London, Dec 15: Newcastle United try to avoid the drop but face champions Manchester City who are eyeing a win to the gap on Manchester United, highflying Norwich host struggling Wigan while Queens Park Rangers still search for their first win and Stoke City hope to win against fourth place Everton.

Newcastle United vs Manchester City - St. James Park

Newcastle are currently struggling and they now host champions Manchester City in the opening game of the week at St. James Park.

The Magpies have won only one of their last five league games and are currently only two points clear from the drop zone.

City are coming into this game after the loss against rivals Manchester United but Roberto Mancini continues to back his players. The reigning English champions have to show their true strength and be consistent to challenge for the title.

Norwich City vs Wigan Athletic - Carrow Road

Norwich have lifted themselves from relegation dwellers to 12th place on the table and entertain Wigan Athletic who are struggling in the drop zone at the moment.

The Canaries are on a run of nine unbeaten games while the Latics have won just one of their last six Premier League games.

Norwich were on a run of four unbeaten home games in the league but a 4-1 defeat to Aston Villa in the Capital One Cup should have dented their confidence.

Queens Park Rangers vs Fulham - Loftus Road

QPR boss Harry Redknapp still remains unbeaten but cannot find that crucial win which the Londoners are waiting since the start of the season.

This game against their city rivals Fulham could be the game to break that unwanted record in the Premier League.

Since Redknapp has taken over, players are performing better than under Mark Hughes.

Fulham ended their winless run against Newcastkle last time out but have not won in their last 5 away games.

Stoke City vs Everton - Britannia Stadium

Everton jumped to fourth spot after that thrilling 2-1 win over Tottenham last week in which two goals were scored during injury time.

But now they face Stoke who have won four of their last five games at home. Tony Pulis' side have one of the best defensive record this season, conceding only 12 goals in 16 matches.

Tottenham Hotspur will aim for a Champions League spot when they host Welsh side Swansea City at White Hart Lane on Sunday.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Swansea City - White Hart Lane

Top-four place is up for grabs after Everton drew against Stoke City. Spurs will be kicking themselves for letting two injury-time goals last time out which cost them a top-four place.

But Andre Villa-Boas's side now face Swansea, who have had mixed results in the last one week.

West Brom Albion vs West Ham United - The Hawthorns

West Brom are on their worst run this season, losing three in a row, but can comeback against West Ham who have been consistent away from home.

The Hammers have won just one game in five but faced tough opponents Tottenham, Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool.

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