Premier League: 10 Crucial Takeaways from the Weekend's Action
This past set of top-flight action provided no shortage of intrigue, unexpected scores, and interesting subplots. From clashes between managers to star performances, let's delve into the major discussions coming out of the matches.
The Chelsea Boss Stands Firm Versus Guardiola
The young coach's unforeseen confrontation with the celebrated tactician recalled recollections of previous unequal sideline contests. For McFarlane, taking charge for his senior coaching bow, the task was halting the Blues' woeful sequence against the champions. A last-gasp equaliser from the Argentine midfielder secured a crucial draw, something previous coaches had failed to accomplish.
Arne Slot's Struggle to Close Games Out
Even with their big-money signing scoring the net, Arne Slot's team ended up disappointed after allowing a lead evaporate at Marco Silva's side. The concern of not managing to manage matches when ahead persists, with the team almost letting slip comparable advantages in recent matches. Until they discover the art of defending a lead, the campaign promises to be a challenging affair.
The Arsenal Midfielder Supports The Swedish Striker to Fire
Viktor Gyökeres is experiencing a lengthy run without scoring from general play, but his midfield colleague the England international insists the forward is still vitally influential. He highlighted his work off the ball and unselfish efforts as key to Arsenal's form. "Good things are going to follow," was Rice's confident assessment for his off-colour strike partner.
The United Boss Must Get Sesko to Find His Edge
Given Manchester United setting up in a notably cautious fashion, the onus rested with the offensive partnership to deliver. Whereas one forward persisted with his fine run, Benjamin Sesko endured another forgettable afternoon. The Slovenian has found goals hard to come by since his big-money transfer and missed a golden opportunity to claim the match. The new year provides a clear need for the striker to find his form.
Enzo Le Fée Leaves Tottenham in a Muddle
The Black Cats boss positioned the French midfielder in a deeper role initially, before releasing him further forward as the contest wore on. The move was inspired, with he turning into the chief creator of his team's push for an equaliser. After directing the woodwork, he provided a exquisite pass for the all-important goal. Now fully adapted to the intensity of the Premier League, his campaign is on the rise.
Nuno Espírito Santo Misses Opportunity to Use Pablo
Amid an woeful defeat for West Ham, head coach the Portuguese coach chose against use any of his named bench players. Among them was recent acquisition the Brazilian striker, who watched on despite his club's utter ineffectiveness. The manager felt it would have been "unjust" to send the recently-arrived recruit into the match. Yet, with firepower at a shortage, the need to integrate the new boy as soon as possible is painfully obvious.
7. Miley Makes A Further Huge Claim
The teenage sensation produced a further exceptional showing while playing in an unfamiliar role. The youngster was flawless in his own half, set up the first goal, and lifted the team in a scrappy match. Now that first-choice right-backs available, the question for manager him is whether to include the remarkably talented teenager in his natural midfield berth. "Coming Toon line-ups will undoubtedly be designed around the lad," seems an ever more safe assessment.
Could the Sean Dyche Impact Wearing Thin at The City Ground?
The manager's first impact at Forest was positive, but questions are beginning to emerge about the side's versatility. The team's transition ability remains, but looks less potent without key attackers. Whilst disciplined when defending deep, Dyche's men have been exposed when needing to come from behind. Giving the ball away in such circumstances has shown punishing, a lesson they must address immediately.
The Striker's Goal Rush Stops Brentford's Travel Woes
The West London club delivered a performance that belied their dismal away record. Key to their impressive victory was the red-hot form of number nine the Brazilian. His presence are giving a foundation for the team to build on. Winger Kevin Schade even suggested the lofty dream of a top-seven finish as a possibility, emphasizing the growing belief coursing through the team.
