UPS AND DOWNS AS ENDGAME DRAWS NEAR

TWO of the Premier League’s promoted and relegated teams last season could switch places again this weekend.

The Examiner takes a close look at the issues at stake... ■■PREMIER LEAGUE

While the title race has a way to run, Sheffield United could be relegated this weekend.

Ten points adrift of safety with four games left, the Blades’ fate will be sealed either if they lose at Newcastle today or if Nottingham Forest match their result when they take on Manchester City tomorrow. ■■CHAMPIONSHIP

Leicester will be promoted if they beat Preston on Monday.

Their elevation could have been sealed before they take to the field, if second-placed Leeds lost to QPR last night. Thirdplaced Ipswich’s game in hand means Leeds cannot seal promotion this weekend.

Huddersfield and Birmingham meet in a key relegation battle if the Terriers lose, they are down, while even a draw would not be enough should Sheffield Wednesday win and Plymouth earn a point.

■■LEAGUE ONE

Portsmouth are up as champions and Derby will join them unless they lose at home to relegated Carlisle, Bolton win at Peterborough and there is a four-goal swing in Wanderers’ favour.

Posh join the losers of that battle in the play-offs, with the final two places up for grabs.

Barnsley would be in if they beat Northampton and

Blackpool must beat Reading and hope the incumbents slip up.

Cheltenham must beat Stevenage to have any chance of survival.

■■LEAGUE TWO

Sutton are still fighting for survival but need a win at MK Dons.

In their favour is the fact the Milton Keynes outfit are the only team set in a play-off place, while Crewe still need a point.

Bradford must beat Newport and hope Barrow lose – or draw if the Bantams win by seven – and Crawley do not win.