Premier League: 10 Key Talking Points from the Latest Round of Action

The most recent batch of English fixtures provided plenty of drama, surprise results, and interesting subplots. From clashes between managers to individual brilliance, we examine the key points stemming from the games.

The Chelsea Boss Stands Firm Against Pep Guardiola

The young coach's unexpected confrontation with Pep Guardiola brought back recollections of past managerial mismatches. For McFarlane, embarking on his top-level management debut, the mission was halting Chelsea's dreadful recent record when playing the champions. A dramatic equaliser from the Argentine midfielder secured a valuable draw, an achievement past managers had found it tough to do.

2. Liverpool's Failure to Close Games Out

Despite their big-money signing scoring the net, Liverpool finished frustrated after allowing a advantage slip away against the Cottagers. The problem of not managing to command games when in front persists, with the side almost letting slip identical margins in recent weeks. Until Slot's men learn the knack of defending a lead, the campaign is likely to stay a frustrating one.

The Arsenal Midfielder Supports Gyökeres to Fire

Viktor Gyökeres is experiencing a significant dry spell from general play, but his teammate the Gunners lynchpin insists the forward is nevertheless vitally influential. Rice pointed to his hold-up play and team-oriented performances as integral to Arsenal's success. "Good things are bound to come," was Rice's confident assessment for his misfiring strike partner.

The United Boss Needs The Slovenian to Find His Edge

Given Ruben Amorim's team adopting in a incredibly conservative manner, the responsibility rested with the forward duo to produce. Whereas Matheus Cunha persisted with his excellent form, his strike partner suffered another forgettable afternoon. He has hit the net elusive since his big-money move and spurned a late opening to win the game. January offers a obvious need for the striker to discover his confidence.

Enzo Le Fée Leaves Spurs in a Muddle

The Black Cats boss used Enzo Le Fée in a deeper role initially, before releasing him into advanced areas as the match developed. The decision proved a masterstroke, with the playmaker turning into the architect of his team's push for an equaliser. After glancing the upright, the midfielder delivered a exquisite pass for the all-important strike. Now settled in to the intensity of the Premier League, his influence is on the rise.

The West Ham Manager Misses Chance to Use Pablo Felipe

Amid an embarrassing loss for West Ham, boss the Portuguese coach chose against use any of his permitted replacements. Among them was new signing Pablo Felipe, who stayed on the bench despite his team's chronic failure to score. Nuno suggested it would have been "too harsh" to introduce the recently-arrived striker into the match. Yet, with goals at a premium, the need to assimilate the youngster quickly is abundantly clear.

7. Miley States Another Big Case

The 19-year-old delivered another exceptional showing while filling in in an unfamiliar role. The youngster was excellent in his defensive duties, created the opening goal, and set the standard in a untidy match. Now that specialist right-backs back, the question for boss Eddie Howe is whether to include the astonishingly talented player in his best central midfield position. "Coming Toon sides will certainly be designed with the lad," seems an ever more fair assessment.

Are the Dyche Effect Running Out at Forest?

Sean Dyche's initial impact at the club was notable, but questions are starting to arise about the side's plan B. Forest's counter-attacking threat exists, but seems reduced in the absence of previous players. While well-organised when defending deep, Dyche's men have looked vulnerable when forced to open up. Giving the ball away in these circumstances has proven punishing, a issue they need to address rapidly.

The Striker's Hot Streak Ends Brentford's Away-Day Blues

Brentford delivered a showing that belied their poor form on the road. Vital to their commanding display was the in-form form of striker the Brazilian. His presence are giving a platform for the squad to progress. Teammate he even mentioned the optimistic aspiration of continental football as a target, underlining the renewed belief within the squad.

10. Burnley