As the festive season gets underway, football supporters all over the country will be eagerly anticipating the opportunity to see the matches stack up quickly in the Premier League.
The hectic schedule kicks off this week as all 20 teams bid to start December with a victory in a rare full set of midweek fixtures.
Below, Sports Mole takes a look at three talking points ahead of the games on Tuesday and Wednesday.
1. Chelsea's response
It may not have been a loss, but a goalless draw against Sunderland was a rare disappointment for Jose Mourinho's side on Saturday. The Black Cats deservedly received the credit for a stubborn defensive display against a team many had already crowned Premier League champions. For once, it was Chelsea who lacked a cutting edge to their attacking play as the likes of Eden Hazard, Oscar and Willian were left frustrated by the Sunderland defence.
After suffering a surprise disappointment, Mourinho will be desperate to see his players produce a response. Tottenham Hotspur visit Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, and it is a fixture which has seen Chelsea enjoy great success over the years. Spurs will arrive in West London with renewed confidence following their victory over Everton, so the hosts will have to be back to their best. Diego Costa will miss out due to suspension, and it wouldn't be a surprise to see Mourinho make other changes as he looks to keep his squad fresh. Manchester City look to be getting back to their best. Chelsea need to make a statement again.
2. Pressure on the Foxes
A victory can change everything in the bottom half of the Premier League. However, finding that vital win is proving to be very difficult for Leicester City, who have not tasted success since the dramatic 5-3 triumph over Manchester United in September. Two points in eight games is a big worry when your challenge is to stay in the league. Some reports have even suggested that Nigel Pearson could lose his job if the poor run continues for much longer. Most football fans will be hoping the Foxes keep faith with Pearson, but even he'll know that the pressure will continue to be piled on his shoulders if his side struggle in December.
The next test for Leicester is Liverpool at home on Tuesday evening. It may not have been a game many supporters would have targeted for a win when the fixtures were announced in the summer, but the need for a big result is greater than ever. Can Pearson inspire his players to a shock win over Liverpool?
3. Southampton's stumbling block
Throughout their impressive run of form, the doubters suggested that Southampton would struggle against the Premier League's top sides. It seemed like Ronald Koeman's side were passing every test in front of them, but the Saints were dealt a blow as Manchester City recorded a 3-0 victory at St Mary's Stadium on Sunday. Southampton failed to match the Premier League champions, and they could have no argument about walking away empty handed. The big challenge now is to get back to top form as quickly as possible.
Arsenal and Manchester United stand in Southampton's way within the next week. Beginning with a trip to North London on Wednesday, Koeman will be desperate to see his players perform with the confidence they claimed during their excellent start to the season. The Gunners are eager for a run of form of their own, and they'll be confident heading into the game. After failing to win in the last two games, Southampton need to deliver the goods soon to continue to challenge the teams they consider rivals.
