Premier League: Ten Major Discussion Topics from the Weekend's Action
This past round of Premier League games served up a wealth of intrigue, unexpected scores, and interesting subplots. Ranging from duels between managers to individual brilliance, here are the primary conversations coming out of the games.
1. McFarlane Makes a Statement When Facing Pep Guardiola
The Chelsea manager's unforeseen battle with Pep Guardiola evoked thoughts of previous unequal sideline contests. For McFarlane, making his top-level maiden game, the task was overcoming the Blues' dreadful recent record versus Guardiola's side. A last-gasp strike from the Argentine midfielder secured a valuable draw, something previous managers had struggled to achieve.
The Reds' Inability to Shut Up Shop
Even with the German playmaker scoring the net, Arne Slot's team were left disappointed after allowing a winning position slip away versus the Cottagers. The concern of being unable to manage encounters when ahead continues, with the team previously throwing away similar margins in previous weeks. Until the team discover the skill of defending a lead, the quest is likely to stay a frustrating one.
The Arsenal Midfielder Shows Faith In Gyökeres to Find Form
The Swedish forward is experiencing a notable goal drought from open play, but his fellow star Declan Rice insists the forward is nonetheless immensely influential. Rice highlighted Gyökeres' hold-up play and selfless efforts as integral to the league leaders title charge. "Good things are bound to arrive," was his supportive message for his struggling teammate.
Ruben Amorim Must Get Sesko to Sharpen Up
With Ruben Amorim's team setting up in a particularly conservative fashion, the responsibility fell on the forward partnership to produce. While the Brazilian continued his impressive performances, his strike partner experienced another forgettable game. The Slovenian has hit the net scarce since his high-profile switch and spurned a excellent opportunity to win the contest. The new year offers a obvious imperative for him to find his scoring touch.
The Sunderland Star Leaves Tottenham in a Muddle
The Sunderland manager deployed Enzo Le Fée in a unfamiliar position to start, before unleashing him further forward as the match developed. The decision proved masterful, with he turning into the architect of Sunderland's fightback for an leveler. Following glancing the woodwork, the midfielder provided a sumptuous through ball for the all-important strike. Now found his feet to the intensity of the top flight, his influence is on the rise.
6. Nuno Fails to Take Opportunity to Bed In Pablo
Amid an embarrassing performance for West Ham, boss the Portuguese coach chose against use any of his named substitutes. This meant new signing the forward, who watched on even with his club's utter lack of threat. Nuno reasoned it would have been "too harsh" to introduce the recently-arrived striker into the fray. However, with scoring at a shortage, the need to blood the 22-year-old as soon as possible is painfully apparent.
The Teenager States Another Major Case
The teenage sensation delivered another exceptional showing while operating out of position. He was flawless in defence, created the first goal, and set the standard in a untidy encounter. Now that established defenders returning, the dilemma for coach the Newcastle boss is how to fit the incredibly talented teenager in his best engine room position. "Next Toon line-ups will undoubtedly be designed around him," seems an increasingly accurate prediction.
8. Is the Sean Dyche Impact Fading at Nottingham Forest?
The former Burnley boss's first influence at Forest was notable, but concerns are now surface about the squad's versatility. The team's transition prowess remains, but looks less potent without certain personnel. While structured when sitting back, they have looked vulnerable when required to come from behind. Giving the ball away in these circumstances has proven costly, a lesson they have to solve immediately.
Igor Thiago's Goal Rush Halts The Bees' Travel Woes
The West London club delivered a showing that belied their troubled away record. Central to their dominant victory was the in-form streak of number nine the goal-getter. The striker's goals are offering a foundation for the team to build on. Teammate the German international even floated the ambitious aspiration of continental football as a potential outcome, underlining the fresh belief in the team.
