On a weekend of high-drama at both ends of the table in the Premier League, Arsenal and Manchester United escaped unscathed to cement their positions in the top four.
True, the
Gunners could have dropped out of those positions had other results gone against them, but they have a game in-hand and victory in-that will carry them to second.
Robin van Persie was their star, scoring and producing a splendid all-round performance at the Emirates. Emmanuel Eboue also impressed, continuing to prove the doubters wrong and deserving of his place in right-back, while Abou Diaby also got on the score-sheet in the 3-1 win against Birmingham, continuing to improve in the midfield.
Manchester United were cruising against Bolton, but survived a late scare to claim a 2-1 victory and top spot in the Premier League. Antonio Valencia scored his first goal for the Red Devils to relieve some of the Ronaldo burden, and Dimitar Berbatov put in a great stint at the top for Ferguson’s men.
Sunderland have four players in the GMF squad after their 1-0 victory against Liverpool at the Stadium of Light. Craig Gordon gets the nod in goal thanks to a splendid double save that preserved victory, while Lee Cattermole continued to build on his reputation with a combative midfield display.
Michael Turner and Darren Bent make the bench, with the later thanking a beach-ball for his inclusion.
Aston Villa claimed an impressive 2-1 victory against highly-rated Chelsea, and James Collins pips Richard Dunne into the side thanks to his all-round defensive performance coupled with the winner. Brad Friedel and James Milner make the bench after a great afternoon for the Villains.
Wigan and
Manchester City played out an entertaining 1-1 draw on Sunday afternoon, with City goalscorer Martin Petrov producing a fine display. Wigan defender Titus Bramble also makes the grade, continuing to impress at the heart of the Latics’ defence. England anyone?
Two
Blackburn players made the cut after their 3-2 derby victory over Burnley, with full-back Pascal Chimbonda and Lancashire lad David Dunn both scoring at Ewood Park.
Stoke City striker James Beattie is the second striker after bagging a brace for the Potters. Although not ‘classic’ goals, Beattie proved he still has the goalscoring touch against West Ham.
Spurs skipper Ledley King completes the squad, scoring in the 2-1 win over Pomper and producing a fine defensive display to go with it. If the centre back can stay fit, then he has a chance of forcing his way into England's World Cup squad.
Team: Craig Gordon; Emmanuel Eboue; Titus Bramble; James Collins; Pascal Chimbonda; Antonio Valencia; Lee Cattermole; David Dunn; Martin Petrov; James Beattie; Robin van Persie.
Subs: Brad Friedel; Ledley King; Michael Turner; Abou Diaby; James Milner; Darren Bent; Dimitar Berbatov.
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