It’s time to make some changes in the English Premier League (EPL) soccer this season.

The traditional big four, Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool have dominated in the EPL in the last decade. However, the performances of these teams are not quite as strong as many thought in the first half of the 2009-10 season. The other teams are competing very hard trying to finish in the top four and hopefully win the EPL title in May before the World Cup 2010 gets started in June.

Birmingham is one of the three clubs that have the potential to destroy the traditional big four this season. Birmingham is absolutely the hottest team right now. They are currently unbeaten in 14 games (12 in the EPL and two in the Football Association Challenge Cup) since the Hong Kong businessman Carson Yeung became the team’s new owner. Indeed the team’s performance has impressed many people including the manager of Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson. Can any of the big four have a 14-game unbeaten streak this season? It is doubtful. If Birmingham continues to play well, don’t be surprised if this club finishes in the top four.

Hey Manchester United, you better watch out for your rival, Manchester City. Yes, I’m serious. Manchester City is currently in fifth place. Significantly, the City has a game in hand and it has won four league games in a row since the club has axed its old manager Mark Hughes and replaced him with the former Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini. Mancini’s successful coaching experience is totally the boost Man. City needs to be a champion this year. Also, former Manchester United forward Carlo Tevez is hot, as he has recently scored two goals against his former club in the Carling Cup. Tevez’s great scoring ability could help him to become the top scorer as well.

Harry Redknapp’s team, Tottenham Hotspur, is another challenger for the EPL title this year. They are currently in fourth place, just 10 points behind the leader, Arsenal. Undoubtedly, their home record is great, but their inconsistent play on the road is an obstacle for them getting a higher position in the standings. Don’t worry; Redknapp will surely try his best to help his team be successful for the remainder of the season.

So who will finish in the top four in May? We’ll see!