By Martin Graham
The long-held belief that 40 points secure top-flight status is once again being debated as the season enters its final stretch. Although often treated as the comfort zone, this total has not been needed to avoid relegation since the 2010-11 campaign.
Only on a handful of previous occasions have clubs been sent despite meeting or exceeding this figure, most notably in the late 1990s and early 2000s. However, the current balance in the bottom half suggests the margin for error may be narrowing again.
With a dozen matches to play, the gap between several teams remains narrow, raising the possibility that a higher total will be needed to secure another year in the division.
West Ham lead the late push
Segut 18, West Ham they are mounting a serious challenge to get out of trouble. They follow each other Nottingham Forest by only three points, while Tottenhama higher place, it’s just a little further ahead.
The Hammers have collected 24 points so far, a stronger return than most teams previously in that position at the same stage. Their recent run has been particularly encouraging, with three wins helping them collect 10 points from five games.
The story also offers some optimism. In a number of seasons past, when they were similarly placed, West Ham performed well, often taking at least 15 points from their last 12 outings to preserve their Premier League status.
You fight elsewhere and you have an end ahead of you
The momentum is not shared in the lower half. Tottenham have picked up just four points from their last nine games, while Forest, now without a manager, have won twice in 10 attempts.
above, Brighton i Crystal Palace they are not entirely comfortable either. Brighton have managed just one league success since the end of November, and Palace have also found wins hard to come by, most recently blowing a two-goal lead before defeat.
Given West Ham’s remaining schedule and their penchant for late surges, the final few weeks promise some real drama. If his improvement continues, the total required for survival could approach the once-mythical 40-point mark.
