This week’s EPL team features a big mix of players with none from big boys Manchester City, Chelsea, or Arsenal. The title race is starting to filter down, but in terms of top four or even six spots, it’s anyone’s game really (except maybe QPR). Here we go again for round 15!
Brad Guzan (Aston Villa)
For the second week in a row, Guzan gets the nod from me. He was the main reason Villa escaped with a point against QPR, making seven saves (the most for any keeper this round) and frustrating Redknapp’s boys.
Angel Rangel (Swansea City)
Often goes unnoticed but he’s been pretty solid for Swansea most games, and against Arsenal he was no different. He managed to waltz down the wing and through the Gunner’s defence a couple of times and really helped contribute to his team’s victory. He got off three shots, made five tackles, and was incredibly efficient with his passing. Angel is becoming one of the most threatening fullbacks in the league and it’s about time he got some recognition, so in ya come.
Ryan Shawcross (Stoke City)
When Stoke is mentioned, it’s difficult not to think of their defence, and Shawcross is always the first name that comes to my mind. Yet another clean sheet and another solid defensive display from Stoke, making West Brom look far from the team we’ve seen in previous weeks. Shawcross still needs to work on his passing a bit, but when it comes to tackling and breaking up plays, he’s looking like one of the best in the league.
Daniel Agger (Liverpool)
Overall, Liverpool were pretty impressive throughout the match, but it took a solid header from the Dagger to get them the three points this week. Almost as important was his defensive display. Although Southampton didn’t cause too much trouble for the Reds, he shut down most potential threats and also was very formidable with his passing and starting attacking moves.
Shaun Wright-Phillips (QPR)
To be honest, this is a name I’d never thought I’d be putting in here as he really hasn’t been anything special since moving to QPR. This week however against Villa, he was highly impressive. By his standards it was the best match I’ve seen him play in quite some time. He got 4 shots, was very accurate with his passing, and constantly provided the Rangers with some pace and width for their buildups. Shame for him and them they couldn’t get a winner, but then again that’s why Guzan is in here too.
Marouane Fellaini (Everton)
Pretty difficult every week not to select him, and performing like he does against an opponent like City removes any doubts of him being in here. Sure he might be at fault for the penalty, but he was still probably the best player on that field. He did to Yaya Toure what Toure did to everyone last season, and there’s really not many more players in the league right now that I’d rather have in my team.
Sandro (Tottenham)
He currently leads the league in interceptions per game and also played a vital role against Fulham this past weekend. He made 3 tackles, completed almost all his passes, and of course scored one of the three goals for the Spurs.
Michu (Swansea City)
Along with Pablo Hernandez, he’s one of the best bargain signings for the season so far. He has been scoring goals and playing brilliant football almost every game for Swansea, and against Arsenal his brace showed off his impeccable finishing and composure. If he keeps this up, he’s going to be wanted by some big name clubs. For now, him and his team continue to climb the ranks in the EPL.
Mohamed Diame (West Ham)
He may have only played the second half but he made a huge impact against Chelsea. Not only did he give the Hammers the lead, he bullied the Chelsea defence and lay the foundations for the final goal. Huge match for him and a huge win for West Ham.
Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)
Not many surprises here. He has been dictating the play for United every match and it’s nice to see him back on the score sheet again, twice! It’s hard to narrow him down to a striker because he really doesn’t play that role anymore. He’s everywhere on the pitch, taking up the duties of the playmaker, striking, and tracking back to help out the defence. His assist for Robin van Persie’s goal was masterful, and his corner found Evans who won the penalty for him to finish off.
Jermain Defoe (Tottenham)
I’m not sure what it is about Defoe, but I love seeing him doing well. Maybe it’s his struggles for form and fitness over the last few seasons but he’s really making up for it. The fact that Dempsey has lifted his game and is providing more opportunities for him to score should be acknowledged, but the movement, positioning and finishing is all Defoe. Two more goals and him and his team are now starting to play at a consistently high level.
Guzan
Angel Rangel Shawcross Agger
Sandro Fellaini
Michu Rooney Diame
Defoe
The Spot Kick 