HEROES and villains, subplots left, right and centre, and drama from start to finish — no it is not the pantomime season starting early, but another instalment of the greatest show on earth — AKA the Premier League.

AS ash clouds continue to mass over Europe, Carlo Ancelotti’s message to his Chelsea players after a potentially defining day in the Premier League title race will be similar to the advice given to trapped tourists: stay grounded and don’t panic.

HOW do you know when your team have made it? When exactly are they considered a “big club”? When Sheffield Utd charge £4 (€6) for a programme, that’s when.

Frank Lampard made his 150th consecutive Premiership appearance as Chelsea looked to continue their excellent record against Tottenham at White Hart Lane.