How Do the Christmas Day Table-Toppers Fare in the Premier League?

That being said, it’s still a tight race at the top of the EPL table, as we’re in a year where a team with 4-5 losses making it all the way to the top. “They were sharper than us”, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger told BT Sport. “Today was a very physical game and we didn’t play well enough”.

On the other hand, the Red Devils have been disappointing in their last four games as they have failed to win in any of those games. Raheem Sterling, Yaya Toure and Wilfried Bony put the hosts three up inside 22 minutes before De Bruyne struck his 10th goal of the season to add to the lead before Fabio Borini struck a consolation before the hour mark. But there was some bad news for City in that match as well, because their captain Vincent Kompany limped off just 10 minutes after coming on as a sub, suggesting that he is set for more time out with injury.

Chelsea’s road to recovery following the departure of Jose Mourinho may not have had the smoothest of starts after the club drew 2-2 with Watford on Boxing Day, but the Blues will still arrive to their clash against Manchester United in high spirits knowing their opponents are enduring a tough time.

The previous season saw Sunderland bottom of the Premier League on Christmas day 2013.

At White Hart Lane Harry Kane scored twice as Tottenham beat Norwich 3-0.

Oscar had a chance to give Chelsea victory when substitute Eden Hazard was fouled by Valon Behrami, but the Brazilian slipped as he took his penalty and sent the ball looping into the crowd.

Chelsea take on United on Monday 28 December at Old Trafford at 5.30pm.

Swansea’s win dropped Newcastle United into the bottom three and they remained there as Tom Cleverley’s 93rd-minute header earned Everton a last-gasp 1-0 win at St James’ Park. Crystal Palace and Bournemouth were among the teams regarded as sure contenders for relegation, but both of them are far from the risky area and could settle for a draw.