Relegation decider looms for trio
West Ham face a tough task against Man United
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Sunday, 13, May 2007 11:23
Wigan, West Ham and Sheffield United go into the final day of the season knowing their Premiership status stands on a knife edge.
The Latics are the side most in danger of going down as they start the day in the relegation zone, three points adrift from their fellow strugglers.
Wigan travel to the Blades knowing they must win the game to stand any chance of staying up while United need just a point to guarantee Premiership football next season.
Latics boss Paul Jewell said: "It is in our hands and all we have to do is win one football match."
Blades manager Neil Warnock added: "We are 90 minutes away from the greatest achievement in my career."
The Hammers face a daunting trip to Old Trafford to play Manchester United who will receive the Premiership trophy at the end of the game.
West Ham also only need a point but if they lose to the Red Devils and Wigan defeat the Blades then all three sides would be separated by goal-difference alone.
In that equation the Hammers are the side worst off and could only be saved if the Latics defeat Sheffield by three more goals than any potential losing margin West Ham suffer against Man United.
But manager Alan Curbishley remains confident, saying: "Perhaps this week the expectation levels have turned. We are playing well, we have got a settled side and there is no reason why we can't go to Old Trafford and finish it off."
Manchester United are expected to name a strong line up while the Hammers will play Carlos Tevez in what could be the Argentinean striker's last game for the club.
The Blades are at full strength for their showdown with Wigan who will give late fitness tests to key defensive duo Leighton Baines and Arjan de Zeeuw.