Five things to look out for in the Premier League this weekend.
With the Premier League back in full swing following an extended international break we have targeted five potential talking points to keep an eye out for in this round of matches.
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5. Villa’s chance to end their goal drought
Despite losing their last three games the Villans have enjoyed a relatively good start to the campaign. A tough run of fixtures against four of last season’s top five has made it hard to judge exactly where they’re at. However, coming up against an out of form Everton will give them a chance to get back on track and start adding to that goal difference that took a hit of nine against with no replies. Christian Benteke’s return has come at the ideal time and Paul Lambert’s men must now be champing at the bit to show that they can do.
4. Testing Tottenham’s credentials
Eleven of the 27 goals that Tottenham conceded against top four sides last season were scored by Manchester City, and this season Manuel Pellegrini’s men are in no mood to be playing catch up to a seriously strong Chelsea side that already seen intent on extending their lead at the top of the league. However, Mauricio Pochettino has got his side working hard off the ball and will present a whole new challenge this time around.
3. ‘Arry’s last stand
A huge slump in form has seen the Super Hoops propping up the rest of the league in 20th, which is not good enough considering how much they spent (again) during the summer. Rumours have already begun to circulate that the club are targeting a replacement for the one-time England candidate as he continues to look increasingly disinterested in the job. A defeat this weekend could be the last straw for the board, meaning Redknapp will be on the scrapheap before the season reaches its halfway point.
2. A true test for United’s frail back line
United’s problems at the back have been well documented this season, as their injury crisis continues to hamper their recovery. Their outstanding attacking intent has seen them through the past few weeks, but they are still vulnerable at the back. With that in mind, enter Saido Berahino – West Brom’s starlet striker who has scored five goals in seven appearances so far this term and has the capability to give United’s rookie defence some serious problems. How they deal with him will give a big indicator of where they’re at.
1. Hull to take advantage of Arsenal’s injury crisis
Arsenal have given glimpses at how good they can be this season, but an almighty plague of injuries has threatened to derail their title challenge. Hull, who have strengthened well over the summer have not enjoyed the start they would have been hoping for, but they can really give their season a push if they are able to capitalise on Arsenal’s missing stars and pile more misery on Arsene Wenger.
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