We have reached November and the Premier League fixture menu is starting to look very tasty as the clubs in the top half get ready to square up in the coming weeks.
This week we have a first vs second clash as Liverpool travel to London for a match against Arsenal which is the stand out game of the weekend. But the fixture list also presents intriguing match-ups elsewhere, so here is your guide on three things to look out for during the weekend’s action:
1) Can Arsenal handle SAS?
SAS this, SAS that, SAS here, SAS there……enough. It seems Liverpool fans have rediscovered their vocal cords after years of searching as Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez have formed a pretty effective strike partnership. It means Liverpool are second in the table, two points behind leaders Arsenal as they head into their blockbuster clash at the Emirates on Saturday.
Will Arsenal’s back four be able to hold up against this very formidable duo? They looked a bit shaky against Borussia Dortmund as they were caught on the break and Brendan Rodgers may employ similar tactics; soak up pressure and then counter at break neck speed. Considering Arsene Wenger’s footballing philosophy we are certainly in for an entertaining match.
2) Romelu Lukaku’s continued development
Many were startled by Jose Mourinho’s choice to allow Romelu Lakaku to leave on a season long loan for yet another season, this time to Everton. It was certainly a shrewd piece of business from Roberto Martinez to acquire the Belgian’s services, though, and Lukaku is again showing what a force he can be.
Lukaku not only has the height to be a nuisance in the air but also the physique to shrug off defenders when fighting for position.
Despite a very impressive defensive record questions still remain on the strength of Tottenham’s centre backs and Lukaku will prove to be another very difficult test as Everton host Spurs on Sunday.
3) The south Wales derby
Now this should be quite the match. I wonder how many fans from both Cardiff and Swansea thought they would be seeing their teams clash in a south Wales derby in the Premier League? About six years ago it seemed unimaginable but this is football and on Sunday Cardiff City stadium will be so loud that you may just hear it all the way at the Liberty stadium.
Ok, maybe not, but it is still going to be bloody loud and Cardiff will be hoping that the atmosphere will make things difficult for Michael Laudrup’s technically-superior side. It will be a fantastic moment and, hopefully, a great game to match.