EPL: Manchester United remained in charge of the Premier League after dispatching Sunderland 2-0. Dimitar Berbatov bagged a Boxing Day brace to lift united clear of their closest rivals Arsenal and Chelsea. Rafael van der Vaart continued his fine form as his brace helped Tottenham to a 2-1 win over Aston Villa.

Tottenham, who were reduced to 10 men with the sending off of Jermaine Defoe, managed to hang on to victory despite a nervy finish. West Ham reignited their dreams of staying in the nation’s top league with a come from behind 3-1 win over hapless Fulham. Carlton Cole led the way for the Hammers with a brace while Frederic Piquionne got the other.

Carlos Tevez replaced knitted brows with smiles as he scored twice to help City dispatch Newcastle 3-1. Wigan moved three points clear of the drop zone with a 2-1 win over Wolves, Bolton returned to winning ways as they eased pass West Brom 2-0.

New Blackburn boss Steve Kean experienced his first defeat as manager when his lost 2-0 at home to Stoke. Marc Wilson and Robert Huth got the goals for Stoke over the ninety minute period.

Editor’s note: The Serie A, La Liga and Bundesliga are on winter break.