🔗 Share this article

This past batch of English action provided plenty of intrigue, surprise results, and fascinating storylines. From clashes between coaches to star performances, here are the primary points emerging from the matches.

The Chelsea Boss Makes a Statement Against Pep Guardiola

The Chelsea manager's unexpected battle with Pep Guardiola recalled thoughts of previous David vs Goliath coaching battles. For the Chelsea boss, taking charge for his first-team coaching bow, the challenge was overcoming his side's astonishingly bad recent record against the champions. A dramatic equaliser from the Chelsea star snatched a crucial point, something previous coaches had struggled to achieve.

2. Liverpool's Failure to Close Games Out

Even with the German playmaker finding the net, the Merseyside club were left aggrieved after allowing a lead evaporate at the Cottagers. The problem of failing to command games when ahead continues, with the side previously letting slip identical margins in previous matches. Until Slot's men discover the art of seeing out a game, the season is likely to stay a challenging affair.

3. Rice Shows Faith In The Swedish Striker to Fire

The Swedish forward is experiencing a notable goal drought from open play, but his fellow star Declan Rice has stressed the forward is still hugely influential. He highlighted Gyökeres' hold-up play and team-oriented efforts as integral to the league leaders success. "Success are going to follow," was Rice's supportive message for his misfiring strike partner.

The United Boss Requires Benjamin Sesko to Improve

Given Manchester United adopting in a notably defensive way, the burden was placed on the attacking pair to make the difference. Whereas Matheus Cunha continued his fine performances, the summer signing suffered another frustrating game. The Slovenian has hit the net hard to come by since his high-profile move and wasted a excellent opportunity to snatch the contest. January offers a clear need for the striker to find his confidence.

The Sunderland Star Leaves Ange Postecoglou's Side in a Muddle

The Sunderland manager deployed the French midfielder in a more defensive role to start, before unleashing him into advanced areas as the game wore on. The decision proved masterful, with Le Fée becoming the architect of Sunderland's push for an equaliser. After hitting the post, the midfielder provided a perfect through ball for the all-important goal. Having settled in to the intensity of the top flight, his campaign is on the rise.

The West Ham Manager Fails to Take Opportunity to Bed In New Signing

During an embarrassing loss for West Ham, boss Nuno Espírito Santo chose against utilize any of his permitted substitutes. This meant January recruit Pablo Felipe, who remained unused despite his club's complete ineffectiveness. He felt it would have been "unfair" to throw the new striker into the action. But, with scoring at a dearth, the need to blood the 22-year-old quickly is glaringly clear.

7. Miley States Another Major Claim

The teenage sensation turned in yet another superb display whilst playing at right-back. The youngster was excellent in his own half, set up the breakthrough, and set the standard in a untidy affair. Now that first-choice full-backs back, the dilemma for coach Eddie Howe is how to include the incredibly composed teenager in his preferred engine room role. "Next Magpies sides will certainly be built on him," seems an increasingly safe assessment.

Could the New Manager Bounce Running Out at Forest?

The manager's first influence at the club was admirable, but doubts are now arise about the side's versatility. Forest's transition ability remains, but looks diminished in the absence of previous players. Whilst disciplined when sitting back, they have looked vulnerable when required to chase a game. Giving the ball away in those situations has been punishing, a problem they have to rectify quickly.

Igor Thiago's Goal Rush Halts The Bees' Travel Woes

Brentford delivered a performance that contradicted their troubled away record. Key to their dominant win was the prolific scoring of striker the Brazilian. His presence are offering a foundation for the team to progress. Winger Kevin Schade even suggested the optimistic dream of European qualification as a possibility, emphasizing the renewed belief in the camp.

The Clarets