Chelsea are unlikely to complain about not being
awarded the genuine Premier League trophy if they pip Manchester
United to the title.
The clubs are level on points going into their final
league fixtures of the season, against Wigan and Bolton
respectively, the first time the top two have been deadlocked at
this stage since 1968.
The Premier League today confirmed there will be versions of the
trophy at both the JJB Stadium and Stamford Bridge but it is
understood the genuine article will be at Wigan, with Chelsea
having to make do with a replica.
A Premier League spokesman said: "The practical difficulties of
the title race going into the final day of the season means that a
Premier League trophy will be on standby at both the JJB Stadium
and Stamford Bridge."
Chelsea are content that United, as defending champions, have
the real trophy at their game.
However, it is understood the decision is based solely on United
being more likely to win the title because of their superior goal
difference.
Chelsea must better United's result to deny them back-to-back
championships.
This year is the first time the destiny of the title has not
been decided before the final day since United pipped Arsenal by a
point in 1999.
On that occasion, there were versions of the Premier League
trophy at both Old Trafford and Highbury, although it is understood
the genuine article was in Manchester, with a replica on standby in
north London.
