Top-Flight Football: Ten Crucial Takeaways from the Weekend's Fixtures
The latest round of Premier League fixtures provided plenty of drama, shock outcomes, and compelling narratives. From clashes between bosses to personal masterclasses, we examine the key points coming out of the games.
Calum McFarlane Makes a Statement Against A Master Tactician
Calum McFarlane's unexpected battle with the celebrated tactician evoked thoughts of past David vs Goliath coaching battles. For the debutant, making his top-level maiden game, the challenge was overcoming the Blues' woeful recent record versus Manchester City. A last-gasp equaliser from the Argentine midfielder secured a crucial draw, an achievement previous incumbents had found it tough to accomplish.
Arne Slot's Failure to Close Games Out
Even with their big-money signing finding the net, Liverpool ended up aggrieved after surrendering a lead slip against Marco Silva's side. The issue of failing to command matches when in front continues, with the side almost squandering comparable margins in recent weeks. Until Slot's men learn the knack of defending a lead, the quest promises to be a difficult process.
3. Rice Backs Viktor Gyökeres to Fire
Arsenal's striker is going through a notable run without scoring from live action, but his teammate the England international is adamant the number nine is nonetheless vitally influential. The midfielder pointed to his work off the ball and team-oriented contributions as key to Mikel Arteta's side form. "The goals are going to arrive," was the midfielder's optimistic assessment for his struggling strike partner.
4. Amorim Must Get The Slovenian to Find His Edge
With the Red Devils setting up in a notably conservative way, the onus was placed on the attacking partnership to produce. Whereas the Brazilian maintained his impressive run, his strike partner suffered another frustrating outing. The Slovenian has scored scarce since his major switch and missed a golden opportunity to snatch the match. The coming months provides a pressing need for him to find his scoring touch.
5. Le FĂ©e Leaves Spurs in a State of Confusion
RĂ©gis Le Bris positioned the French midfielder in a more defensive role at first, before unleashing him further forward as the match developed. The decision proved a masterstroke, with Le FĂ©e becoming the architect of the visitor's push for an leveler. After glancing the post, the midfielder delivered a exquisite assist for the all-important finish. Now found his feet to the pace of the Premier League, his campaign is on the rise.
Nuno EspĂrito Santo Fails to Take Chance to Introduce Pablo Felipe
During an woeful loss for the London club, manager Nuno EspĂrito Santo decided against use any of his available substitutes. This meant recent acquisition the forward, who watched on even with his team's utter ineffectiveness. He suggested it would have been "too harsh" to throw the fresh player into the action. But, with firepower at a dearth, the need to blood the 22-year-old as soon as possible is glaringly clear.
7. Miley States Another Big Claim
The 19-year-old turned in yet another outstanding showing whilst filling in out of position. The youngster was flawless in his defensive duties, set up the first goal, and set the standard in a untidy match. Now that specialist full-backs returning, the dilemma for coach Eddie Howe is how to fit the incredibly mature player in his preferred engine room role. "Future Toon teams will undoubtedly be designed on the lad," seems an ever more fair assessment.
Could the New Manager Bounce Running Out at Forest?
The former Burnley boss's initial impact at Forest was positive, but concerns are now emerge about the side's plan B. Their counter-attacking ability exists, but looks reduced without key players. Although disciplined when sitting back, Dyche's men can struggle when forced to open up. Giving the ball away in those moments has proven punishing, a problem they have to solve rapidly.
Igor Thiago's Scoring Form Stops Thomas Frank's Side's Travel Woes
Thomas Frank's team put in a performance that masked their troubled away record. Vital to their impressive victory was the red-hot scoring of striker Igor Thiago. Thiago's finishing are offering a base for the team to progress. Attacker the German international even floated the lofty aspiration of continental football as a potential outcome, underlining the fresh belief within the squad.
