The Week in EPL: Manchester United, Arsenal drop points; Sergio Aguero sinks Tottenham

After Luis Suarez’ departure this summer, Aguero was christened by many pundits as the best player in the Premier League and the Argentine is duly living up to the expectations. The speedy striker has already notched up nine goals in eight appearances and is looking every bit the best forward in the league.

It is the quick movement and lethal finishing that sets him apart from the rest and brings back fond memories of those devastating performances from his South American counterpart last season.

Tadic and Pelle star in 8-0 romp of Sunderland

Southampton’s mauling of Sunderland at Saint Mary’s on Saturday was a shock to everyone including Saints manager Ronald Koeman. He had over 15 players away on International duty last week and was left as surprised as everyone else with level of energy and creativity shown by his side.

In stark contrast, Sunderland manager Gus Poyet was left dumbfounded by an invigorated home side that were out to prove to the rest of the league that they belong near the summit of the table. Santiago Vergini’s comical own goal in the first half reiterated Poyet’s comments after the game that this was by far his worst moment on a football pitch throughout his entire career.

Despite being involved in the controversial game in midweek between Serbia and Albania, Tadic was at his all-round best as he put on a sparkling display of vision, technique and creativity for ninety minutes, playing the role of tormentor-in-chief, adding 4 assists and a goal to his name. The midfielder is finally showing signs of the performances that earned him rave reviews in the Dutch league last season.

Fresh from netting on debut for the Azzuri in midweek, Italian striker Graziano Pelle added two more goals to take his Premier League tally to 6 on Saturday. His performance was somewhat overshadowed by the excellent Tadic, however, with every game the Italian striker is appearing to be the bargain buy of the summer.

Ronald Koeman has got his team playing some dazzling football at times this season. He has expressed a desire to allow his midfielders to play with absolute freedom that is reflecting in the teams performances till date. Players like Nathaniel Clyne, Ryan Bertrand, Jack Cork and Steven Davis are really coming to fore now and everything looks rosy for the south-coast club despite all the trepidation surrounding the start of the season.
Man United, Arsenal produce lacklustre performances

Manchester United and Arsenal had to rely on late goals to manage a draw against West Bromwich Albion and Hull City. Former Manchester United man Danny Welbeck was the scorer once again as Arsene Wenger’s side dropped precious points in the ever-intriguing battle for fourth spot.

The Gunners took the lead after Alexis Sanchez’ slaloming run put them ahead early in the second half. However, their makeshift defence was left exposed as Mohammed Diame pegged the Tigers back almost instantaneously, while new summer signing Abel Hernandez headed past Szczesny early in the second half. Despite being the dominant team, Arsenal were left frustrated as they were unable to create as many chances.

Even though Manchester United controlled most of the possession and created more chances, they had to rely on a late equaliser from Dutch midfielder Daley Blind to bring the side level. In the end, a draw is probably a fair reflection on the game as the Baggies put in a brilliant effort of heart and grit. Saido Berahino is really making a name for himself this season and his performances must not go unnoticed by England manager Roy Hodgson.

For Van Gaal and United however, it is back to the drawing board as this was yet another blip in what is turning out to be another transitional season for the Red Devils. The attack looks solid, but the defensive side needs some serious work over the next couple of months and it remains to be seen how Van Gaal and his troops cope after this latest scare.