The Premier League kicked off a new calendar year over the long weekend with another action-packed and exciting fixture list.
Manchester United were tied on points with leaders Liverpool, while Manchester City put on a statement performance against poor Chelsea and Arsenal continued their victory.
Here is a preview of the first 90 mins Premier League Team of the Week in 2021.
David de Gea (GK) – Didn’t keep a clean sheet in Manchester United’s win over Aston Villa, but De Gea looked more like his old self and made some important saves.
Kyle Walker-Peters (RB) – Removed the threat of Sadio Mane admirably and was more than a match for Andrew Robertson in terms of back and forth.
Eric Bailly (CB) – This could be the solution to Manchester United’s defensive problems if he can stay fit. Brings rhythm to the defense and makes a late block particularly crucial to preserve the lead of his team.
Jack Stephens (CB) – Pushed back everything Liverpool had to throw at Southampton on Monday night and put in some vital blocks to keep the Saints ahead.
Kieran Tierney (LB) – Even ignoring his excellent goal in Arsenal’s 4-0 win over West Brom, Tierney put in a strong overall performance as he firmly finds his footing in England.
James Ward-Prowse (CM) – Created Southampton’s first goal and winner for Danny Ings and brought impressive leadership to the midfield with dominant Liverpool in possession.
Tomas Soucek (CM) – Quickly becoming an essential game changer for David Moyes and West Ham, which is not unlike the presence of the Scottish manager with Marouane Fellaini at Everton.
Kevin De Bruyne (AM) – In fact, he operated further forward than usual as a “false nine” and was at the center of all that was good in Manchester City’s demolition of former club Chelsea.
Son Heung-min (RW) – Back on the scoresheet to help Tottenham secure a first win since early December, while carrying an assist in the 3-0 win over Leeds.
Alexandre Lacazette (ST) – Surpass struggling Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang with two more goals to now make four in his last three Premier League appearances.
Phil Foden (LW) – Brought back for only his second Premier League start since October and seized the opportunity with both hands. Chelsea couldn’t live with him or his movement.
For more than Jamie Spencer, follow it on Twitter and Facebook!
