**Wolves, Burnley and Forest Stay Bottom as Premier League Relegation Fight Intensifies**
Key Takeaways:
- Wolves’ historic losing streak now stretches to 11 games, with only two points from 18 matches
- Burnley remain winless in nine games and have the league’s worst expected goals conceded (34.7 xGA)
- West Ham and Nottingham Forest also remain in striking distance of the drop zone amid inconsistent results
London — Premier League standings are trending after Matchweek 18 confirmed that the relegation battle remains largely unchanged, with Wolves, Burnley, and Nottingham Forest entrenched in the bottom three. Despite the festive fixture congestion offering hope for turnarounds, results over the past 48 hours have extended losing streaks and heightened pressure on several clubs facing the drop.
Bottom Three Clubs Mired in Trouble After Matchweek 18 Losses
Wolves fell 2–1 to Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday, marking their 11th straight loss in the Premier League. With just two points from their first 18 matches and sitting 16 points adrift from safety, manager Rob Edwards is likely preparing for the Championship, especially with mounting injuries and players unavailable due to the African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
At Turf Moor, Burnley failed to register even a single shot on target in a dull 0–0 draw with Everton. Though they dominated possession and had 16 shots, their lack of attacking precision underlined an ongoing rut that has seen them go winless in nine league games. With only 7 home goals scored and the worst xGA (expected goals against) in the league at 34.7, Burnley are six points away from escaping the drop zone.
Nottingham Forest provided perhaps the most credible performance of the three, holding Manchester City to a competitive 2–1 loss. Under Sean Dyche, they’ve reduced defensive vulnerabilities, cutting shots on target conceded by 35%. Still, the result leaves them winless in their last four games, and the fixture list ahead remains brutal.
West Ham and Leeds Drift Near Danger; Managerial Questions Loom
West Ham United lost 1–0 to Fulham in a poor attacking display marred by low shot quality (only 0.20 xGOT). This inconsistency — particularly sharp finishing in wins versus toothless play in defeats — raises serious questions, especially with striker Niclas Füllkrug set to leave for AC Milan. The pressure is mounting on manager Nuno Espirito Santo as January’s fast-paced fixture list looms.
Leeds United, meanwhile, earned a gritty 1–1 draw against Sunderland and have now gone five games unbeaten. While still just seven points clear of the relegation zone, they appear to have momentum, particularly with tactically mature performances under Daniel Farke and contributions from in-form striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
January Fixtures Could Decide Survival Fate
As the congested holiday schedule continues, clubs near the bottom have little room for error. Wolves face Manchester United, West Ham, and Everton in their next three games — all sides with their own inconsistencies. Meanwhile, Burnley’s upcoming fixtures include Newcastle, Brighton, and United, offering limited hopes for a rebound.
With multiple clubs missing key players due to AFCON and injuries, depth and consistency will be critical in January. The standings may appear static now, but a few unexpected wins could dramatically shift the relegation picture before the end of the month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is premier league standings trending?
A: Fans are closely watching the relegation battle as Wolves, Burnley, and Forest remain stuck in the bottom three following Matchweek 18 results.
Q: What happens next?
A: The relegation fight intensifies as all struggling teams face critical games in early January amid injuries and international call-ups.
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