Premier League: 10 Key Talking Points from the Weekend's Action
The latest set of top-flight games provided no shortage of excitement, surprise results, and fascinating storylines. Ranging from clashes between bosses to star performances, we examine the key points coming out of the games.
1. McFarlane Stands Firm When Facing Pep Guardiola
The Chelsea manager's surprise battle with Pep Guardiola brought back recollections of past David vs Goliath coaching battles. In the case of the debutant, taking charge for his top-level coaching bow, the task was overcoming his side's dreadful sequence against the champions. A dramatic goal from the Argentine midfielder snatched a valuable draw, an achievement former incumbents had failed to do.
Arne Slot's Failure to See Out Matches
Even with the German playmaker scoring the net, Arne Slot's team were left frustrated after letting a lead slip versus Fulham. The problem of failing to manage encounters when ahead persists, with the squad almost squandering similar leads in earlier outings. Until they discover the art of killing off matches, the season promises to be a frustrating one.
The Arsenal Midfielder Backs Viktor Gyökeres to Start Scoring
The Swedish forward is experiencing a significant dry spell from open play, but his teammate Declan Rice is adamant the forward is still immensely important. He highlighted his pressing and selfless efforts as integral to the league leaders title charge. "Good things are bound to follow," was Rice's optimistic prediction for his struggling colleague.
The United Boss Needs The Slovenian to Sharpen Up
With Manchester United lining up in a incredibly conservative fashion, the responsibility fell on the forward partnership to produce. Whereas Matheus Cunha persisted with his fine performances, his strike partner suffered another forgettable game. The Slovenian has hit the net hard to come by since his major transfer and wasted a late opportunity to snatch the match. The new year presents a clear need for the striker to regain his confidence.
Enzo Le FĂ©e Puts Tottenham in a State of Confusion
The Black Cats boss positioned Enzo Le FĂ©e in a deeper position to start, before releasing him into advanced areas as the game progressed. The decision proved masterful, with he becoming the chief creator of the visitor's fightback for an equaliser. After hitting the woodwork, the midfielder delivered a exquisite through ball for the all-important strike. Now found his feet to the pace of the English game, his impact is on the rise.
6. Nuno Wastes Opportunity to Bed In Pablo
In a woeful defeat for the Hammers, head coach Nuno EspĂrito Santo opted against introduce any of his available replacements. This meant recent acquisition the Brazilian striker, who remained unused even with his side's complete lack of threat. Nuno reasoned it would have been "unjust" to throw the recently-arrived recruit into the match. Yet, with goals at a premium, the need to blood the youngster as soon as possible is glaringly apparent.
The Teenager Delivers A Further Big Claim
The 19-year-old turned in another outstanding showing while filling in at right-back. The youngster was impeccable in his defensive duties, set up the opening goal, and raised the tone in a untidy match. With established full-backs available, the conundrum for coach Eddie Howe is if to fit the astonishingly mature youngster in his best central midfield berth. "Future Toon sides will undoubtedly be designed on him," seems an a safe prediction.
8. Is the New Manager Bounce Running Out at The City Ground?
Sean Dyche's first influence at the club was notable, but doubts are now emerge about the squad's plan B. Forest's breakaway ability remains, but looks less potent without previous personnel. Although disciplined when protecting a lead, Forest have been exposed when required to chase a game. Giving the ball away in these circumstances has shown punishing, a problem they must solve rapidly.
The Striker's Scoring Form Stops The Bees' Poor Road Form
The West London club produced a performance that contradicted their dismal travel sickness. Vital to their dominant display was the in-form scoring of forward the Brazilian. Thiago's goals are providing a base for the squad to build on. Attacker the German international even mentioned the ambitious target of a top-seven finish as a target, underlining the renewed belief in the squad.
