With a full programme of New Year fixtures across all four divisions, The Times highlighted in particular Aston Villa's clash with high-flying Newcastle United.

Villa had recently beaten Newcastle 3-0.

Sheffield United were noted as a young team showing splendid form, while Blackburn Rovers were improving after a disastrous start.

The Highlight of the Second Division was Bury v Plymouth Argyle.

[1] Notes = Number in parentheses is the times that club has won that honour.