Premier League: 10 things to look out for this weekend | Premier League

Dawson ready to showcase heroics like Haaland taming
The focal point at Molineux isn’t just on Hwang Hee-chan vs. Son Heung-min in the Korean derby, but also on the unfashionable yet excellent centre-back Craig Dawson. Six weeks ago, Dawson successfully tamed Erling Haaland, earning praise from Alan Shearer for his “faultless display” against the league’s top goalscorer. Now, Dawson and his partners in the defense will have to be on their guard again as they face Son and Tottenham.

Gunners seeking a top-level striker to fire up

Arsenal’s defeat at Newcastle revealed the need for a top-level striker to take and make chances against a well-organized defense. Mikel Arteta’s continued faith in Eddie Nketiah lacks the killer instinct needed. Significant summer cash was spent on Kai Havertz, who has shown a lack of finishing ability and should have received a red card at St. James’ Park. Links with Ivan Toney in January make sense, as he possesses the skillset needed for pressing and finishing.

Palace and Everton – masters of the counter-attack

Both Palace and Everton have been a bit thrifty in the summer transfer market, blending youth with experience. Hodgson is facing a huge blow with injury absence of winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, while Dyche hopes to shake off a knock with the impressive 21-year-old center-back Jarrad Branthwaite. Both teams seem to get better results without the ball, and it’s likely that one team will have to have more than 50% of possession at Selhurst Park.

Ten Hag facing pressure after Copenhagen implosion

Manchester United’s vulnerability should give Luton hope, and if they fail against the relegation favorites, questions over Erik ten Hag’s managerial ability will start again. United should win, but given their track record, it’s difficult to be sure.

Deja vu for Howe at Bournemouth

Returning to Bournemouth for the second time as Newcastle manager, Eddie Howe brings with him a group of familiar faces from Bournemouth, while Andoni Iraola is facing obstacles due to not being as blessed with his own staff.

Villa close to equalling 1983 winning run

Aston Villa’s formidable winning home record puts them in a position to match their 1983 winning streak, spearheaded by Peter Withe.

Blades offer hope before Brighton visit

Sheffield United showed signs of life in their recent victory over Wolves, and they might fancy their chances against a Brighton side without a win in five Premier League games.

Klopp’s midfield needs defensive depth

Jürgen Klopp needs to make fundamental changes to his midfield to make it “Liverpool 2.0,” especially in terms of defensive depth. His latest game against Luton showed signs of implementation issues, and bringing in fully fit squad members could make a difference.

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Michael Johnson

Michael Johnson is your soccer guru, providing extensive coverage of soccer. With a global perspective, he delivers match reports, player interviews, and insights into the beautiful game, ensuring readers stay connected to the world of soccer.