Arsenal travel to Aston Villa on Saturday with a five-point lead at the top, but recent history suggests caution. The Gunners squandered a two-goal lead at home to Villa in January and lost to them last season, halting a six-game winning streak. Victory at Villa Park, against a side that have lost only once in the league since August, would be a significant statement in their title charge.
Bournemouth have taken just one point from their last five games and look tired. Andoni Iraola may turn to Enes Unal for a first start in almost a year after his long injury lay-off. The former Manchester City youngster scored a minute after coming on against West Ham last month and could provide the spark needed against Chelsea.
Sean Dyche faces his former club Everton for the first time since being sacked in January, now with Nottingham Forest. Dyche kept Everton up despite two points deductions, an absentee owner, and a negative net spend. His contribution to the club's survival and new stadium should be recognised when he visits Goodison Park on Saturday.
Manchester City have scored 32 league goals but conceded 16, a record that is broadly fine compared to rivals. Sunderland, who have conceded only 14 times and drew 1-1 with Liverpool midweek, pose a stern test for City's defence this weekend.
Tottenham's Micky van de Ven may be key against Brentford's Igor Thiago, who has 11 league goals this season. Van de Ven was rested midweek and his pace will be crucial to handle the Brazilian striker, with a Champions League match also on the horizon.
