Leaders Arsenal dropped vital points in the Premier League title race as they were held to a 2-2 draw at Southampton on Tuesday, with Mathieu Flamini sent off with 10 minutes to go.

Southampton took the lead through a Jose Fonte header but goals from Olivier Giroud and Santi Cazorla put Arsenal ahead only for Adam Lallana to equalise for Southampton.

Flamini was then sent off for a two-footed challenge but the visitors hung on for a point to extend their lead to two points, meaning Manchester City could overtake them if they win at Tottenham on Wednesday.

Liverpool hammered Everton 4-0 in the Merseyside derby to consolidate their position in fourth, three points behind Chelsea, who play West Ham on Wednesday.

In pouring rain at Anfield, Daniel Sturridge scored twice, and missed a penalty, as Liverpool romped to victory to close to within six points of Arsenal.

Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez scored the other goals as Liverpool moved three points clear of Tottenham and four ahead of Everton.

Robin van Persie scored on his return from injury as Manchester United beat bottom side Cardiff City 2-0.

Ashley Young scored the other goal while Juan Mata made his United debut as they remained seventh, but now just two points behind Everton.

Swansea and Crystal Palace both moved clear of the relegation zone with home wins.

Jonjo Shelvey and Chico Flores scored the goals as Swansea saw off Fulham 2-0 while Jason Puncheon’s strike was the difference as Palace beat Hull City 1-0, with Hull goalkeeper Allan McGregor sent off in the last minute.

Norwich City drew 0-0 with Newcastle United in the night’s other match.