SASoccermag takes a look back at the week’s Premier League action and examines which players shined the brightest as we pick the best XI of matchday three.
This week’s formation: 4-2-3-1
Goalkeeper: Eldin Jakupovic (Hull City)
The Hull City shot-stopper was in fine form this weekend as his excellent positioning and quick reflexes helped frustrate Manchester United. Though the Tigers were undone by a dramatic late goal from Marcus Rashford, without Jakupovic it may have been a lot worse.
Left Back: Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
In a game completely dominated by the Red Devils Luke Shaw made light work of his defensive responsibilities, while he also contributed a lot for his side going forward. Comfortable playing out from the back and bursting up the flanks at every opportunity, Shaw helped add width while nullifying Hull’s threat.
Centre Back: Curtis Davies (Hull City)
Desperately unfortunate to see his side finally concede, Davies was superb at the back for the Tigers. Making block after block, timing numerous challenges to perfection, and keeping the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic well marshaled, Davies proved a pillar of strength for a side that was desperately overrun.
Centre Back: Wes Morgan (Leicester City)
As he so often did last season, Morgan led by example for the Foxes as he turned in a resolute defensive performance, out-muscling Swansea City’s attackers with ease. The captain’s persistence off a corner also earned his side a vital goal as they look to kickstart their defence of their title.
Right Back: Hector Bellerin (Arsenal)
Bellerin continued to show why he is so highly prized as his speed and dynamism on the right flank helped power Arsenal forward in an electric first-half performance. Bursting into space at every opportunity while dealing comfortably with his defensive duties, Bellerin was essential in driving Watford back.
Centre Midfield: Granit Xhaka (Arsenal)
Xhaka put on a passing masterclass for the Gunners as he helped dictate the midfield with ease while he also provided defensive cover when necessary. Having set the tempo of Arsenal’s play, the Swiss was a crucial cog in the side’s scintillating first-half display.
Centre Midfield: David Silva (Manchester City)
Few of City’s players have adapted to Pep Guardiola’s new philosophy at the club better than David Silva. Drifting effortless between West Ham United’s defensive lines, the Spaniard’s slipped several clever balls behind the Hammers’ defence and looked assured whenever he was in possession.
Attacking Midfield: Mesut Ozil (Arsenal)
Arsenal looked a different side following Ozil’s return to the starting lineup. The German constantly seemed to find space for himself as he helped knit together Arsenal attacking play, while his superb run was rewarded with a stunning headed goal as he met a cross from Alexis Sanchez.
Left Wing: Eden Hazard (Chelsea)
Hazard was once again the catalyst for Chelsea as he linked up well with his attacking teammates, scored a sublime solo goal, and notched an assist for Victor Moses. A constant menace down the flank, Hazard exploited his pace and incisive running to cause havoc for the hapless Burnley.
Right Wing: Raheem Sterling (Manchester City)
Sterling continued is fine form for Manchester City with a double that ensured his side the full compliment of points against West Ham. His trickery, pace and precision in front of goal proved crucial for his side as they fought off a Hammers comeback in the second-half.
Striker: Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal)
Asked to play at centre forward by Arsene Wenger, Sanchez did not disappoint. Constantly troubling defenders with his running and trickery, the star scored an excellent goal for his side, played in Theo Walcott for his strike, while he also supplied the sublime cross for Mesut Ozil’s header.
