English Premier League 2018-19: Key talking points after match-day 22
The English Premier League has just completed its match-day 22, and the league is in a very intense phase at the moment. Liverpool continue to be the table-toppers with 57 points, and leading second-placed Manchester City with a 4-point margin. Tottenham's loss against Manchester United sees them continue at the third spot, while United have equaled points with fifth-placed Arsenal. Here're key talking points.
Manchester United showing promise, should continue their form
Under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, United have found a new breath of life. They have won all their matches under him. However, United should analyze their performance against Tottenham as they were outplayed in the second half, and it was only due to David de Gea that they didn't concede. It will be in United's best interest if Lukaku is sold off at the earliest.
Unai Emery's Arsenal suffered a poor week
Arsenal were defeated by West Ham this week, which made Unai Emery comment that they could not control the match. This was the fifth consecutive away match where Arsenal could not win, and considering they host Chelsea on January 19, they would have been happy going in with a victory. Captain Laurent Koscielny also said that Arsenal need to perform better while attacking.
Chelsea have to pick up pace soon
Chelsea finally won a match this week after losing to Crystal Palace and drawing against Southampton. However, what Chelsea are lacking is a prolific goal-scorer who will find the back of the net frequently. Their main striker Alvaro Morata has hardly been able to prove his mettle, and Chelsea should start looking elsewhere to curb their goal-scoring woes.
Trouble looming over Tottenham's head after Harry Kane's injury
Tottenham suffered defeat against Manchester United at Wembley, a match they should have won considering the number of chances they managed to create. David de Gea became their enemy and held his fort firmly till the last whistle. Harry Kane's injury will be contributing to further problems that Spurs could do without. Spurs face Chelsea in the Carabao Cup semi-final next week.
Manchester City looking sharp after win against Wolves
City thrashed Wolverhampton 3-0 this week and dominated the match with 77% possession. Gabriel Jesus was in phenomenal form, scoring twice and helping City narrow their gap with Liverpool. City have now managed to score 99 goals across all competitions this term, and with Kevin de Bruyne back, they look more confident than ever. City's form shows they are still challenging for the title.
Liverpool are still on top, injury concerns can trouble them?
Liverpool defeated Brighton with a goal from Mohamed Salah, and are still four points ahead of their closest competitor Manchester City. As the league progresses into the final stages, Klopp will be intent on holding on to the form and not lose points. One concern that is surely haunting him is the numerous injuries Liverpool defenders have suffered. They face Crystal Palace next.
