Bolton boss Gary Megson believes the Premier League top four is not clear cut anymore but says the gap between the top clubs and those fighting for survival is greater than ever.

The Trotters manager says that Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool are now being challenged but about three other clubs, leaving 13 teams to battle to avoid the drop.

"When you look at what City, Villa and Tottenham have been doing, they have put themselves in a position where they are challenging for the top four," Megson said.

"The Champions League places that were looked upon as automatic a year or two ago are not automatic any more. There are seven or eight who should be looking to get themselves in there so the rest of us are going to be battling for the other places."

Bolton take on City this weekend in a vital clash for them as they sit second bottom on the table and three points from safety.