Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League table thanks to a 1-0 victory over Newcastle at St James’ Park.

Olivier Giroud’s second half goal separated the two sides as the Gunners moved above Manchester City to the top spot once again. They now have a one-point gap between themselves and the pack.

Arsenal’s French striker was able to head home Theo Walcott’s free-kick twenty minutes after the interval after a tight first half in the North East.

Arsene Wenger’s side are 4/1 with in-play bet offer to the win the title, while City are still favourites at 11/10 following their 1-0 home win against Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Chelsea remained in touch of Arsenal as they defeated Liverpool 2-1 at Stamford Bridge where all three goals game inside the opening half.

The visitors took the lead early in the game as Martin Skrtel tapped in from close range. The advantage did not last long though, as Eden Hazard equalised 14 minutes later.

Samuel Eto’o ensured the Blues they went into the break in front when he beat Simon Mignolet in the visitor’s goal with his strike before half-time.

Chelsea go into 2014 in third place, two points behind the leaders. They are away to Southampton on Wednesday, while their next league game after that is at the KC Stadium where they will face Hull.

Everton took advantage of Liverpool’s slip up to surprise fans who bet on Premier League and move inside the top four after their 2-1 victory over Southampton at Goodison Park.

Seamus Coleman opened the scoring for the toffees on eight minutes. Substitute, Gaston Ramirez, levelled the scores, before Romelu Lukaku put his side back in front with his first goal in six games.

Everton are on the road to Stoke on New Year’s Day before a home tie against Norwich.