Excuse us if we sound excited but this is the kind of week when the hyperbole can take a back seat and the sheer range and quality of the sporting fare on offer can speak for itself.
From the Premier League to the Champions League to the Championship, we have some truly epic football for you to enjoy and that’s even before we mention the ‘jewel in the crown’ as we countdown to the return of the Formula 1 World Championship to our screens.
Step into the fast lane and soak up all the hype as the F1 bandwagon starts rolling once again. Double world champ Lewis Hamilton begins his title defence in his Silver Arrow, looking to stamp his authority over his rivals from the very first rev of his engine. There’s practice, qualifying, expert analysis and all the inside track as we build up to ‘Lights Out’ on Sunday morning. It’s going to be spectacular.
As a taster before the main meal we have a mouth-watering clash of the biggest egos in football, when Mourinho welcomes Zlatan to Stamford Bridge tomorrow evening. With the Champions League last 16 tie perfectly poised at 1-1, Chelsea will be looking to see off PSG just like they did in last year’s quarter final.
Then on Friday we have a crucial game courtesy of the world’s most competitive league, as Middlesbrough host Ipswich at the Riverside. With Boro one of four teams tied at the top of the table with 66 points, this is a must-win match against the Tractor Boys who themselves are just shy of a play-off position.
If that wasn’t enough already, the weekend sees the return of the Premier League as we reach a critical juncture of the season. Champions Man City and Champions-elect Chelsea renew their fight for the title, with the Citizens visiting Turf Moor on Saturday night and Jose’s Blues hosting Koeman’s Saints in the early game on Sunday.
Sunday also sees the battle for a Champions League place take centre stage when Manchester United entertain Tottenham at the Theatre of Dreams. A case of England’s present versus England’s future, as Wayne Rooney looks to outshine Spurs golden boy Harry Kane in game which promises lots of goals.
If you still haven’t had your fill of this overflowing sporting menu, then there’s always the Cricket World Cup, Super Rugby from Down Under, Rugby League from up north and darts to keep you going until you’ve had your fill.
Phew… A Sky Sports Week Pass never looked so appetising.
