What the top three need for Christmas

20Dec 2012

Premier League

With Christmas just around the corner, Christian Crowther takes a look at what might be on the title chasers' wish list from Santa...

MANCHESTER UNITED

Need: What do you get the kid that has everything for Christmas? In United's case, Sir Alex Ferguson would almost certainly ask Santa to ensure Nemanja Vidic stays fit for the rest of the season.

Why: Without their Serbian captain, United's defence has been undeniably shaky with no fewer than 24 league goals conceded already, the same amount as they let in across the whole of their 2008/09 title-winning season.

Urgency: The Red Devils started this season with both Chris Smalling and Phil Jones sidelined through long-term injuries. But rather than bring in cover, Ferguson decided to make do with what resources he had. In hindsight, this could have cost him if it wasn't for his team's maverick policy this year of simply outgunning the opposition after generously giving them a head start. Luckily, the Scotsman has the likes of Robin van Persie at his disposal to implement this approach, with the Dutchman currently joint top of the scoring charts on 12 and 2.6 to stay there.

MANCHESTER CITY

Need: An Etihad Stadium Resurgence

Why: Manchester City's title win was chiefly characterised by their unwavering home form. They dropped just two points in front of their fans en route to a maiden Premier League crown but have now surrendered five in their last two games at the Etihad Stadium alone.

How: Roberto Mancini's men have a golden opportunity to start their Etihad redemption against bottom club Reading this Saturday where City can be backed at 1.16 to scoop all three points. If they can successfully resurrect some formidable home form then their prospects of title retention, currently rated at 3.1, will be greatly enhanced.

CHELSEA

Need: A Striker

Why: Fernando Torres may have enjoyed a slight renaissance under the familiarly cosy wing of Rafa Benitez, though it's clear Chelsea need to find the Spaniard some competition. Much like Liverpool, who are far too heavily reliant on Luis Suarez, the Blues cannot continue without a viable alternative. If they don't, Chelsea's chances of finishing in the top three - rated at 1.66 - will be seriously dented.

Who: Radamel Falcao is the obvious choice. The Atletico Madrid hitman has consistently been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge and there aren't many strikers who can rival his goalscoring prowess in world football right now. If this move sounds a little ambitious, just remember a certain floppy-haired Spaniard arriving for megabucks in the January window two years ago.