Arsenal and Chelsea could be forced to play a play-off match for the final automatic Champions League qualification spot, although it could prove to be a very difficult game to organise.

ESPN’s Dale Johnson reports that the play-off will have to be undertaken should Arsenal gain two points on Chelsea, and just one goal in goal difference, in Chelsea's favour. So, should Arsenal win 2-1 at home to Newcastle and Chelsea draw 0-0 away at Everton it would mean a playoff at a neutral venue would have to be played to decide who finishes third in this year’s Premier League.

The third placed side in the league goes directly into the Champions League group stage, while the fourth placed side must get through a play-off round, a fate both teams will hope to avoid.

Premier League rule C.14 explains the criteria taken into account when dividing sides level on points, and the necessity for a playoff in the event of a tie.

"If at the end of the season either the League Champions or the clubs to be relegated or the question of qualification for other competitions cannot be determined because two or more clubs are equal on points, goal difference and goals scored, the clubs concerned shall play off one or more deciding league matches on neutral grounds, the format, timing and venue of which shall be determined by the board."

There is significant difficulty in organising a date and venue for such a game, as Wembley – the most obvious neutral venue – is booked up to May 29th with the Champions League final, the Championship playoff final and the England V Ireland friendly. Prior to those dates Chelsea have an US tour scheduled, while June 2nd sees England play Brazil in a high profile friendly in Brazil. The 3rd-13th of that month is a FIFA international break, including the start of the UEFA Euro U-21 Championship Tournament. Should a playoff be required it could be July before it can be played.