Premier League preview: Manchester United look to close the gap on leaders Manchester City, while Leicester bid to consolidate their place in the top four

The Premier League is back again this weekend, although once more some clubs will miss out due to the Carabao Cup final taking place on Sunday between Manchester City and Spurs.

City not playing means that Manchester United can make up ground in the title race, with the chance to move within eight points of them if they can beat Leeds United.

A win will be even sweeter given that it would be over their other local rivals, but Marcelo Bielsa’s side have hit form at the right time and will pose a real threat to the Red Devils.

Leicester can also consolidate their spot in third with a win over Crystal Palace.

The Foxes will be on a high after reaching the FA Cup final last weekend, although Palace are well rested having not featured since the 10th April.

There is also a huge game in the battle for fourth spot, with fourth placed Chelsea travelling to fifth placed West Ham.

The London derby could have a big impact on the current table, with the Hammers looking to force their way back into the Champions League places while those behind them will be watching in the hope that they drop points.

One club not far behind is Liverpool, who are currently seventh and welcome Newcastle United in the early kick off on Saturday.

Jurgen Klopp’s side have struggled for form in recent weeks, only managing a draw against Leeds on Monday, while their opponents have been rejuvenated in recent weeks.

The Magpies have only lost once in their last five, winning twice over that period as well as picking up an impressive draw against Spurs.

European outsiders Everton are in action on Friday, facing off against Arsenal.

The Toffees are eighth while the Gunners are directly below them in ninth, with both clubs looking to mount a late challenge for a top six spot as the season nears its end.

Elsewhere, West Brom come into a midlands derby against Aston Villa off the back of a disappointing loss to Leicester

Despite picking up form in recent weeks, the Baggies were brought back down to earth on Thursday and now face a must-win game in their fight for survival.

Brighton feature against the already relegated Sheffield United, looking to boost their hopes of staying up with a win.

The Seagulls are just seven points clear of the bottom three with six games remaining and will need to keep their focus against a Blades side who have nothing to lose.

Finally, Burnley travel to Wolves looking to distance themselves from the bottom three clubs below them.

Sean Dyche’s team have slipped down the table and now sit just six points above the drop zone, while Wolves are in mid-table with little left to play for.