Five Talking Points from the Premier League ahead of Gameweek 5
Premier League football returns after the international break, with the marquee clash between Everton and Liverpool starting off the weekend.
1. A competitive Merseyside Derby expected after ages: Hosts Everton have not beaten Liverpool for 10 years now, but this might change this Saturday in the Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park. Everton under Carlo Ancelotti looks a different beast altogether this season and is leading the Premier League table, as it stands. The signings of midfield stars James Rodriguez, Abdoulaye Doucouré, and Allan have turned out to be a masterstroke as expected, with James Rodriguez a clear shout for the signing of the season. The Liverpool defence will have to be at the top of their game or face yet another defeat after the horrific 7–2 thrashing by Aston Villa.
2. Master vs Apprentice at the Etihad Stadium: Pep Guardiola welcomes his ex-assistant Mikel Arteta in the clash between Manchester City and Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. Pep’s side has been struggling defensively of late, but the acquisition of Ruben Dias should provide him with some respite at the back. Arteta, on the other hand, is leading a resurgence of sorts with an Arsenal side that has been under-performing for over a decade now. This match will be played as much in the minds of Pep and Mikel as it will be on the pitch.
3. Can Manchester United salvage some pride against Newcastle United: Manchester United are struggling big time in the league, currently languishing in the 16th position, after embarrassing losses to Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur. The defenders have been terrible, to say the least, and it would come as a shock to know that since 2014, the club has spent over £300m on defenders, with a major chunk on the undeserving captain Harry Maguire. The forward line looks out-of-sorts too, and the Old Trafford faithful would be hoping that Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood recover form in this match, considering new recruit Edinson Cavani is unavailable for selection for this one.
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4. Two former Manchester United managers collide in the London Derby: David Moyes’ West Ham United will travel the short distance to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to take on Jose Mourinho’s side buoyant after their impressive win against Manchester United. Both managers have suffered a loss of reputation after their stint with United, but seem on a revival course this season, helped by astute signings. This match could see Gareth Bale finally start for Jose’s side this season, with fans eagerly waiting to see the superstar playing football, and not golf for once. If he does well, Moyes’ side could face the same embarrassment his former side Manchester United faced a fortnight ago against Spurs.
5. Leeds United looking to build on their momentum against Wolves: Marcelo Bielsa’s Championship winning team is taking the Premier League by storm, after winning two games against fellow-promoted side Fulham and Yorkshire rivals Sheffield United. Leeds United would also consider themselves very unlucky to not take anything from their game against Liverpool, ultimately losing 4–3. In their last game before the international break, Leeds United did exceedingly well to draw against Manchester City. They face another strong team in Wolves, but going by their performances so far this season, it wouldn’t come as a shock if the Championship holders win this one and announce themselves in the fray for the European slots next season.
