PREMIER LEAGUE WEEKEND PREVIEW

THE Premier League swings back into action this weekend with a top-drawer clash kicking things off on Saturday lunchtime.

Liverpool need three points against Manchester City to try and inject some life into their flagging campaign while Mark Hughes's side want to send out a signal of intent as they bid to break into the top four.

Steven Gerrard is fit for the Anfield encounter, and Glen Johnson is also expected to play, but Fernando Torres is set to remain on the sidelines.

Five games take place at 3pm with leaders Chelsea facing a home encounter with Wolves. The injury problems have been piling up for Carlo Ancelotti's side but they are strong favourites to see off Mick McCarthy's men.

Arsenal have a tough trip to Sunderland without Robin van Persie but the Black Cats are missing Kenwyne Jones, Craig Gordon and Lee Cattermole, even if Lorik Cana does return.

Burnley meet Aston Villa, Birmingham take on Fulham and Hull look to build on their win against Stoke when they tackle fellow strugglers West Ham.

The teatime game is at Old Trafford where Manchester United entertain Everton. Sir Alex Ferguson will be in the dug-out after all but there is no Rio Ferdinand or Gary Neville for the champions, with Neville's brother Phil not fit enough to return to his old stamping ground.

Three fixtures take place on Sunday, with the highlight being Tottenham's clash with Wigan at White Hart Lane.

Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce goes back to Bolton with his Rovers side and Stoke do battle with Portsmouth at The Britannia Stadium.

For all the teams, goals and live text commentary, CLICK HERE to visit our scorecentre.

We will have all the best reports, comment and reaction in the News of the World over the weekend.

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