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Right, let’s hear your views on this Premier League season. I’d like the following: the verdict on your side’s campaign, your favourite moment, and predictions for next season (winner, relegated sides, best player).
David Moyes was their manager, John O’Shea their captain. Eight (!) years have passed since Sunderland’s last stint in the Premier League, but they’re back after a last-gasp playoff win over Sheffield United.
Saturday’s headline was Champions League glory for Arsenal, a momentous win, 18 years on from the last time they did it. Chelsea may have landed the domestic treble but its their north London rivals who have the biggest prize.
Jonathan Liew, Suzanne Wrack and Tom Garry were all there to take it in.
There is a whistle, and then there is a scream, and then there is pure confusion. Arsenal have planned this game to the very last detail, rehearsed every last contingency, mapped out every possible scenario. But not this one. Some run; some stagger. But in these earliest moments of triumph, wherever they are on the pitch, somehow it feels telling that the first instinct of these Arsenal players is to find each other.
The last day also means a final appearance for Gary Lineker on Match of the Day. I’ve never known the show without him; it’s going to be a strange sight next season.
Preamble
I need you to trust me, one last time. No, I’m not Ethan Hunt/Tom Cruise trying to save the world/cinema, but some support would be appreciated as I guide you through the final day of the Premier League season.
Alas, the real drama is done. All that’s left for Liverpool is a knockabout before the trophy lift, while Ipswich, Leicester and Southampton are already prepping for life in the Championship. It’s the quest for Champions League football that’s keeping this thing alive, with Manchester City, Newcastle, Chelsea, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa vying for the three remaining spots.
City just need a point, while Newcastle and Chelsea know that three will do the job. Forest, who take on Enzo Maresca’s side, and Villa need wins and other results to go their way. All are in search of those big European nights and, let’s face it, the cashola.
There’s Wembley to keep track of as well, with Charlton meeting Leyton Orient in the League One playoff final. The former, once Premier League regulars, want to end a five-year absence from the Championship; the latter haven’t played in the second tier since 1982.
There’s plenty to keep tabs on as we build up to the drama. Drop me a line with all your thoughts, concerns, queries, Mission Impossible reviews, whatever you fancy.
