Each week, BBC football analyst Troy Deeney presents his Premier League Team of the Week.
Here are Deeney’s selections for this week’s top performers. Do you concur? Share your opinions in the comments section below.
Bernd Leno (Fulham): Leno’s late, game-saving stop secured a point for Fulham in their 0-0 draw, marking it as the weekend’s finest save. While Fulham appeared to be fading, Leno, along with Joachim Andersen, delivered crucial performances against a dominant Brentford side.
Adrien Truffert (Bournemouth): Often overlooked, Truffert’s contribution has been significant. Although Alex Jimenez has drawn attention filling Milos Kerkez’s role, Truffert has excelled as a full-back. His powerful, energetic performance in the 2-1 victory over Newcastle, combined with solid defending and the winning goal, earns him a spot.
Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool): Captaining your team in the Merseyside derby and scoring the decisive late goal secures your place in the team.
Joachim Andersen (Fulham): Andersen, alongside Leno, is recognized for his pivotal role in Fulham’s clean sheet against Brentford, earning them a valuable point. Their solid performances were instrumental in key moments.
Nico O’Reilly (Man City): Praised by Pep Guardiola as a top young talent, O’Reilly is lauded for his consistent performances throughout the season.
Despite attention on Bruno Fernandes, O’Reilly has been outstanding, contributing nine goals from the left-back position.
His versatility, playing as a number 10, covering central midfield, and filling in at left-back, highlights his exceptional value to the team. His likely role as England’s starting left-back at the World Cup reflects his sensational form, deserving of the title ‘wonderkid’ as Manchester City’s standout player.
Xavi Simons (Tottenham): While his goal celebration against Brighton seemed excessive, Simons’ quality, including a crucial assist and goal, offers a lifeline for Spurs in their battle against relegation.
Despite concerns about their survival, consistent performances like that from Simons will be crucial. Improved defending is also necessary to secure wins rather than draws.
Bernardo Silva (Man City): In a pivotal match against Arsenal, Silva outshone both Ballon d’Or winner Rodri and Declan Rice, demonstrating his dominance.
His understanding of the game’s requirements and his determination to secure victory were evident, notably in an 83rd-minute header against Viktor Gyokeres.
Silva’s leadership and quality on the ball make him an irreplaceable asset for Manchester City.
Rayan Cherki (Man City): Deeney’s favorite player, Cherki’s skill and agility were on full display against Arsenal as he evaded Gabriel and Rice with ease.
His ability to seamlessly switch between feet makes him unpredictable and a constant threat. Guardiola’s discovery of this 22-year-old talent adds to Manchester City’s already formidable young team.
Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingam Forest): A hat-trick, even against Burnley, earns Gibbs-White a spot in the team of the week, marking a captain’s performance.
Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa): Despite potential fatigue from European competition, Watkins delivered with two goals in Aston Villa’s 4-3 victory over Sunderland, warranting consideration for a return to the England squad.
Erling Haaland (Man City): Despite scoring the winner against Arsenal, Haaland’s overall performance was his best in a Manchester City shirt, showcasing physical strength and a great battle with Gabriel and William Saliba.
His link-up play, runs in behind, defensive contributions, and set-piece prowess, alongside the winning goal, highlight his exceptional performance in a crucial match.
Pep Guardiola (Man City): While attention focused on the pressure on Mikel Arteta and Arsenal, Guardiola faced even greater pressure leading Manchester City.
As one of the greatest managers, with the opportunity to win the league and defeat Arsenal, Guardiola’s pressure was significant.
His tactical maneuvering, evident in his late substitutions, demonstrated his control of the game.
Unlike managers who make pre-set substitutions that disrupt momentum, Guardiola’s decisions maintained his team’s advantage.
A title win this season would be particularly rewarding for Guardiola, silencing critics and potentially securing a domestic treble.
Do you agree with Troy’s selections? Who would make your Team of the Week? Share your thoughts using the comments form below:
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