the ball over the shoulder of the Tottenham defence for the runs of Van Persie and Falcao spinning in behind."

CLOSE!

Another huge let off for Tottenham. Robin van Persie is sent clear on goal by Michael Carrick's chipped through ball but, after a decent first touch, his effort from just yards out is half blocked by Hugo Lloris's legs. The keeper does well but Van Persie has to score from there.

Reuters

GOAL

David Cotterill is involved again as the midfielder delivers another low, bouncing cross into the box but this time Blues forward Clayton Donaldson sticks out a leg and gets a glancing touch to divert the ball in to the far corner.

Bradley Allen

former QPR forward on BBC Radio London

"The benefactors of this break-neck speed match could be Chelsea, who come here on 1 January. The players are putting so much into this match and it is sure to have an impact on the squad."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Rob in Newbury, via text: Dear Mac and John - a newsflash for you both. David De Gea plays for United and is part of their defence. How many defences would be good without their best player? And Spurs have let in more even with Lloris.

Glenn from Belfast, via text: De Gea is doing what he is employed to do, keep goal, and I'm glad Utd have him. The idea of him going to Madrid and Bale coming here is ridiculous.

Anonymous via text: Why do people act like it's pure luck if your goalkeeper is winning you games? He's still part of the team isn't he? No rules are broken if he saves a few shots.

GOAL

Forest are undone by a set-piece after dominating possession, with David Cotterill's low free-kick from the left bobbling in to the far corner of Karl Darlow's net after failing to get a touch in a crowded penalty box.

The visitors keep coming as Radamel Falcao latches on to Juan Mata's through ball, cuts inside Federico Fazio, but curls a shot that is easy for Hugo Lloris.

Tottenham will be relieved to be level after a frantic opening 30 minutes. They have looked dangerous themselves a couple of times but United look capable of breaking them down at will at the moment.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Suheil Patel: Falcao looks a shadow of a player he was at Atletico Madrid... Injury might be one reason

Andy Donley: Juan Mata has been looking increasingly dangerous recently. Fancy him to make the difference today.

Jeremiah Kariuki: This game is just swinging from one end to the other! Not settled at all yet.

Forest have asserted themselves in the game after a slow start but have failed to convert possession (66% to 34%) into goals and have largely been restricted to long-range efforts from Henri Lansbury and Robert Tesche.

A couple of yellow cards for a rattled Spurs as Andros Townsend and Benjamin Stambouli go in the book for late tackles.

The replays show Phil Jones's header (25 mins) crosses the line but the offside decision against the defender was correct. A pat on the back for the officials.

Text us on 81111

John on the Isle of Wight, via text: Re Rob, Newbury: United are awful defensively. United's defensive stats and winning run are purely down to the outstanding De Gea. Without him United would be in the bottom half of the table.

Mac in Sheffield, via text: Dear Rob from Newbury, I'm sure that's down almost entirely to David De Gea.

Attack, attack, attack

Almost half of Manchester United's attacks so far have come down the left. A feather in the cap for Ashley Young, something for Tottenham and their full-back Vlad Chiriches to ponder.

Opta

CLOSE!

United go close again. Phil Jones's far post header can only be tipped goalwards by Hugo Lloris with Jan Vertonghen acrobatically clearing off the line. United claim the ball was over the line but, with the flag raised for offside, it is immaterial.

HITS THE WOODWORK

So close for the visitors. Juan Mata's curled free-kick deflects off the Tottenham wall, leaving Hugo Lloris stranded, but the ball smacks off the post and Radamel Falcao is unable to bundle home the loose ball.

United awarded a free-kick 25 yards out and central....

CLOSE!

Radamel Falcao should do better. The striker is played clear on goal by Juan Mata's slide-rule through ball but, under pressure from two recovering defenders, his shot is easy for Hugo Lloris.

At the other end, an unmarked Harry Kane is unable to connect to Andros Townsend's chipped cross as the game opens up.

Reuters

Radamel Falcao goes down holding his face after a coming together with Jan Vertonghen. To be fair to the Colombian he was brushed in the face by the defender's arm but nothing to see here.

Christian Eriksen whips the free-kick in but the ball is easily cleared by the visitors. United have started well with Tottenham struggling to get hold of the ball early on.

A chance for Tottenham as Phil Jones fouls Ben Davies on the left about 30 yards from goal...

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Tom Wrathmell: Spurs team sheet looking horribly lightweight against Utd. Could be a long afternoon! I hope I'm forced to eat my words.

Chelsea Warrior: Spurs playing such a high-line and allowing Mata time on the ball is similar to playing Russian roulette.

Abhishek: Its going to be Lloris vs De Gea. Lets see how good Kane is against DDG.

Juan Mata's free-kick from the left is whipped in dangerously deep but Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris punches emphatically clear. United's corner is cleared before Mata is flagged offside. Spurs have a game on their hands here.

Fatigue specialist

Both sides have had less than 48 hours to prepare for this match - 43 hours to be precise - and Manchester United took a 'fatigue specialist' with them to White Hart Lane.

"We helped the players to recover," said manager Louis van Gaal. "We have a fatigue recovery specialist and he is with the squad today for the first time because recovery now is very important. He is a specialist. We have used him, the players have used and I hope it is enough."

Bradley Allen

former QPR forward on BBC Radio London:

"This is Premier League football at its best. I like Manchester United with this back three and Van Persie and Falcao up top. They know they have options to hit up front and the Tottenham defence know they are in for a game today."

Getty Images

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Nico Lennon: Incredible stat RE: Man Utd's first unchanged XI in 85 games for the Spurs game today. Speaks volumes about lack of stability

Zubair Rehman: Expecting a difficult game for United, but with the fire power we posses, we're capable of outscoring any team in the league!

James Kieran: Rooney is an attacking version of Scholes, #mufc got a powerful midfield today, and it doesn't count Di Maria, yet.

Spurs almost catch United out as Ryan Mason races on to Harry Kane's through ball. The midfielder looks as though he is set to shoot just as Jonny Evans recovers and takes the ball away.

At the other end, Wayne Rooney beats the offside trap but, after the loose ball falls to Radamel Falcao, Spurs crowd out the United striker and the chance is gone. A lively start.

Ashley Young has found good space in the first few minutes on the left but he has to improve his final ball. The United winger's low cross is too easy for Spurs to clear after promising build-up involving Michael Carrick and Radamel Falcao.

Ryan Mason takes a free-kick too quickly and United break. The ball finds its way to Ashley Young on the left but his cross deflects off himself for a Spurs goal-kick. A little bit too keen from Mason.

Tottenham formation

BBC

United formation

BBC

Text us on 81111

Kevin in Marbella: Xmas dream. Kane Hat trick. Spurs win 4-1. Holiday reality. 1-1 Draw.

Rob, Newbury: People keep saying United are 'awful defensively' - they have conceded just 19, fourth best record in the PL. Spurs have let in 24.

John: One thing is for sure, this won't finish as a goalless draw!

KICK-OFF

We are go at White Hart Lane.

LINE-UPS

Tottenham: Lloris, Chiriches, Fazio, Vertonghen, Davies, Stambouli, Mason, Townsend, Eriksen, Chadli, Kane. Subs: Walker, Paulinho, Soldado, Lamela, Vorm, Dier, Dembele.

Man Utd: De Gea, Jones, McNair, Evans, Carrick, Valencia, Mata, Rooney, Young, van Persie, Falcao. Subs: Da Silva, Shaw, Smalling, Lindegaard, Fletcher, Pereira, Wilson.

Referee: Jon Moss (W Yorkshire)

Getty Images

Ron Henry pictured in August 1962

Players and spectators are holding a minute's applause ahead of kick-off at White Hart Lane in memory of former Tottenham and England defender Ron Henry.

Henry, who played left-back in the Spurs side that won the league and FA Cup Double in 1961, died aged 80 yesterday.

The players will also wear black armbands as a mark of respect.

The teams are out at a packed White Hart Lane. Both sets of fans will be feeling optimistic about their team's fortunes but that will probably change by full time...

PA

Tottenham have the man of the moment in the Premier League with striker Harry Kane having netted 15 goals in all competitions. Only Sergio Aguero (19) has more for a Premier League side this season.

Tottenham have won each of their last three Premier League games, the first time they have done so under Mauricio Pochettino, but have scored just seven goals in their last eight Premier League games at White Hart Lane.

Stat attack

Some Christmas time stats for you before we get going at White Hart Lane.

- Aston Villa hold the record for the lowest finish in the league after being top at Christmas - ending the 1998-99 season in sixth.

- Liverpool have been top at Christmas the most times in the Premier League era without going on to win it (three times). The other sides to have suffered the same fate are Manchester United, Newcastle and Arsenal (twice), along with Aston Villa, Leeds and Norwich (once).

- Manchester United have the highest points total by Christmas, with 52 points in 1993-4, but 21 games had been played by 25 December that year.

- In terms of points per game, Chelsea come out top in 2005-6 with 46 points from 17 games - 2.7 compared to the 2.48 achieved by Manchester United in 1993-94.

Read in full here.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Seb: United to win 3-1, Rooney, RVP and Falcao to score

Hlayiseka Ngobeni: People need to accept the fact that Utd are back. Whether playing well or not we're getting results. Top 4 is a given!

Tom Colman: With Spurs using a high pressing system Man United can just pick them off in this game. Too much quality in there.

Not long now until the first Premier League match of the day as both sides undergo their warm ups at White Hart Lane.

After going 22 Premier League games without a win against United, Tottenham have won two of the last four. Spurs though remain without a home win against the Red Devils in 13 league meetings.

The last six meetings have produced 21 goals - an average of 3.5 goals per game.

Fingers crossed for more of the same.

Text us on 81111

Lee from Rochdale: Played in gale force conditions a couple of seasons ago and the opposition goalkeeper scored an own goal with a goal kick that flew back over his head. Hilarious!

Cameron Hollis: Was made to be a linesman during a game; couldn't even see the centre-backs due to fog.

Text us on 81111

Matt in Bolton via text: Both teams huddled in the centre circle for warmth in driving winds and hail. They had no manager and three of their players went home. We took turns to have a 1 on 1 with their keeper. It finished 27-0!

Ed via text: In sleet and high winds out of sympathy for our goalie getting hypothermia we let him play outfield in the second, as the opposition capitulated he scored a hat-trick winning 14-0, as one player from hotter climates refused to leave changing rooms!

Manager preview

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal, speaking to BT Sport: "I have players on the bench who have missed matches recently, so I could not change. The last match we dominated for 90 minutes, which I like. But we scored beautiful goals too and created a lot of chances. That is also important."

A reminder that United have named an unchanged side for the first time since November 2012...

Stay in touch

BBC

Still obliged to spend quality time with your family and unable to get away to follow your team? Here is the perfect answer.

On the BBC Sport app you can set push alerts from teams right across the English and Scottish leagues, updating you with tam news and goals as they happen. On opening the alert you will go straight to our dedicated football section.

Find out more here.

Matches off

A couple more casualties to the weather after Sheffield United v Scunthorpe was postponed in League One due to the weather.

Wrexham v Forest Green Rovers and AFC Telford v Gateshead are the latest to fall foul to the conditions.

Text us on 81111

This morning, we've been asking for your tales of taking to the field in terrible weather conditions, be it wind, rain, sleet or snow...

Jason: Was playing up front on the coldest, wettest day of the year for our under 12 team and went 3-0 up at half time. Our keeper started crying at half-time because he was too cold and I went nets. The game ended 3-3. Never lived that down!

Dan: Junior rugby game many years ago - both teams had to jog up and down the pitch to break the sheet ice. It was like falling on glass when we got round to playing.

Charlie from Newcastle: I once celebrated by sliding into a puddle next to the corner flag, a swan came down and joined in, then it spent the rest of the game cheering us on to a close 2-1 win.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Michael Louw: Falcao/van Persie/Rooney (strike force valued at over £100m) v Harry Kane. Backing Kane all the way. Come on my son!

Ikechukwu Nlemadim: LVG belief in youth is so unbelievable.. Starting McNair for his second game in 48 hours. Tipping Falcao to score today too.

Paul Moore: Can see Spurs winning this easily today, Harry Kane is in amazing form and United are awful defensively. No top 4 for United.

Manager view

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino: "It is difficult because we played less than 48 hours ago. That's never easy but that is our football. We have made four changes from the Leicester game, it is a good team for the game.

"We need to show energy personality and character today. We need to be brave, we know Manchester United are a good team but we need to believe and believe in our philosophy.

"Manchester United have a top manager and unbelievable players, but for us it is a good challenge."

Same again for United - for once

How about this for a stat then. Manchester United have today named an unchanged XI for the first time in 85 Premier League games, going back to November 2012.

Just two days after playing against Newcastle, a surprising moment to buck the trend.

Getty Images

Team news

We all know Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino is a man who likes to use his full squad - and today is no exception. The Argentine makes four changes from the 2-1 win at Leicester, with England winger Andros Townsend coming in for Erik Lamela in the most eye-catching switch.

Full-backs Vlad Chiriches and Ben Davies start ahead of Kyle Walker and Danny Rose, while central midfielder Ryan Mason replaces Nabil Bentaleb.

A straightforward selection for Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal, who names the same XI which started the 3-1 home win against Newcastle. The Dutchman makes one change on the bench though, England left-back Luke Shaw returning from an ankle injury to replace Tyler Blackett.

Player view

Manchester United defender Jonny Evans on BT Sport: "Our performances have improved recently and we played good football against Newcastle. Obviously it is different coming to White Hart Lane but it will still be a high-paced game even though we played two days ago.

"Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino has brought in the style of play that he played at Southampton, pressing from the front, organised and tactical. I expect it to be a technical game.

"Results bring confidence and positivity. We were disappointed with the draw at Villa because it stopped our winning streak. But coming into the game today we are quite confident."

MOTD's Simon Brotherton at White Hart Lane

"If Manchester United are going to turn a place in the top four into a decent title challenge, they'll need to start picking up more points away from home and tighten up at the back.

"In that context this will be a good test for them at White Hart Lane against a Tottenham side finally finding some form under Mauricio Pochettino."

Spurs defender Jan Vertonghen: "Manchester United are playing more as a team now and it is the best Manchester United team I've seen in a while. Despite all the injuries, they can play different systems. It is a complete team."

#getinspired

Chris Deeley

Chris Deeley: When even the ref is this filthy, you know it's bad... Had to move centre spot because mud was too thick!

#getinspired

Dan Manning: I play in goal and one cup game it was so windy I had to tip my own goal kick back onto the post, actually one of my better saves!

Andrew Cooper: I remember playing football in snow that bad my hair froze over and I ran away.

Team news

Nottingham Forest midfielder Henri Lansbury has shaken off illness to take his place in the side, but forward Dexter Blackstock has not recovered from a knock. Kelvin Wilson (suspended) and Jack Hobbs (ankle) both miss out.

Meanwhile, Birmingham boss Gary Rowett has resisted the urge to freshen up his side and goes with the same eleven that lost 4-0 to Derby on Boxing Day.

Nottingham Forest starting XI: Darlow, Lichaj, Mancienne, Fryatt, Assombalonga, Lansbury, Fox, Lascelles, Antonio, Paterson, Tesche.

Birmingham starting XI: Randolph, Caddis, Morrison, Robinson, Grounds, Davis, Gleeson, Cotterill, Shinnie, Gray, Donaldson.

You can listen to the Championship match live on BBC Radio 5 live from 11:55.

Leader of the pack

Chelsea's title challengers should perhaps look away now...

Blues boss Jose Mourinho has been top at Christmas seven times in his 12 full seasons as a manager - winning the league each time.

And yet he has never won any league when his side was not leading on 25 December. Ominous signs for the rest of the league.

BBC

Terry deal a "formality"

I mentioned it earlier during the newspaper round-up, but Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho says a new contract for long-serving defender John Terry is a "formality".

Terry's current deal expires at the end of the season and Mourinho believes his captain, 34, is playing as well as when Chelsea won the Premier League in 2005.

Mourinho said: "There are no doubts that he is going to get another contract. I know that, he knows that. He's a very important player in the team, so the next contract sooner or later will come."

Terry has spent all of his career at Stamford Bridge, has played almost 650 games for the club and is bidding to lead Chelsea to a fourth Premier League title and a first since 2010.

Tottenham's substitute goalkeeper Michel Vorm is deep in conversation with Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal on the White Hart Lane pitch. Perhaps reliving their World Cup adventures together with the Netherlands from the summer?

Join the debate on the BBC Sport Facebook page

Kieran Bolton: Played football once in snow, a lad scored, thought he'd dive in the snow to celebrate. Split his face open on what was actually ice.

Shelagh Burke: My son's team at under 9s played in very cold rainy weather. The match was abandoned at half time when the other team started crying as they were so cold.

Tim Hubble: I refereed a youth league cup came I abandoned with 8 minutes to go... players kept disappearing in the trenches on the pitch caused by bad weather and some idiot driving a tractor across it.

#getinspired

Bodger

Bodger: Just an average kick about with my dad! Love being a goalkeeper!

Spurs team news

England winger Andros Townsend makes his first Premier League start since 9 November as Spurs make four changes from Boxing Day's 2-1 win at Leicester.

Spurs starting XI: Lloris, Chiriches, Fazio, Vertonghen, Davies; Mason, Stambouli; Chadli, Eriksen, Townsend; Kane.

Vote

Will Manchester United continue their surge up the table? Can Tottenham claim a fifth straight win in all competitions? Or are we looking at deadlock at White Hart Lane? Let us know who you think will come out on top by voting at the top of this page, or by tweeting #tottenham #manutd or #draw to @bbcsport.

The vote will run until 13:00 GMT and terms and conditions can be found here.

BreakingBREAKING NEWS

Manchester United are unchanged from the side who beat Newcastle last time out.

Man Utd starting XI: De Gea, Jones, McNair, Evans, Valencia, Carrick, Rooney, Mata, Young, van Persie, Falcao

Spurs starting XI: Lloris, Chiriches, Fazio, Vertonghen, Davies; Mason, Stambouli; Chadli, Eriksen, Townsend; Kane.

We are a few minutes away from getting the team news from White Hart Lane, ahead of the early kick-off between Tottenham and Manchester United. You will get the news when we do.

Getty Images

BBC Final Score

BBC Final Score host Jason Mohammad is joined by analyst Garth Crooks and former Aston Villa forward Dion Dublin as they bring you the latest scores from Sunday's Premier League and Football League fixtures.

You can watch the scores come in from 14:30 GMT on this website and on the Red Button, and from 16:30 GMT on BBC Two.

BBC Radio 5 live

The first festive BBC Radio 5 live commentary game is from the City Ground where Nottingham Forest take on Birmingham City in the Championship - coverage starts at 11:55 GMT.

The focus moves to the Premier League and Etihad Stadium at 15:00 GMT, where champions Manchester City take on Burnley, and then on to St James' Park at 17:15 GMT, with second-half commentary of the match between Newcastle and Everton.

Time to celebrate

QPR

Own up then, who is still wearing their shocking Christmas jumpers? It would take some going though to beat QPR defender Rio Ferdinand for this little effort.

Want to know how some Premier League players celebrated their Christmas? You can take a look here.

Craig Gardner: Massive game for us today we need the 3 points and we need the fans behind us. Loud and proud as usual #boingboing #baggiessssss

Some reports this morning are suggesting West Brom boss Alan Irvine is on the brink of the sack...

#getinspired

Twitter

Gallaway: 2 weeks ago, 90 minutes of calamitous football in the mud. Enough surface water to go swimming.

Text us on 81111

Anonymous via text: Played a team when playing Essex border league Premier, they faced hail, rain and gale force winds in the first half, two players failed to return for second half and we won 10-0.

Don't forget to put your name on your texts to make sure we can use them.

Match postponed

The first game to bite the dust because of the weather today is the League One match between Sheffield United and Scunthorpe United.

After heavy snow and freezing temperatures, the pitch was passed playable but the match was postponed on health and safety grounds for the supporters.

We will will keep you updated if any more matches fall foul of the weather.

Berahino to Spurs?

BBC

Saido Berahino, Ron Vlaar, Petr Cech and Kevin Strootman have been linked with moves

Strootman to Manchester United? Shaqiri to Liverpool?

The winter transfer window is about to open and the chequebooks will be out for managers in search of the title, promotion, continental qualification or just hoping to stave off relegation.

BBC Sport, with the help of global football experts, assess 50 possible moves that could happen in January.

Torres to Milan... then Madrid

How's this for a strange transfer tale? And the January window isn't even open yet.

Chelsea and Spain striker Fernando Torres will join AC Milan on a permanent basis on 5 January before being loaned out to former club Atletico Madrid next month.

BBC Sport understands Italy winger Alessio Cerci, 27, will move the other way to Milan.

#getinspired

Wesley Frith: Muddy winter training session...

Adam Frith

#getinspired

Antony Welch: Broken bones, pulled muscles, nothing compares to taking a ball in the face when it's minus 5 outside and wet.

Ru Taylor: Played on the south coast last year. Wind so strong the right back scored with a cross from half way.

Carl Fletcher: Due to snow, the manager once said "let's call it off, but say we drew 17-17 to boost the goal difference!" No logic.

#getinspired

Philip Watkins: Playing in snow with a white ball, I scored from a corner and wheeled away in celebration: no one else noticed ball in the net!

Matt Lynch: Played on the top of a hill on the Cannock Chase, I scored an own goal as I was that cold I couldn't move my legs!

Roy: Once told our game on with 4 inches of snow, drove 10 miles to venue, referee said where's your shovels?

Lawro's Predictions

AP

O'Connell with 'Unbroken' director Angelina Jolie

BBC Sport's football expert Mark Lawrenson is up against actor Jack O'Connell for the Premier League fixtures on 28 and 29 January.

The Derby County fan, who has appeared in TV dramas such as 'This is England' and 'Skins', is the star of the new Coen Brothers film 'Unbroken', which tells the life story of star athlete and World War II hero Louis Zamperini.

Can he correctly predict more correct results than Lawro? See what you think on the BBC Football page.

#getinspired

Brian Kenny: Standing where the corner flag should be.

Brian Kenny

#getinspired

Antony Welch: Played on a pitch so frozen once that the centre-back slipped and knocked himself clean out.

Matt Earl: Played on a pitch that wet I made a slide tackle on 18 yard line and finished 5 yards behind the goal in a big puddle #getinspired

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

FA director of communications Adrian Bevington, who leaves his post at the end of December, on Twitter: "Understandable debate about so many games in such a short period, when other countries are resting. Major conundrum.

"Fans love the festive fixtures, it's part of our tradition. Broadcasters rightly max out on the games and we get big crowds.

"The administrators who have to make the fixture programme work have a very difficult job, when factoring in Uefa and international calendar."

A debate that will run...

More festive fixture fury

Gus Poyet is not the only one unhappy about the festive fixture list as Louis van Gaal vents his feelings about his Manchester United side playing again within 48 hours after watching them seal their seventh win in eight games with a 3-1 Boxing Day victory over Newcastle.

"With FIFA and UEFA's rules it's forbidden to play within 48 hours. In England, it's okay," the Dutchman told Sky Sports.

"I cannot prepare my team like I have to prepare. We have unit meetings, and team meetings, we have training 11 against 11, and assimilating opponents, we cannot do that now."

Festive fixture list a 'disgrace'

PA

Enjoying a few days off over Christmas? No such luck for footballers and you could say Sunderland boss Gus Poyet isn't happy about it...

The Black Cats head to Aston Villa today just 48 hours after losing 3-1 at home to Hull City.

"I know that Boxing Day games are a tradition and I accept that and think we should maintain it," said Poyet. "But I think that then playing on the 28th is a disgrace. We shouldn't be playing then, we shouldn't."

Sunderland have won just two of their past 11 Premier League games, are 14th in the table - one place and one point below Villa.

#getinspired

Adam Flint: Can't beat Sunday morning football!

Adam Flint

#getinspired

Matthew Payne: One very wet Sunday morning I managed a Sol Campbell-style, never ending slide tackle & took out a spectator.

Donkey Adams: During a cup game in torrential rain our keeper walked off because 'he was cold'. Stand in GK won us game on pens.

Chris Cowley: Once played on Portland - Dorset, took goalkick into the wind and the ball went over my own crossbar for a corner. #breezy

Crystal Palace were "brave"

Football Focus pundits John Hartson and Mark Lawrenson say Crystal Palace's decision to sack manager Neil Warnock is "brave".

Warnock joined the Eagles for a second time in August 2014 following the departure of Tony Pulis, but the club's 3-1 home defeat by Southampton on Boxing Day saw them drop into the relegation zone.

Hartson believes Warnock's management was "not up to what's required" to stay in the Premier League, while Lawrenson is not shocked by the decision but thinks Palace need to find his replacement quickly.

Watch in full here.

Warnock sacked

EPA

• Tony Pulis left 48 hours before the start of the season after guiding Palace to an 11th-place finish and being named Premier League manager of the Year.

• Neil Warnock won just three of his 16 Premier League games in his second spell in charge, giving a win percentage of 18.8% compared to Pulis's 42.3%.

• Crystal Palace are now looking for a fourth manager in 14 months since Ian Holloway's departure in October 2013.

Warnock's Palace misery

The big news this weekend from the Premier League is the sacking of Neil Warnock as Crystal Palace boss.

Warnock became the first Premier League manager to be sacked this season, having joined the Eagles for a second time in August 2014, following the departure of Tony Pulis.

Happy Christmas Neil.

The likes of Tim Sherwood and Tony Pulis are being strongly tipped as a potential successor.

Coming up

Here is a reminder of what there is to look forward to today in the Premier League.

Tottenham v Man Utd (12:00)

Southampton v Chelsea (14:05)

Aston Villa v Sunderland (15:00)

Hull v Leicester (15:00)

Man City v Burnley (15:00)

QPR v Crystal Palace (15:00)

Stoke v West Brom (15:00)

West Ham v Arsenal (15:00)

Newcastle v Everton (16:15)

#getinspired

Shaun Thomas: Charity match Boxing Day 2010, sore knees all round.

Shaun Thomas

Foxes at the bottom

BBC

Things are tight at the other end of the table but Leicester will end the year at the bottom, whatever they do at fellow strugglers Hull this afternoon. Burnley and Crystal Palace will be eying moving out of the drop zone come the end of the day though.

Who will be top of the pile?

BBC

So this is what the top of the Premier League table looks like. There is still a chance that Manchester City could end 2014 top of the pile but they need to rely on Chelsea losing at Southampton and themselves beating Burnley. They also need to make up a three-goal difference. Some suggest it is a three-horse title race now with Manchester United flying in third.

Latest gossip

Here are some more of the stories making the newspapers this morning:

Sunday Mirror: Manchester United will have to offer goalkeeper David De Gea, 24, as part of any deal in their attempts to sign 25-year-old forward Gareth Bale from Real Madrid.

Star on Sunday: Liverpool are ready to test Aston Villa's resolve by trying to sign midfielder Fabian Delph, 25, and centre-back Ron Vlaar, 29, in a £15m deal, with both players out of contract next summer.

Sunday People: West Ham want to offload striker Mauro Zarate, 27, to make room for manager Sam Allardyce to bring in new signings.

For a full run down of today's gossip columns, see here.

#getinspired

Brett Oldfield: Once played U14 level in hail and snow, all players were allowed to wear their coats under their kits.

Michael Chapman: Our keeper having to get acrobatic after the wind blew his goal kick backwards as it reached the halfway line.

Tim Hughes: Played a Sunday game where the hailstones forced 22 grown men to cower behind trees like wimps! They didn't half sting.

#getinspired

Dave Brown: Me four weeks ago. Roade v FC Locomotiv Moulton in the Northants Sunday Combination Div 2. Who'd be a keeper?!

Dave Brown

Back pages

Star on Sunday

Good news for Chelsea fans on a couple of the back pages with both the Star on Sunday and Sunday Express reporting the news that John Terry is set to get a new one-year deal at Stamford Bridge. At 34, surely good for a couple more years yet?

Sunday Express

Back pages

Sunday Mail

The transfer window is about to reopen and the newspapers are full of speculation about who is going where this month. The Mail on Sunday reports Arsenal are set to offer Sporting Lisbon £20m for holding midfielder William Carvalho. You imagine if that one happens, there will be a lot of very happy Gunners fans.

Back pages

Sunday Telegraph

The Sunday Telegraph focuses on Neil Warnock's Crystal Palace sacking and predict another Premier League managerial casualty might not be too far off. Managerless Palace travel to fellow strugglers QPR, while Alan Irvine's West Brom travel to Stoke very much in need of a win.

First though let's have a look through today's newspapers...

Your experiences of awful conditions

Getty Images

It's bitterly, bitterly cold in most places of the UK - but every year, hardy, brave souls put on their boots to play in near zero temperatures on rock-solid grounds across the isles.

We want you to tell us your tales of winter wizardry, orange balls, clearing the snow, showers failing to work, transport woes, or anything else that has happened to you when playing in challenging conditions.

Also, if you've been playing this weekend or watched your family member/friend cough and wheeze in the cold then send in your photos.

Tweet #getinspired with your stories and/or pictures or text in on 81111.

Good morning and welcome to what, for most, will be the last footballing day of 2014.

Run out of conversation with the in-laws? Had enough of turkey? Bored of your new computer games? Why not crank up your new tablets, mobile phones and laptops and settle yourself down for a busy day of football.

There are some intriguing Premier League matches ahead and we will bring you all the action that matters. So, forget the freezing temperatures, wrap yourself up and enjoy the action.

For some it has been a pretty miserable Christmas.

Reuters

Others have been given hope.

Getty Images

While there are a few who show little signs of letting their ruthless winning mentality slip.

Getty Images