Premier League: 10 talking points from the weekend’s action

1.  “Chelsea’s Entertaining Form Makes Them a Must-Watch in the Premier League”

If ever in doubt, Chelsea is the team to watch. In a remarkable display for the second time in six days, Mauricio Pochettino’s combination of youthful talent and experience delivered an outstanding performance, scoring four goals against another member of the old Big Six in a thrilling 4-4 draw against Manchester City. The match, lasting 105 minutes, felt more like a box-set thriller than a mere soap opera. Despite City taking an early lead through the “Haaland pen,” Chelsea displayed tremendous resilience, securing a 4-4 draw. Cole Palmer’s late goal ensured a share of the points and added his name to the scoresheet alongside Raheem Sterling. Pochettino’s willingness to sell players to other big clubs appears to be working against him, as evidenced by Chelsea’s stellar performances.

2. “Dominic Solanke’s Clear Mind Leads Bournemouth to Victory”

Dominic Solanke’s exceptional form continued as he netted two goals on Saturday, bringing his tally for the league campaign to six. This equals his total from the entire previous season, showcasing the 26-year-old as a high-class Premier League striker. Manager Andoni Iraola praised Solanke for his all-around excellence on and off the ball. Despite missing one chance, Solanke demonstrated poacher instincts with two goals—a fierce shot and a clever improvised flick. His clear mind and consistent contributions make him a pleasure to have leading the line for Bournemouth.

3. “Manchester United’s Academy Gems Shine in Old Trafford Return”

Teden Mengi, a product of Manchester United’s academy, impressed on his return to Old Trafford with Luton. Having joined the club at the age of seven, Mengi showcased his quick and robust defending skills, making a notable impact. Tahith Chong, another former United youth product, joined Mengi as a substitute for Luton. Manchester United’s academy is proving to be one of the best in creating careers in the game, with players like Mengi and Chong making meaningful contributions at different levels.

4.  “Zinchenko’s Versatility Adds Stability and Solutions for Arsenal”

Oleksandr Zinchenko’s defensive commitment and versatility were highlighted in Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Burnley. Although known to be occasionally exposed at left-back, Zinchenko impressed manager Mikel Arteta with his defensive commitment. His real value to Arsenal lies in possession, where he provides solutions by drifting inside. Zinchenko played a pivotal role in the opening goal and scored the third with a clever looping shot, showcasing his importance to Arsenal’s attacking play.

5. “Fulham’s Struggle to Find the Net Despite League Position”

Fulham, despite being six points above the relegation zone, faces a goal-scoring challenge, with only Burnley scoring fewer goals than Marco Silva’s side. The team’s top scorers, João Palhinha and Bobby DeCordova-Reid, share the same goal count as Antonee Robinson’s own goals (2). While Rodrigo Muniz’s injury may open the door for Raúl Jiménez to contribute, Fulham’s diminishing confidence is evident. The team must address its goal-scoring struggles despite its current league position.

6. “Darwin Núñez’s Impact Goes Beyond Scoring for Liverpool”

Despite two disallowed goals, Darwin Núñez’s influence for Liverpool goes beyond scoring. His role in Mohamed Salah’s record-breaking goal showcased Liverpool’s signature attacking style. Manager Jürgen Klopp praised Núñez’s insane work rate in pressing Brentford’s long balls, demonstrating his defensive contribution. Núñez’s all-around performance contributes significantly to Liverpool’s success.

7. “James Ward-Prowse Delivers Crucial Dead-Ball Expertise for West Ham”

James Ward-Prowse’s dead-ball expertise proved decisive for West Ham in a thrilling 3-2 victory against Nottingham Forest. His contributions, including assisting Jarrod Bowen’s equalizer and scoring a crucial goal in injury time, showcased his value in set pieces. Ward-Prowse’s ability to deliver precision set pieces makes him a valuable asset for West Ham and a player deserving of consideration for England’s Euro 2024 qualifiers.

8. “Sheffield United Builds on First Win with Crucial Away Point”

Sheffield United, after securing their first win of the season, continued their positive momentum with a crucial away point against Brighton. Mahmoud Dahoud’s red card provided an opportunity, and Jaydon Bogle capitalized on it with an equalizing goal. Paul Heckingbottom’s team, initially struggling, is now up and running, showing resilience and determination.

9. “Wolves Seek Consistency Amid Underdog Success”

Wolves, having beaten the Premier League’s top two teams at home, are eager to find consistency to climb the table. Gary O’Neil acknowledges that Wolves are at their best when considered underdogs. Despite impressive victories, defeats to Sheffield United and a draw at Luton highlight the need for consistency. Manager Gary O’Neil has guided the team ahead of expectations, and Wolves aim to assert their authority in upcoming matches against Fulham, Burnley, and Arsenal.

10.  “Eberechi Eze Makes Strong Case for England Call-Up”

Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, backed by manager Roy Hodgson, showcased his fitness and skills in his first start since September. Eze’s standout performance in the thrilling 3-2 defeat against Everton prompted Hodgson to endorse his potential call-up for England’s Euro 2024 qualifiers. Despite limited international experience, Eze’s contribution, particularly in set pieces, makes him a valuable option for Gareth Southgate. Hodgson hopes Eze’s impressive display will earn him consideration as an alternative to the injured James Maddison