Premier League: Five things to look out for this weekend
A look ahead to another weekend of Premier League action
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Benteke draws swords with old teammates
This will be the first time Christian Benteke lines up against his former teammates since leaving for Selhurst Park in the summer. If the Belgian’s recent form is anything to go by, the Liverpool backline could be in for quite an eventful match. Having endured a frustrating spell at Anfield, the forward has gone on to thrive at Crystal Palace, netting three times for the club in the new term. After being pushed to the periphery under Jurgen Klopp, Benteke now has the opportunity to get his own back.
Former adversaries face off
After the blood, sweat and tears that went into Leicester and Tottenham’s title race last season, the two sides now meet at White Hart Lane on relatively unceremonious ground. Little more than six months ago, Leicester and the Lillywhites were the fiercest of foes as both sides, rather unbelievably, chased down Premier League glory.
Six months later, the two sides face off on Saturday with the dramatic circumstances of their rivalry fading away. It’s a case of back to basics as Claudio Ranieri’s men attempt to steady the ship while Mauricio Pochettino’s team look for their first win in four. Although it may be hard to shake off the symbolism surrounding Saturday’s game, all those involved will be looking forward to what is to come while refusing to dwell on what has been.
Can Everton stop the rot?
The Toffees are without a win in their last five games and are starting to show signs of cracking. Maarten Stekelenburg started the season brightly but a dip in form has suggested that the Dutchman might not be what the fans were after.
Elsewhere within the team, Ross Barkley continues to face criticism for failing to deliver on his potential. Ronald Koeman recently admitted that the Englishman is “no longer a young talent” while former Toffee man Leon Osman stated that the 22-year-old needs more ‘consistency’. Everton face West Ham on Sunday, who have now won their last three games, and a victory would certainly help alleviate mounting concerns.
Chelsea can't get carried away
After the ecstasy of their 4-0 victory over Manchester United, Chelsea face an altogether different challenge on Sunday as they travel to St Mary’s. Southampton remain unbeaten in the league or cup in their last seven games, having conceded just one goal.
The Saints are proving notoriously difficult to break down, with Jose Fonte and Virgil van Dijk dominating in recent performances. Up front, Charlie Austin is enjoying a rich vein of form, with seven goals to his name in all competitions. Sunday won’t be easy for Antonio Conte’s players and after the dizzy success of last weekend, the Blues now need to tread carefully.
The gritty reality of English football is kicking in for Guardiola
After City were beaten 1-0 by United on Wednesday, Pep Guardiola slumped to his sixth game without a win – a new and rather unwelcome career for the game’s supposed greatest manager. After the side’s flashy start to the season, the gritty, dirty reality of English football is slowly starting to kick in. The Manchester side travel to West Brom on Saturday in search of their first victory since September but given the Baggies’ propensity for 1-1 draws, don’t be too surprised if all three points once again elude City.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments