That's worked out pretty well, assuming we maintain something like our quality from last season (irrespective of points).
By early Dec, we will have already been away to Chelsea, Spurs, Arse & Liverpool. And we don't have any periods where we play 3-4 tough games on the trot (with cup games inbetween) like we usually get.
If we are anywhere close to the top, by mid Dec, the league has a problem (again) & we don't have any big away games (& bent refs) clashing with the big games (& bent refs) in the latter stages of the Champions League.
Provided we don't allow ourselves to be mugged by the domestic cups & pick up lods of injuries & fatigue, (which should be less likely with an improved squad) that gives us a great crack at the two biggest competitions.
We only have to be 'thereabouts' at Christmas really, to be right on course.