Putting aside the issues of the so-called clubs expected to challenge or dominate, there are teams that really should be given the credit they deserve.
They have raised their standards and achieved progress in the league. What we have witnessed is these teams able to genuinely compete toe-to-toe against the Big-Boys. The points taken off one other reflects the league table as apart from Liverpool, Arsenal and Forest, there is a steady Gradient and the points gap between each place in the league isn’t significantly different (park aside, Leicester, Ipswich and Southampton). Many now as pointed out have been invested in. So we have Stadia, training grounds, coaching staff, player development/players bought.
Tactics and style of play is a little under-looked and teams approaching boldly without fear.
Man City undoubtedly have been one of a kind winning the League 4 in succession, but I think Rodri’s absence was the Catalyst in unmasking more than one flaw in Pep’s squad and first 11. He has a rebuilding job to do there’s no getting away from that.
Man United: In decline, no running away from that either and it’s going to take some time before they are even considered as a Top 4.
Chelsea: in gradual progression but it’s a matter for them to establish a best 11 and sticking more with the same then to change in frequency just because of the plethora of players they have at their disposal.
Arsenal: Saka has obviously been a miss. Arteta needs to come away from seemingly believe Odegaard, Trossard and Rice is enough of an attack to bring goals. Martineli and Saka is what’s needed more.
Liverpool without question have been lucky this season from an injury point of view. It looks like certain things have changed from Slot being at the helm against his predecessor Jurgen; largely, training/fitness/recovery as implement his tactics playing a 4-2-3-1.
Zobo, Gravenberch and Mac Allister have been instrumental for us this season and of course our hero Mo with his length of service and his goals-assists consistently throughout.
We have hurdles to overcome, but those are the factors and Slot and his Management Team to thank for what’s been achieved this season.
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