Five things we’ve learnt from the latest round of Premier League action.
With some tough clashes at the bottom, and some major talking points occurring at the top of the table, this weekend’s round of games have furthered the proof that we are in the midst of a tricky season for all involved. But what did we learn this week, what was so obviously clear that you need a post telling you about it? Well, let’s find out…
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5. Santi’s back in town!
The diminutive Spaniard earned himself a whole heap of criticism earlier this season for his lacklustre showings, but after following up his previous strong outing with another one against West Brom on Saturday, he has shown that all it took was to move him into the middle.
Lining up alongside Aaron Ramsey, he has proved that he knows when to push and when to sit – something that cohort Jack Wilshere has yet to figure out when deployed next to the Welshman. His intelligence means that Arsenal aren’t exposed in the middle when they do attack, and another assist will give him that extra shot in the arm.
4. United back on form
After a shaky start to the season, United now look to have put the worst behind them as they look to reclaim their place in the Champions League next term.
United comfortably saw off the challenge from Hull in a comfortable 3-0 win, and more importantly they managed to do it without Angel Di Maria, whose involvement was ended after just 14 minutes through injury.
And though Ander Herrera stepped up easily enough, there are questions as to how they’ll do without the Argentine. Having a strong central base of Fellaini and Carrick will help steady the ship, but what will they offer in terms of creativity?
3. Yaya looks dominant again
It wasn’t a vintage display from Toure by any means, but he did at least begin to show signs that he could soon be back to his best during the win over Southampton.
In the early stages he carried the ball through the middle with intent and lived up to his strongest attributes throughout. Drawing fouls and yellow cards for Wanyama and Schneiderlin ensured that City’s midfield were able to run the show without being under much pressure at all.
2. Austin for England!
The QPR ace now has seven goals under his belt this season (with none coming from the spot!) and his proficiency in front of goal could be the difference between what keeps the west Londoners up above the rest of the division’s strugglers.
Austin and QPR now have more home goals than any other side in the bottom half of the Premier League, and with a few months left until the next England game he could put himself in a very strong position to win a call up to Roy Hodgson’s Three Lions squad.
1. It may not be an easy ride for Chelsea after all!
So far Chelsea have been a tour de force this season, and though they are still odds on to lift the Premier League title come May, they showed this week that they are by no means untouchable.
With continuous talk of the Blues going unbeaten for the rest of the campaign, the Black Cats showed that with the right approach the Champions elect can be shaken, stirred, and poured into a Martini glass to be swallowed down just like any other team in the division.
Title rivals should take note!
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