As the Premier League pauses for the October international break, it’s an ideal moment to look back on the early trends and surprises that have defined the season so far. As players shift focus to their national teams, let’s dive into five key takeaways from the latest round of Premier League action and what it could mean for the rest of the campaign.
Tottenham continue to remain inconsistent
Spurs went into halftime with a 2-0 lead at the Amex, seemingly on track for a comfortable three points. Brennan Johnson and James Maddison found the net, putting Ange Postecoglou’s side in a commanding position. However, the second half took a disastrous turn as Fabian Hurzeler’s Seagulls pulled off an astonishing comeback within 18 minutes, thanks to goals from Yankuba Minteh, Georginio Rutter, and Danny Welbeck.
Tottenham came into the match on the back of five consecutive wins in all competitions, but just as they looked to continue their march toward the upper reaches of the table, they once again blew a comfortable lead, highlighting their vulnerability and raising concerns about their ability to maintain consistency throughout the season.
West Ham may have found their mojo
West Ham United captain Michail Antonio, Mohammed Kudus, and Lucas Paquetá all found the net in a commanding 4-1 home victory against Ipswich Town. Before the match against Ipswich, head coach Julen Lopetegui was under pressure as West Ham had gone five games without a win.
The attacking quartet of Kudus, Bowen, Antonio, and Kudus had collectively managed only three goals, highlighting the team’s struggles to reach their full potential. However, this match turned into a goal-fest, providing both Lopetegui and the supporters with a much-needed win. Fans will be hoping this victory marks the beginning of a positive run. If the team can maintain this form, they may very well find themselves in the mix for a top-half finish, turning what started as a troubling campaign into a successful one.
Villa draw buys Ten Hag time
Manchester United has managed to secure only three victories in their first 10 matches across all competitions, with their eight points in the league marking the poorest start to a Premier League season in the club’s history. Only Southampton, currently in 19th place with four goals, has scored fewer times than Manchester United, who have netted just five in the league this season. Furthermore, the Red Devils’ tally of four goals in their first seven matches is their lowest since the 1972-73 season.
The 0-0 draw against Aston Villa may provide a temporary relief for the Dutchman heading into the international break. “It’s a small step forward,” Neville told Sky Sports. “Before the game, if you offered any Man Utd fan, player, or coach a draw, then they would have snapped your hand off.”
Despite the lackluster beginning to the season, Ten Hag, who secured a new contract during the off-season, maintains that he has the full support of the club’s leadership.
Nottingham Forest finding their feet with Nuno
Nottingham Forest held Chelsea to an entertaining 1-1 draw at the Stamford Bridge. Following a goalless yet intense first half, Chris Wood gave Nuno Espirito Santo’s team the lead, but Noni Madueke quickly equalized, leaving the Forest to withstand nearly half an hour with a man advantage after James Ward-Prowse was sent off.
Forest appears set for a tough season in the Premier League, fighting hard for survival, yet they have demonstrated an ability to challenge the ‘Big 6’ clubs. Just a month ago, they stunned Liverpool at Anfield, remaining the only team to have held Arne Slot’s side scoreless after ten matches this season. On Sunday, they nearly secured all three points during their trip to Stamford Bridge.
Wolves may make a decision on Gary O’Neil
Wolves’ latest defeat of the season came against Brentford, losing to the Bees 5-3 at the Gtech Community Stadium. Gary O’Neil has suffered defeats in six of Wolves’ first seven matches in the Premier League this season, placing them at the very bottom of the table.
The report indicates that the 41-year-old might consider reshuffling his defense after conceding a staggering 21 goals this season, a situation worsened by Yerson Mosquera’s long-term injury. Although the Wolves management is currently exercising patience, it is believed that the fixtures in November will be critical for O’Neil’s tenure as head coach.
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Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
