London, Dec 31 (NationPress) The outcome of their last Premier League match has created pressure on Manchester City, while simultaneously presenting an opportunity for Liverpool as they prepare to face their respective opponents on New Year's Day this Thursday.

Arsenal's impressive 4-1 victory against Aston Villa has propelled Mikel Arteta's team five points ahead at the top of the standings, putting the responsibility on Manchester City to secure all three points during their challenging and cold trip to the Stadium of Light to take on Sunderland, as reported by Xinhua.

Players from both teams will be affected by the African Cup of Nations, with five Sunderland and two Manchester City players currently participating in Morocco. Additionally, John Stones and Jeremy Doku will not be available for the visitors.

Manchester City seems to be hitting its stride after achieving eight consecutive wins across all competitions, while Sunderland has only faced defeat four times since returning to the top tier.

A draw at home for Chelsea against Bournemouth opens a window for Liverpool to establish a five-point lead over fifth place, provided Arne Slot's side can triumph at home against a resilient Leeds United, who are currently unbeaten in five matches and pushed Manchester City to the edge in their last encounter.

Due to their struggles with defending set pieces, Liverpool has parted ways with set-piece coach Aaron Briggs, which Leeds may view as a golden opportunity to frustrate a recovering side that still gives rivals chances to capitalize.

Tottenham coach Thomas Frank returns to face Brentford, a team he left during the summer to coach Spurs. As he faces a rival currently in ninth place and enjoying its best-ever season start, Frank's position remains under scrutiny despite a prior victory against Crystal Palace.

Crystal Palace will face another challenge at home against Fulham, who are now level on points with Palace after securing three consecutive wins, while Oliver Glasner's side has stumbled with three straight losses.