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Week 18 show cases a fantastic Boxing Day fixture with 5 sides able to claim top spot, even for just a short period. Manchester City certainly look the favorites at home, but I feel Liverpool with Luis Suarez in his current form will be dangerous. It is too close to call for me. Manchester United should pick up 3 points on the road to Hull City, however the home side have only given up 8 goals at home this season. It almost just seems like a trap match, but given United's previous stature, you almost have to try and include a Red Devil's attacker. Chelsea should win out against a Michu-less Swansea so the Blues may be a good option for defensive returns.
But the main question I am still left to ponder is over Leighton Baines's starting status (this will obviously affect Bryan Oviedo owners). I am tempted to just take the risk and start him in my line up. He was supposed to be assessed last week, but obviously failed. However he has been passed fit this week and I see no reason why Roberto Martinez should ease him int the side. Baines is Everton's talisman, you wouldn't see Steven Gerrard eased back at 29 years of age. Is that just a bunch of hooey to justify his inclusion in my squad..... probably. But hey, it feels like the holidays and the Christmas cheer is all around, so I might just take a risk or two!
My current side looks like:
Cech, Walker, P. Jones, Baines, Ramsey, Walcott, Januzaj, Oscar, Lukaku, Adebayor, Suarez (capt)
Bench: Ozil, Flanagan, Kelly, Gazza
I am fairly happy with it but I may decide to switch Januzaj. I am sure Ashley Young will warrent a possible shot of a start after impressing last match with a goal from the bench. If he does start he makes a great differential. Baines, as explained above, is also a worry of mine, but my gut just keeps telling me to keep him. Oh the frustration of Boxing Day!
How is your team shaping up? Who are you looking to make captain?