Premier League Team of the Week: Gibbs-White and Cherki Shine Bright

The highlight match delivered on its promise, as Manchester City claimed a crucial 2-1 victory over Arsenal, reducing the leaders’ margin to just three points.

In other matches, Liverpool secured a late goal to triumph 2-1 in the inaugural Merseyside derby at Everton’s new venue, Aston Villa edged Sunderland 4-3 in a nail-biting encounter, while Leeds and Nottingham Forest both achieved wins that helped them distance themselves from the relegation zone.

Goalkeeper

Bernd Leno (Fulham) – 7.6

The match between Fulham and Brentford ended in a lackluster 0-0 draw, but Leno had to remain alert and made several crucial saves, including a standout stop against Dango Ouattara in the dying moments.

Defenders

James Justin (Leeds) – 9.1

Justin excelled both defensively and offensively during Leeds’ commanding 3-0 victory over Burnley, winning nine duels, making four tackles, and six clearances while also scoring an impressive acrobatic goal.

Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool) – 8.3

As Liverpool triumphed over their arch-rivals Everton, Konate maintained his focus, winning nine duels, all three tackles, and registering seven clearances for a solid performance at the back.

Jaydee Canvot (Crystal Palace) – 8.5

The young Crystal Palace defender showcased his abilities in the 0-0 draw with West Ham, achieving a game-high 11 clearances, winning eight duels, and boasting a passing accuracy of 92%.

Midfielders

Marcus Tavernier (Bournemouth) – 8.4

Tavernier’s vitality was key in Bournemouth’s 2-1 upset over Newcastle, where he opened the scoreline with a close-range finish.

Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest) – 9.1

In a crucial 4-1 victory over Burnley, Gibbs-White scored a remarkable 15-minute hat-trick, propelling Forest into a five-point cushion above relegation territory after initially falling behind.

Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United) – 8.2

Fernandes continue to play a pivotal role for United, assisting Matheus Cunha’s winning goal in their narrow 1-0 win against Chelsea, bringing his season total to 18 assists—only two short of equalling Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne’s Premier League record.

Rayan Cherki (Manchester City) – 8.4

Cherki dazzled against Arsenal, showcasing his finesse with a series of skillful touches, dribbles, and a brilliant individual goal that put City ahead in their tense title battle.

Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa) – 8.2

Rogers made significant contributions in Aston Villa’s high-scoring home win against Sunderland, netting a crucial goal by slotting home with his weaker left foot.

Forwards

Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa) – 9.2

In superb form, Watkins made a substantial impact by scoring twice and providing an assist in Villa’s exhilarating win.

Xavi Simons (Tottenham) – 8.1

The young Dutch forward put in a stellar performance for Tottenham against Brighton, scoring a stunning curling goal and creating significant pressure during their 2-2 draw, despite the team remaining in the relegation zone.