Chelsea on course for derby delight

RUNAWAY Premiership leaders Chelsea are closing in on their first title for 50 years and will hope to clinch it with victory at Fulham on April 23.

The Blues are currently 11 points clear of nearest rivals Arsenal, with Man Utd a further three points back, with six games to play.

After drawing with Birmingham, Chelsea could have expected to have to wait until playing Bolton on April 30, but Manchester United’s surprise defeat at Norwich brought forward their potential celebrations. Crucial to their hopes of securing it against local rivals Fulham, however, will be their next fixture against Arsenal.

Beating the Gunners at Stamford Bridge on April 20 would give Jose Mourinho’s side a 14-point lead at the top, even if United were to win at Everton, with 15 to play for.

Victory over Fulham would therefore make their lead unassailable with just four games remaining, United’s clash with Newcastle and Arsenal’s game against Tottenham on April 24 and 25 becoming irrelevant.

Chelsea fixtures: Arsenal (April 20), Fulham (April 23), Bolton (April 30), Charlton (May 7), Manchester Utd (May 10), Newcastle (May 15).