This is obviously massively hypothetical and unlikely, but there is now a mathematical possibility that Liverpool will have to play Arsenal in a 4th place play-off to see who qualifies for the Champions League.
Arsenal are currently four points behind us with one game in hand, meaning if we pick up three points from our remaining two matches (a win and a loss) and Arsenal pick up seven (two wins and a draw), we’ll finish level on 73.
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Then, goal difference comes into account. We’re currently three better than the Gunners, but that can easily draw level if they win their required games.
After goal difference, it’s goals scored. Again, we lead by three, but as mentioned, that can change easily with Arsenal’s extra game and seemingly winnable fixtures against Stoke, Sunderland and an Everton side who won’t do us any favours whatsoever.
If both teams can’t be separated on points, goal difference and goals scored, we’ll have a Premier League play-off for the first time in history.
We beat Arsenal home and away, but an effective ‘Final’ for a Champions League spot will be a whole different ball game.
Here’s a possible set of results which would lead to the crunch clash – which would have to take place somewhere neutral (maybe Villa Park) – courtesy of the Independent.
Arsenal
Stoke City 1-1 Arsenal
Arsenal 3-0 Sunderland
Arsenal 2-1 Everton
Liverpool
West Ham 1-0 Liverpool
Liverpool 3-1 Middlesbrough