Just when it looked like Arsenal had blown its chances of finishing in the top four, it put on a brilliant display to defeat Chelsea 4-2 in midweek.
That shock victory came after three consecutive defeats to Crystal Palace, Brighton, and Southampton, where it conceded six times, and only netted once.
The Gunners are still fifth, level on points with North London rival Tottenham – 57 points – from 32 matches.
Three points behind – having played a game more – is Manchester United, which suffered a 4-0 defeat by Liverpool on Wednesday morning.
Victory for Arsenal over United will give it much breathing space and a confidence boost ahead of the titanic clash with Tottenham on May 13 (2.45am).
It is a match that may decide which team plays in the Champions League next season.
Meanwhile, it was reported that Manchester United captain Harry Maguire received a “credible” bomb threat to his home. The Cheshire Police said a police explosives dog searched the gardens and surrounding area.
Maguire has had a torrid season, with many fans blaming him for United’s poor form.
There is some good news for United as talisman Cristiano Ronaldo may be back in the line-up after time off to grieve the death of his newborn son.
The Portuguese international, United’s top scorer with 21 goals, received a round of applause, and Liverpool fans serenaded him with You’ll Never Walk Alone as they, and United supporters, rallied around him.
United desperately need him back as it has yet to win a match he has not played in this season.
Another good news for Red Devils fans is that the club has finally confirmed that Dutchman Erik ten Hag will take over after the season ends.
The Ajax manager will be United’s fifth permanent manager. It also had three interim caretaker bosses, including incumbent Ralf Rangnick, since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013.
Ten Hag is on the verge of winning the Dutch league and will bring a winning touch to a side desperately in need of rejuvenation.
FIXTURES (Malaysian time)
SATURDAY
Arsenal vs Manchester United (7.30pm)
Leicester vs Aston Villa (10pm)
Manchester City vs Watford (10pm)
Norwich vs Newcastle (10pm)
SUNDAY
Brentford vs Tottenham (12.30am)
Burnley vs Wolves (9pm)
Chelsea vs West Ham (9pm)
Brighton vs Southampton (9pm)
Liverpool vs Everton (11.30pm)
TUESDAY
Crystal Palace vs Leeds (3am)
