Troy Deeney's Premier League Team and Manager of the Week
After each round of Premier League fixtures this season, BBC football analyst Troy Deeney selects his team and manager of the week.
Here are this week's selections. Do you agree? Share your opinions using the comments form at the bottom of this page.
Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace): Goalkeepers faced challenges this weekend with numerous shots, but Henderson's penalty save and clean sheet against a struggling Wolves side were crucial for Crystal Palace, who were in need of a victory.
Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool): The debate continues over whether Van Dijk or John Terry is the Premier League's best centre-back. Deeney describes Van Dijk as "just a Rolls Royce," placing them in the same category. He consistently performs and has enhanced Milos Kerkez's game through his leadership. Despite a challenging match against Nottingham Forest, Van Dijk delivered a strong performance.
Harry Maguire (Manchester United): Nicknamed "Mr Dependable," Maguire narrowly edged out Luke Shaw for inclusion. Manchester United's strong run under Michael Carrick coincides with Maguire's fitness and availability. Deeney notes that Maguire was once considered surplus to requirements but has now become a key figure for the team.
Lewis Hall (Newcastle): Hall has been outstanding throughout the Premier League season. Although his goal against Manchester City was deflected, Deeney praises his overall brilliant performance.
Nico O'Reilly (Manchester City): Deeney names O'Reilly the player of the weekend and month by a wide margin. Since moving into midfield, O'Reilly has improved Rodri's play and Manchester City's overall performance. His versatility is notable, having excelled at left-back over the past 18 months. Both goals against Newcastle were impressive and distinct. Deeney suggests O'Reilly is a definite candidate for the England squad and questions whether he will now primarily play in midfield.
Anton Stach (Leeds): Leeds appeared at risk of faltering, but Stach was a standout performer against Aston Villa. His free-kick goal against World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emi Martinez secured his place in Deeney's team.
Eberechi Eze (Arsenal): Eze earned his spot with two goals against Spurs. He has now scored five goals against them in two games, marking Spurs as his favored opponent. Despite inconsistent form and selection this season, this performance is a significant confidence boost for both Eze and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.
Diego Gomez (Brighton): Gomez scored in Brighton's win over Brentford and delivered a vital midfield display. Despite Brentford's injury issues and subpar form, Gomez effectively broke through their lines multiple times. This victory marked Brighton's first league win in seven games, a much-needed result.
Zian Flemming (Burnley): Flemming scored against Chelsea with a classic number nine display. Deeney appreciates this style of play, noting Flemming's physicality, disruptive fouls, and ability to frustrate opponents. His actions contributed to Chelsea's Wesley Fofana receiving a red card.
Viktor Gyokeres (Arsenal): Gyokeres scored twice against Spurs. While the opposition's defense was weak, Deeney acknowledges Gyokeres's determination and improved overall play. He notes that scoring against available opponents is still commendable.
Raul Jimenez (Fulham): Jimenez experiences scoring streaks where he appears as a top player before quiet periods. He added two goals against Sunderland on Sunday. Known for his strength and work rate, Jimenez consistently challenges opposing defenses.
Mikel Arteta (Arsenal): Arteta had a significant week as Arsenal faced pressure following Manchester City's win, heading into the north London derby against a struggling Spurs side. Arsenal managed the pressure effectively, earning Deeney's full credit for Arteta's leadership throughout the campaign.
Do you agree with Troy Deeney's selections? Who would feature in your Team of the Week? Share your views using the comments form below.
