Ahead of every weekend this season I will give you my three thoughts on what’s going on in the Premier League. These might not always be the biggest stories, but rather my personal observations as the games approach each Saturday.
Here’s what makes me somewhat intrigued ahead of Matchday 8.
Back to business after international break
It was only two weeks ago we were whining about another break in the Premier League season, as World Cup qualifying burrowed its way into our domestic league bliss.
But after seeing Iceland qualify for the World Cup, Germany set the standard as Europe’s best team, Brazil finally looking like the Brazil we all love for the first time in a long time, Lionel Messi produce a defining performance that still won’t quiet his brainless detractors, and the U.S. crashing out of a qualifying format designed to make it relatively easy for them, I have to say the international game did provide us with some great moments.
Still, I am happy to get back to the Premier League.
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The plight of Palace and Berahino
A not so wise man – Sportsnet’s Ben Ennis – once educated me on the meaning of the word Schadenfreude. Basically, it means you take great joy in the sorrow of others.
Now, for a while I genuinely felt sorry for Crystal Palace, who have endured an abhorrent start to the season. I also had a little sympathy for Stoke City’s Saido Berahino, who despite managing his young career terribly, has not been able to buy any luck to do what he is paid to do, which is score goals.
Entering this weekend, Palace are still searching for its first point and first goal of the campaign. Dating back to last season, Palace have not scored for 630 minutes! As for Berahino, he has not scored in 31 hours and 48 minutes of Premier League soccer. Berahino even missed a penalty last time out.
Such futility is pretty laughable, as cruel as that may sound. I am not at the point of hoping both streaks continue, I’m just fascinated how much longer lady luck can turn her back on both Palace and Saido.
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Liverpool, Man United renew rivalry
Liverpool and Manchester start off the weekend in style at Anfield. It’s a match with many narratives, but for me it is all about United. Jose Mourinho’s side has been dominant this season and has scored a lot of goals by playing an attacking brand of football.
The schedule has been kind, but United has done its job, albeit dressing up some average performances with late goals. The question is, what tactics will Mourinho use in his side’s first real test of the season?
Mourinho is renowned for adopting extremely negative tactics in big games, and for being pragmatic as a coach can be. In his defence, he usually gets the result he wants, but for fans it can be incredibly frustrating to watch.
Will he play it safe again, or will he allow his impact players the freedom to go at Liverpool? Certainly, Romelu Lukaku hopes so, as he has a reputation for falling silent in big games. Can he continue his brilliant form when it really matters?