Goal Keeper:
David de Gea:
There have been doubts about David de Gea this season as Manchester United still adjust to the new regime, but the goalkeeper was superb this summer and in an age in which the Spanish goalkeepers are on the decline, de Gea has a great chance of becoming international number one. He made several good saves at the weekend, including a world class save from Leon Osman in the last minute, while he also stopped Leighton Baines from the spot.
Defence:
Branislav Ivanovic:
Arsenal were far from the team that rolled over at Stamford Bridge last season and they looked more dangerous going forward. However the Chelsea defence coped well and Branislav Ivanovic once again showed his composure at the back. He offers a lot in the right back position as he is solid, strong, dominant and he can go forwards and make a few contributions. He made a lot of good interceptions and tackles this weekend.
Vincent Kompany:
Manchester City looked a lot better at the back this weekend and it was a brilliant performance from the captain that really aided that. The Belgian is without doubt the best central defender in the league and he showed that as he gave a dominating performance to give his side a platform to win away from home. They lost this fixture last season, therefore it was no means a certainty that they were going to win, especially with their own defensive frailties, but they did and the performance of Kompany was a big reason for that.
Eliaquim Mangala:
The Champions’ defence was so impressive that I felt the need to include both central defenders. Mangala had an awful game last week against Hull, it was brave for Manuel Pellegrini to keep him in the side, but he did just that and the Frenchman repaid his manager with an excellent display. The recovery from last week shows the mental strength of Mangala. Alongside Kompany, he will thrive and City could have the best defence in the league, making them serious contenders to retain their title.
Danny Rose:
Tottenham managed to beat an in form Southampton which was an achievement, while Danny Rose continued his good form this season. He has been excellent both defensively and offensively as his pace causes lot of problems, while it also allows him to make up for any defensive errors he makes. Last season he was disliked by the Spurs’ supporters, now he has confirmed himself as first choice ahead of Ben Davies, which may be a result of Mauricio Pochettino’s style of play.
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