Introduction
Following each round of Premier League fixtures this season, BBC football analyst Troy Deeney presents his selections for the team and manager of the week.
Below are this week’s picks. Share your opinions using the comments section at the bottom of the page.
Goalkeeper
Matz Sels (Nottingham Forest): Sels delivered a crucial performance in a match where Nottingham Forest needed to elevate their game against Chelsea. His penalty save was pivotal, and despite numerous team changes, he maintained composure and steadiness, instilling confidence as a commanding presence in goal. This performance contributed significantly to Forest securing safety, a result unexpected before the match.
Defenders
Vitalii Mykolenko (Everton): While Jake O'Brien attracted attention for scoring and other defenders received bookings, Mykolenko effectively neutralized Antoine Semenyo, preventing any threat from his side during Everton’s 3-3 draw with Manchester City. He avoided bookings and executed important tackles, ensuring no significant danger came down his flank.
Micky van de Ven (Tottenham): In a critical match that Spurs needed to win, van de Ven was instrumental in their victory over Aston Villa. Despite conceding a late goal from Emi Buendia, he used his pace to recover multiple times, made significant tackles, and demonstrated leadership qualities that have been less evident previously.
Marcos Senesi (Bournemouth): Senesi has been outstanding throughout the season and was a key figure in Bournemouth’s impressive win against Crystal Palace. His dominance in defense raises questions about whether Bournemouth can retain him moving forward.
Midfielders
Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United): Comparing his performances from the start to the latter part of the season reveals a marked improvement, highlighting the positive impact of support and care. While it is premature to label Mainoo as a standout player, his display against Liverpool was his best in a United shirt, featuring dominance, crucial tackles, forward passing, play disruption, and goal contribution, culminating in a comprehensive performance.
Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool): Despite Liverpool’s overall poor season, Szoboszlai has consistently delivered notable performances, including a goal and an assist at Old Trafford. His individual form has enhanced his reputation amid the club’s struggles.
Conor Gallagher (Tottenham): Though James Garner was considered, Gallagher’s impact in a vital match for Spurs earned him the spot. He scored an important goal and, under Roberto de Zerbi’s pressing and energetic style, has proven to be a valuable acquisition for both the current season and the future.
Mathys Tel (Tottenham): Initially perceived as an overrated signing, Tel has transformed his approach since the new year, demonstrating maturity and commitment. He has contributed significantly by advancing play and providing assists, exemplified by his precise cross for Richarlison’s goal.
Jeremy Doku (Manchester City): Doku’s inclusion was uncertain until his late-match heroics, scoring two remarkable goals with both feet. Although his style can be frustrating due to excessive trickery, these decisive strikes have revitalized Manchester City’s season, keeping their title hopes alive despite Arsenal’s favored position.
Forwards
Viktor Gyokeres (Arsenal): Gyokeres contributed two goals and an assist against Fulham, responding to calls for greater output. With 21 goals across all competitions, his efforts merit recognition.
Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest): In only his second start this season, Awoniyi delivered a commanding performance against Chelsea, scoring twice. His display contrasted with earlier struggles, showing significant improvement and power.
Manager
Vitor Pereira (Nottingham Forest): Selecting the manager of the week was challenging, with contenders including David Moyes and Mikel Arteta. However, Pereira’s bold decision to make eight changes against Chelsea paid off, galvanizing his team to a confident and assertive victory over a struggling opponent.
Conclusion
Do you agree with Troy Deeney’s selections? Who would you include in your Premier League Team of the Week? Share your views using the comments form below.
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