The new Premier Season has so far been spectacular, with almost each and every team having seen their fair share of ups and downs.
Arsenal are the only club to have enjoyed a flawless start to the campaign, winning three games out of three. Unquestionably so, all eyes will be on them when they host Fulham at the weekend. Thomas Tuchel will expect a stirring response from his boys after being demolished 3-0 by Leeds United at Elland Road while Manchester United will aim to build on from the inspiring 2-1 victory over fiercest rivals Liverpool.
With that said, here are three things to look forward to in Premier League matchweek 4.
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Patrick Vieira’s plan against Manchester City
Manchester City’s defensive problems getting exposed in the 3-3 draw with Newcastle United last weekend has focused Crystal Palace fans’ minds on Patrick Vieira’s likely plan at the Etihad Stadium.
Does Vieira change to a pragmatic back three system and look to hit Manchester City hard on the break, similar to what he did against Liverpool at Anfield? Or persist with the 4-3-3 system that beat Aston Villa 3-1 at Selhurst Park?
By looking at how Newcastle—through runners like Allan Saint-Maximin, Joelinton, Miguel Almiron and Callum Wilson—caused problems to the Man City backline throughout the afternoon at St James’ Park, the Palace boss may be encouraged to take a leaf out of that game and set up his side bravely.
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How will Liverpool respond against Bournemouth?
Three games in, Liverpool already find themselves five points behind defending champions Manchester City. They were listless in the 2-1 away defeat to fiercest rivals Man United on Monday, despite enjoying just a shade over 70% possession.
The Reds have as many as six first-team regulars out injured, while Darwin Nunez serves his second of a three-game ban over the weekend. It is a state of mini-crisis for Jurgen Klopp to negotiate, and he will be in the faces of his players demanding a response against visitors Bournemouth.
Liverpool’s low confidence may crumble should Bournemouth sneak in an early goal. And if that occurs then the Anfield faithful will have to find its voice to try to offer what their team lacks badly—belief!
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Can West Ham break their duck?
West Ham are the only club in the Premier League without a point on the board after three games. A season-opening defeat to Man City followed by losses to Nottingham Forest and Brighton has David Moyes and co. staring down the barrel.
Their visitors on Sunday are Aston Villa, who themselves are in a spot of bother at the moment. This should give West Ham a glimmer of hope to break their duck and give their fans some joy.
However, Aston Villa will pose a challenge and the least Moyes can hope from his boys is to put together a credible performance in the evening sunshine at the London Stadium.