ClapThe Premier League is back following the winter break and while the World Cup may have reminded us all why we love the beautiful game so much, there’s an argument to be made that the Premier League is what will maintain that affection. Or, for that matter, any league in the English football pyramid.
Today, we’re going to take a look at how a handful of teams were able to impress the masses as we look ahead to the rest of the schedule for 2022 and beyond.
The EPL isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but given the sheer volume of talent that players there week in and week out, you’d best not make the mistake of ignoring the action for too long.
Newcastle
It’s time to face the music for anyone who hasn’t already: Newcastle United are one of the best clubs in England. It may feel wrong given the circumstances, but that’s the situation we find ourselves in thanks to Eddie Howe.
They tore a hole through Leicester City on Boxing Day and did so in their own backyard. It was 3-0, it was emphatic, and it vaulted them into a position whereby Champions League football is a genuine possibility.
Fulham
Yes, Crystal Palace went down to nine men and yes, they played particularly poorly – but that doesn’t mean Fulham weren’t impressive, because they were, and they’ve earned the 9th place position they currently have.
The Cottagers are already starting to, ever so slightly, pull away from the relegation battle, which is pretty huge given that we are on the verge of entering the new year.
Wolves
Julen Lopetegui knew that he faced a relegation six-pointer against Everton and he knew, in equal measure, that it was going to be a difficult clash of styles in his first taste of the Premier League.
In the end, though, it didn’t matter, as Wolves edged past the Toffees with a dramatic last minute winner that they didn’t really deserve. Now, the big question is whether or not they can use it to push even further away from the bottom three.
Arsenal
West Ham United were always going to put their London rivals under some serious pressure and heading into the second half, Arsenal fans would’ve been able to acknowledge how grim things looked.
Alas, you can never count this team out, which is why and how they were able to score three goals in a phenomenal sixteen-minute spell that ensures they maintain their five-point lead at the top of the table.
Man United
Manchester United fans won’t be fooled into thinking that a few good results mean they’re ‘back’ as a big club. However, they were ruthless in their pursuit of Nottingham Forest, gunning them down with a 3-0 triumph.
Erik ten Hag has fewer distractions to deal with these days and he has a squad of players he can really work with. If he can add to that with a few nice signings in January, the top four push will really be on.
