Chelsea looks to halt English Premier League slump

LONDON (AP) -The English Premier League summit increasingly out of sight, Chelsea's priority now is avoiding sliding out of the top four.

A loss at Newcastle last weekend after a draw against Reading has seen Chelsea's grip on third place loosened considerably.

Tottenham is just a point behind and can dislodge Chelsea by beating Newcastle on Saturday if its faltering London rival loses to Wigan.

Chelsea's prospects of halting a four-game winless run - including two cup draws - isn't helped by injuries to two key players.

Goalkeeper Petr Cech has broken a finger, while striker Demba Ba broke his nose.

Meanwhile, Manchester United is running away with the title, sitting nine points ahead of Manchester City.

City is at Southampton on Saturday and United hosts Everton the following day.