Premier League: 10 Crucial Takeaways from the Weekend's Action
This past set of top-flight fixtures served up no shortage of drama, shock outcomes, and fascinating storylines. Ranging from clashes between coaches to individual brilliance, let's delve into the major conversations coming out of the games.
Calum McFarlane Holds His Own Against Pep Guardiola
The Chelsea manager's unforeseen duel with Pep Guardiola brought back memories of earlier David vs Goliath coaching battles. In the case of McFarlane, making his top-level maiden game, the mission was halting his side's woeful recent record against Guardiola's side. An injury-time goal from Enzo Fernández earned a crucial point, something previous coaches had struggled to achieve.
The Reds' Failure to See Out Matches
Despite the German playmaker scoring the net, Arne Slot's team ended up disappointed after surrendering a lead slip against the Cottagers. The concern of failing to control matches when in front remains, with the side previously squandering similar margins in earlier weeks. Until Slot's men discover the skill of seeing out a game, the campaign promises to be a challenging process.
The Arsenal Midfielder Backs Gyökeres to Start Scoring
Arsenal's striker is experiencing a lengthy run without scoring from open play, but his midfield colleague the England international has stressed the number nine is nevertheless immensely influential. He pointed to his pressing and selfless efforts as key to Arsenal's success. "Good things are going to follow," was the midfielder's supportive assessment for his misfiring strike partner.
The United Boss Requires Sesko to Find His Edge
Given the Red Devils lining up in a notably defensive fashion, the responsibility fell on the offensive partnership to produce. While Matheus Cunha continued his fine run, his strike partner endured another frustrating outing. The Slovenian has hit the net hard to come by since his high-profile switch and spurned a golden chance to win the contest. The new year offers a obvious imperative for him to regain his confidence.
5. Le FĂ©e Leaves Tottenham in a Muddle
The Black Cats boss deployed Enzo Le FĂ©e in a more defensive position at first, before pushing him up the pitch as the match wore on. The move proved a masterstroke, with Le FĂ©e becoming the chief creator of the visitor's fightback for an equaliser. Following glancing the woodwork, he provided a perfect pass for the crucial strike. Having settled in to the demands of the top flight, his impact keeps improving.
The West Ham Manager Wastes Chance to Introduce Pablo Felipe
In a dismal performance for West Ham, manager the Portuguese coach opted against use any of his permitted bench players. This meant recent acquisition Pablo Felipe, who watched on even with his club's utter ineffectiveness. Nuno suggested it would have been "unfair" to send the new striker into the action. However, with goals at a premium, the imperative to assimilate the new boy quickly is painfully apparent.
7. Miley Makes Another Huge Statement
The teenage sensation turned in yet another superb showing whilst operating in an unfamiliar role. The midfielder was impeccable in defence, set up the first goal, and lifted the team in a stop-start affair. With specialist full-backs returning, the conundrum for boss him is how to include the incredibly mature player in his natural midfield berth. "Coming Toon teams will certainly be constructed with him," seems an a accurate assessment.
8. Is the Sean Dyche Impact Fading at Nottingham Forest?
The manager's first impact at Forest was admirable, but concerns are beginning to arise about the team's plan B. Forest's counter-attacking threat exists, but appears less potent without key personnel. Although disciplined when sitting back, Forest have been exposed when forced to open up. Cheap turnovers in such moments has proven disastrous, a problem they must address rapidly.
The Striker's Scoring Form Stops Brentford's Away-Day Blues
Brentford delivered a showing that masked their poor away record. Vital to their commanding victory was the red-hot form of striker the goal-getter. His presence are providing a platform for the team to build on. Teammate Kevin Schade even floated the lofty aspiration of a top-seven finish as a target, emphasizing the growing optimism coursing through the squad.
