Going Down?: One Month To Save Their Skins

Last updated : 08 April 2010 By Tom Collins

Wolves have gone on a great little run of form at the right time, and now look pretty much safe. Mick McCarthy has done a terrific job at Molineux this season. He doesn't have many star names, but has got a group of committed, honest players to perform at their best in most games. Crucially they've picked up points on the road as well, at tough places like White Hart Lane, Villa Park and Goodison Park. They'll be safe unless they have a shocking run in the final games, which on paper aren’t the most difficult. VERDICT - SAFE

Bolton also look to be safe, but are still in need of a couple of wins to be sure of survival. They don't quite have the momentum Wolves have enjoyed recently, but have won points at the right time in their big games. The arrival of Owen Coyle galvanised their team, and despite suffering with injuries they look set to fight on for another season, although they do have a very tricky run-in. VERDICT – SAFE (JUST)

Wigan have had a bizarre season. Home wins against Liverpool and Chelsea would suggest that Roberto Martinez's side are to be pushing for a top eight finish, but they bizarrely find themselves at the wrong end of the table. Easily the most inconsistent team in the division, it's impossible to predict what they will produce between now and May. If they don't pick up enough points in crunch games against West Ham and Portsmouth then that game against City in the penultimate round of fixtures could be make-or-break for both teams. They have a very tricky final few fixtures. VERDICT – DOWN ON THE LAST DAY (Hopefully)

West Ham are arguably the most talented side to be in the relegation mix, and certainly have the highest wage bill of these teams. Gianfranco Zola's inexperience has been shown this season, and the Sardinian has struggled to unite his players effectively. An excellent draw at Everton may have galvansied the Hammers' players, and they're certainly capable of picking up wins in the closing games. However, another performance like their home defeat to Wolves and Zola will be out of the door and the dressing room as divided as ever. VERDICT – SAFE

Burnley have imploded after Christmas in a similar fashion to City last season. Have they been found out, or is it solely down to the departure of Owen Coyle to Bolton? Either way Brian Laws's men look doomed, particularly if City can get the three points on Saturday. The reversal in form needed to save them from the drop is massive, and just doesn't look possible. Saturday is their very last chance, and if the Tigers can do the business, then at least that’s one less relegation spot to worry about. VERDICT - DOWN