Premier League Sunday, Gameweek 18: Open Thread

For Swansea City today, it’s their biggest match of the season versus the best team in England, Manchester United. For United, it’s a chance to maintain the six point lead at the top of the table. The Swans have beaten Arsenal, drawn Chelsea and lost to Manchester City 1-0, so the Welsh team’s record against the top four is almost immaculate. Can they maintain their excellent record today?

In team news, Nemanja Vidic and Jonny Evans come in to the United side for Chris Smalling and Rio Ferdinand. I’ve been very critical of Jonny “Liability” Evans, so it’ll be interesting to see if I have to eat my own words today if the Northern Irishman puts in a stellar performance.

For Swansea, manager Michael Laudrup has made two changes. Michel Vorm comes in for Gerhard Tremmel. Vorm has been injured for a few months now, and this is his first game back between the goalposts. Also, Kemy Agustien replaces Ki Sung-Yueng, which I’m ecstatic about. I love Agustien’s grit in midfield, where he’s often a tough defensive midfielder to get past. And when he moves forward, he’s so creative with his passes, splitting open defenses, which is exactly what the Swans needs today if they want to provide Michu with service.

In the other match today, Chelsea plays Aston Villa. The Blues have an opportunity to move into third place in the table with a win. Aston Villa, who resoundingly beat Liverpool last week, will be very confident going into this match with a hard-working side that Paul Lambert has expertly crafted.

Before, during or after today’s Premier League matches, post your rants, raves, questions or observations below.

Have a wonderful Sunday and enjoy your football!