West Ham and Liverpool could face a play-off to determine who qualifies for the Europa League. The Hammers lie sixth in the Premier League before the final round of matches, while Liverpool are eighth.
There is a possible scenario that has both clubs level on points, goal difference and goals scored.
West Ham would have to lose 1-0 at Stoke City and Liverpool beat West Brom 2-1; or the Hammers lose 2-1 while it finished 3-2 to the away side at The Hawthorns, and so on. In addition, seventh-placed Southampton would have to be denied a win against visitors Crystal Palace.
Those scorelines would leave the Irons level after 38 matches with Liverpool.
If they were tied, the play-off would only be needed if their finishing spot is in a Europa League position, and Sevilla were to win next week’s Europa Legaue final in Basle.
A Premier League spokesperson confirmed an extra game could take place, although the likelihood is small.
League rules state: “If at the end of the season either the league champions or the clubs to be relegated or the question of qualification for other competitions cannot be determined because two or more clubs are equal on points, goal difference and goals scored, the clubs concerned shall play off one or more deciding league matches on neutral grounds, the format, venue and timing of which shall be determined by the board.”
Any date or ground has not been decided upon. Maybe our one chance of Wembley this season?
…which is all nonsense, of course. The Spanish Primera Liga goes straight to head to head results in the season if points are level. They don’t even use goal difference.
…though Liverpool might not be too happy with that arrangement!
Can’t agree more why is the team results not being looked at,
Never mind it won’t be needed after the Stoke game,