The result of their previous round match in the Premier League has put pressure on Manchester City, while also presenting an opportunity to Liverpool as the two sides prepare for their respective games on New Year’s Day.
Arsenal’s emphatic 4-1 win over Aston Villa has lifted Mikel Arteta’s side five points clear at the top of the table, placing the onus on Manchester City to secure all three points during what is likely to be a tough and chilly visit to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland.
The African Cup of Nations will play a role in this match, with five Sunderland and two Manchester City players currently competing in Morocco. Additionally, John Stones and Jeremy Doku are unavailable for the visiting side.
Manchester City appears to be peaking after achieving eight consecutive wins in all competitions, while Sunderland has only experienced four losses since their return to the elite.
Chelsea’s draw at home to Bournemouth gives Liverpool a chance to establish a five-point lead over fifth place if Arne Slot’s side can win at home against a resilient Leeds United, who are currently unbeaten in five games and pushed Manchester City to the limit in their last defeat.
Liverpool have sacked set-piece coach Aaron Briggs due to struggles in defending corners and free kicks. Leeds may see this as an opportunity to challenge a side that, despite recovering, still leaves rivals with chances to score.
Tottenham coach Thomas Frank returns to face Brentford, where he served before taking charge at Spurs. Brentford, now ninth in the table, is enjoying its best-ever first half of the season, while Frank’s position is still under pressure despite a recent win against Crystal Palace.
Crystal Palace will again be tested at home against Fulham, who are now level on points with Palace after three consecutive wins, while Oliver Glasner’s team has suffered three straight defeats.