Premier League team of the week
Published:
The stars who shone brightest in round 25
Chelsea missed a chance to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League, but it was not an off-day for The Blues, they just came up against a determined Burnley who are flying at home.
There is an argument for Conte giving Fabregas more time on the pitch, and more of a starring role, as the Londoners lacked a spark of creativity on Sunday. That may have changed the result, perhaps not.
We run through our team of the weekend. It is always a hot-topic on Monday, so feel free to leave your opinions. We welcome both good praise and excellent praise, but don’t call our tactics into question or the fourth official gets it…..
Formation 4-3-3
Goalkeeper: Victor Valdes (Middlesbrough)
The shot-stopper was in great form at the weekend, and earned his Boro side a much-needed point. He pulled off three cracking saves to keep a hard-working Everton out.
Defender: Matt Lowton (Burnley)
As well as a brave backs-to-the-wall performance, Matt Lowton, who is comfortable anywhere across the back, also charged forward and almost got his side in front. Part of a solid defence.
Defender: Michael Keane (Burnley)
Another who played out of his skin at Turf Moor on Sunday to wrestle a share of the spoils from Conte and co. The talented youngster has a big career ahead of him in the game.
Defender: Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal)
The Gunners defender may not have had the toughest of assignments fending off Hull at the Emirates, but he stuck to his task well and inspires confidence in a backline that needs it.
Defender: Alfie Mawson (Swansea)
23-year-old Mawson didn’t put a foot wrong all afternoon. Composed and calm in defence, he showed flair at the other end to score a peach of an opener for The Swans.
Midfielder: Robert Snodgrass (West Ham)
Fans have taken to their new boy and the Scotsman almost got himself on the scoresheet early. He’s a ball of energy in the middle, assisting in attack, while making a nuisance of himself in defence.
Midfielder: Nemanja Matic (Chelsea)
Did the thankless work against Burnley, breaking down play in the middle of the park, helping stamp out any counter-attacks. He also bustled his way forward as an attacking threat when needed.
Midfielder: Sofiane Feghouli (West Ham)
West Ham needed bite going forward, with Carroll out, and Feghouli gave them it, scoring the equaliser, having another cut-off, and getting up and down the wing, putting in a tireless display.
Forward: Sadio Mane (Liverpool)
The difference between the sides at Anfield, scoring two goals in quick succession to see off Spurs. The Reds will be eager to get him in that mood more often.
Forward: Manolo Gabbiadini (Southampton)
Looks a real find for the Saints and he carried on from his impressive debut by firing in two first-half goals. The £14m buy from Napoli now has three for his new employers, with more expected.
Forward: Anthony Martial (Man Utd)
Scored the second goal against Watford at Old Trafford and set-up the opener for Mata. The 21-year-old has given Mourinho plenty to think about with that performance.
