Key Boxing Day fixtures set to shape Premier League title race

Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester City headline Thursday's action, each with their own stakes in the season's narrative.
Liverpool sit atop the Premier League table on Christmas Day for the first time since the 2020/21 campaign, a position that historically hasn't always translated into ultimate success.
Of the last seven occasions they've led the league on December 25, only once have the Reds gone on to clinch the title. However, Arne Slot's side will be determined to reverse that trend as they host Leicester City at Anfield.
Leicester, now under the stewardship of new manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, have struggled for consistency. Despite an initial victory under the Dutchman earlier this month, the Foxes have managed just one point in their past three matches, conceding nine goals in the process. Liverpool will view this as a crucial opportunity to cement their lead at the top of the table.
Manchester City's domestic dominance over the past four seasons has been unparalleled, but this campaign has been anything but smooth. Pep Guardiola's men suffered their ninth defeat in 12 matches across all competitions with a 2-1 loss to Aston Villa on Saturday.
The Sky Blues will look to steady the ship against Everton at the Etihad, with the Toffees seeking to exploit the rivals' vulnerabilities. Despite their current struggles, City's pedigree and depth make them a team never to be underestimated, and a strong showing could reignite their season.
Chelsea find themselves in an intriguing position heading into their derby clash with Fulham at Stamford Bridge. Currently second in the league, the Blues are just four points adrift of leaders Liverpool but have played one game more. With the title race heating up, a win over their west London rivals is imperative to keep the pressure on Slot's men.
Fulham, meanwhile, will be keen to spoil the party and secure bragging rights, adding another layer of intensity to this historic rivalry.
While Thursday's fixtures take centre stage, the festive football feast continues into Friday, with two more Premier League matches rounding off the week's action.
As ever, the Boxing Day matches promise to deliver excitement, passion, and plenty of talking points, with the Premier League's best battling it out during the most wonderful time of the year.