The Top Four Performers in the English Premier League So Far
By Pelumi King
The English Premier League is back with its usual entertainment amidst huge expectations from fans. AFAS Press Sports writer gives his opinion on the sides that have stood out so far.
The Premier League returned four weeks ago, and fans of different clubs are now being entertained. Some have been impressed with their club’s performance so far while others have been anything but. Although most teams in the Premier League have had a standard performance, these are the four teams that stand out so far.
1. Liverpool
Liverpool were simply excellent in their opening game, dispatching Norwich city 4-1. Although they struggled for some parts of the game, they were excellent. The only blight to that victory was the injury to their number-one goalkeeper Allison. Liverpool are currently top of the Premier League with twelve points. They won 3-1 against then second-placed Arsenal at Anfield. Their second game though was more difficult for them. They managed a narrow 2-1 win against Southampton at the St Mary’s stadium. Liverpool continue to prove that their Champions League victory was no fluke. They trashed Burnley 3-0 in their game last weekend at Turf Moor, and now they head into the international break still atop the Premier League table. Jurgen Klopp’s side have their fear factor back now and seem ready to win the first Premier League title in their history.
2. Manchester City
Manchester City are the second best performers in the league so far not just because of their position in the league but also because of their drive. They have all it takes to win the league for the third time in a row. Manchester City arguably have a better squad than Liverpool, and are simply too good. They made light work of West Ham on opening day, battering them 5-0 in a game where Raheem Sterling scored a hat trick. They drew with Tottenham on the second match day, but they did not allow that derail them. Instead they continued their fine form by defeating Bournemouth 3-1. They further made their case as being the best side in England by totally obliterating Brighton 4-0 with striker Aguero scoring twice. This Premier League season might just be a two-horse race again. In England and even Europe, Manchester City remain the team to beat.
3. Leicester
Leicester are reaching not just for a Champions League spot but a second premier league title as well. They currently have eight points out of the twelve available. What sets Leicester apart from others is their persistence and never-say-never spirit. Although they went behind after a goal from Mason Mount in their game against Chelsea, they persisted until they finally got their equaliser. They got their first Premier League win of the season when they beat newly promoted Sheffield United 2-1 with youngster Harvey Barnes netting a wonderful goal. Then they further dispatched Bournemouth 3-1 at home. They are currently third on the table, only behind Liverpool and Manchester city. If Leicester can keep this form, then they will at least secure a Champions League spot.
4. Arsenal
Though Arsenal lost 3-1 to Liverpool at Anfield, they have still had a moderately good season so far. They started by beating Newcastle 1-0. It was a difficult game packed with intensity but Arsenal still had the quality to defeat Newcastle, albeit narrowly. Their second Premier League game against Burnley was equally very intense but they still somehow managed to grind out the win. They came from two goals down to grab a point at home against Tottenham. That’s the stuff champions are made of. Arsenal are definitely candidates to win the Premier League title, and such a huge relief will that be for their fans.
