All the talk at this end of the season is the big four. Who is going for the title, who is still in with a hunt in Europe.
But spare a thought for the other teams in the Premier League. The mid-table teams that fail to get any recognition for their part in making the Premier League the best league in the world.
Ryan Giggs claimed the PFA Players Player of the Year Award, and it would take a brave man to bet against Sir Alex Ferguson winning Manager of the Year if United claim the league title and/or Champions League.
But what about Roy Hodgson?
Few turned their heads when he took charge at Fulham last season and steered them clear of relegation. Despite not having huge resources, and a rather average collection of players, he is kept Fulham well clear from the relegation mire which has included such “bigger” clubs as Newcastle, Manchester City, Tottenham and Blackburn at various stages of the season.
And the men from Craven Cottage could well qualify for the Europa League next season and Hodgson deserves to be rewarded, a view shared by full back John Pantsil. Heck, Fulham were the team that made the Premier League title interesting – by beating Man Utd at the Cottage last month.
Gianfranco Zola has also made good progress since becoming West Ham manager, and despite the gulf between the top six and the rest, Zola’s Hammers could well make that gap smaller next time out. One of the teams in that top six, Everton, could well end the season with some silverware, a feat that may mean boss David Moyes deserves recognition.
And don’t forget Tony Pulis. He has guided Stoke to virtual safety despite them being tipped to do a “derby”. Phil Brown would have been in with a shout if it wasn’t for Hull’s dramatic second half blip this season, which could still see them go down.
It would be nice to see a “lesser” team rewarded – although as Pulis said himself, it’s hard to ignore Sir Alex if United pull off a treble.
