Coral’s team of the weekend
Published:
Top 11 from Sunday’s final round
The curtain went down on the Premier League season on Sunday, and although we didn’t quite have the last day drama that has made this division famous over the years, there was certainly no end of year feel about things.
With the real possibility of teams easing down towards the flag, football fans were surprised to see a free-scoring Sunday, with all but four of the 20 teams finding the net at least once. Tottenham were the most impressive side of the day, again, hammering Hull City 7-1 at the KCOM. Anyone left in doubt of just how good the Londoners are, or those who thought it a bit harsh on The Tigers going down, are now firmly in the picture.
We are currently running over the form and figures, putting together our team of the season, but before that there’s just time to round up our best 11 from Sunday. As mentioned, the attacking players shone brightest, so we were left a bit top-heavy. Let’s see who made the cut…..
Goalkeeper: Jack Butland (Stoke)
Most goalkeepers were beaten at one point or another on Sunday, but not Stoke shot-stopper Jack Butland. The keeper kept a clean-sheet away to Southampton, and was a deserving winner of the man of the match award, pulling off a string of quality saves.
Defender: Kieran Trippier (Tottenham)
The talented right back was an important part in the best side of the day. His team scored seven goals, and he got forward to set up one for Harry Kane and put in a tireless shift, getting up and down the flank. Pulled his weight at both ends.
Defender: Vincent Kompany (Man City)
The captain scored a big goal for The Citizens, getting up to nod in the opener inside five minutes, settling any nerves at Watford. As well as that bonus, he was also the leader in a defensive unit that did the boring bit, snuffing out any rare attacks from the hosts.
Defender: John Terry (Chelsea)
Annoyed just about everyone who wasn’t wearing blue by coming off after 26 minutes to a guard of honour, which he admitted was his own idea. The defender has become a legend with fans, but has made his share of enemies over the years. We respect that finish, bowing out at the bridge causing a scene.
Defender: Ben Davies (Tottenham)
Another fantastic performance in a fantastic team. Davies did his bit at the back, when called upon, and went down the other end near the finish to score a fine goal, the best of the day in fact, and that’s saying something.
Midfielder: Josh Harrop (Man Utd)
Given a chance by manager Jose Mourinho to go and announce his name on the big stage, and the youngster proved himself ready, scoring the game’s first goal. We may have seen the end of Rooney’s time at Old Trafford, but witnessed the birth of a new star.
Midfielder: Leon Britton (Swansea)
Swansea dragged themselves into 15th, beating West Brom to end a strong finish to the season. Britton rolled up his sleeves and grafted for the cause all afternoon, being the first line of defence in the middle of the park. Ran himself into the ground.
Midfielder: Dan Gosling (Bournemouth)
Another who caught the eye on work rate alone. He showed real intelligence on the ball, always picking the right pass at the right time, and came very close to getting a goal for himself, which would’ve been nothing short of what he deserved.
Forward: Philippe Coutinho (Liverpool)
Coutinho is a player and a half for The Reds, and scored a fabulous goal in a solid win, gifting his side a top-four finish, and place in next season’s Champions League. Always wanted the ball, a man who must be a joy to play alongside. Can be trusted to pull something out of nothing.
Forward: Harry Kane (Tottenham)
We’re not even going to tell you how good Kane was, everyone knows the young man’s pedigree by now. He’s getting better and better, and finished up with the golden boot. Some thought that ‘best striker in the world’ comment was over the top – not a chance!
Forward: Willian (Chelsea)
Has played his best football this season in blue, and by some stretch too. Willian scored after just eight minutes to get his side back into the day, and that goal changed the course of the game, putting Chelsea on easy street.
