Why are we playing the better teams over the festive period

When we were 2nd the club would hardly say we had no chance of a Champions' League place, firstly because there was a chance and secondly because of the need to be positive. I think the first priority this year was stabilisation and hopefully an improvement on last season, the second target is Europe whether via a cup or league position, and the third target (get the bunting out) would be a CL place. At the end of the year it is in our own hands to finish top 4 and that is a fantastic achievement.