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CHELSEA (1) v PORTSMOUTH (13)Chelsea’s 10-point lead at the top looks safe against a hard-working but modest Pompey side whose main aim...

CHELSEA (1) v PORTSMOUTH (13)

Chelsea’s 10-point lead at the top looks safe against a hard-working but modest Pompey side whose main aim is survival. Jose Mourinho, whose men have won their last six league games without conceding a goal, can afford to rest some of his key players. Portsmouth will take on the English game’s tightest defence without striker Lomana LuaLua, who starts a three-match ban. (ESPN, 10 p.m., Sunday)

EVERTON (4) v CHARLTON ATHLETIC (7)

Everton produced probably their worst performance of the season losing 2-0 at Charlton in December and will expect better in front of their own fans. All five of Everton’s defeats this season have come against London clubs and although the signing of striker James Beattie provides a boost, the recent form of keeper Richard Wright has not inspired confidence.

MANCHESTER UNITED (3) v ASTON VILLA (10)

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United return to league action after toppling minor league Exeter City in their midweek FA Cup replay. Players rested for the trip to Devon, such as skipper Roy Keane and defenders Rio Ferdinand and Gabriel Heinze, should return as United get the chance to leapfrog Arsenal into second place for at least a day. They have gone eight games without conceding a goal. Villa beat Norwich 3-0 last weekend but it followed a run of six defeats in seven games and David O’Leary’s side, yet to be strengthened in the transfer market, look destined to struggle. They have not won a league game at Old Trafford since 1983. (Star Sports, 10 p.m., Sunday)

SOUTHAMPTON (19) v LIVERPOOL (5)

Saints, with French midfielder Fabrice Fernandes out after a recurrence of the hamstring injury he suffered against Fulham two weeks ago, have not won in 10 games. Striker Kevin Phillips is still out but keeper Antti Niemi should make his return from injury. Liverpool, criticised for fielding reserves in their FA Cup defeat at second division Burnley, should field their strongest team available with Fernando Morientes leading the attack as they look for three points.

‘Why weren’t TVK leaders told it wasn’t right day for a big event’: Cong MP Jothimani

Political Pulse5 hr ago

A stampede at TVK founder Vijay's rally in Karur led to the death of 40 people and injuries to many. Congress's Karur MP Jothimani identifies overcrowding, poor planning, and the timing of the event as possible causes. She recommends setting clear guidelines for political gatherings and consulting all parties to prevent similar tragedies.

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