The Premier League once again showcased why it attracts a worldwide audience, after an eventful weekend filled with goals, controversy and upsets.
Man of the moment Anthony Martial scored a brilliant solo goal on his debut for Man Utd against Liverpool to help silence his critics, following his big money move from Monaco.
In a game which also saw arguably the goal of the season via Christian Benteke’s unbelievable overhead kick, the Red Devils gained the bragging rights with a 3-1 win in one of England’s biggest derbies.
Chelsea’s poor form continued as they fell to a Steven Naismith inspired Everton side who put the visitors to the sword at Goodison Park in a 3-1 victory.
Back in London, Man City managed to maintain their 100% record this season in the league, but they were made to work, eventually securing all three points in the final moments against a rigid Crystal Palace outfit.
Leicester also managed to overturn a two-goal deficit in what was an astonishing comeback at the King Power Stadium – culminating in three goals for the home side in the final 20 minutes to sink Aston Villa hearts.
Elsewhere there were wins for Arsenal, Tottenham, Norwich, Watford and West Ham, while West Brom and Southampton played out a bore draw at the Hawthorns.
Player of the weekend: Steven Naismith (Everton)
There will little argument with this one, after the Scotsman came off the bench to secure a perfect hat-trick against Chelsea. Having seen Muhamed Besic pull up injured early on, Toffees manager Roberto Martinez would have been worried about how proceedings would pan out, but he was to make an inspired substitution. Naismith caused issue all afternoon with his movement, igniting panic in the Blues’ back four. Playing like a man possessed he single-handedly won his side the game and extended the misery for Jose Mourinho’s side. Scoring a goal with his left foot, right foot and head, he joined the exclusive club of players who have achieved the ‘perfect hat-trick’ – congratulations.
Surprise of the weekend: Leicester’s incredibly quick turnaround
In one of the most exciting games so far this season, Leicester managed to pull off a miraculous turnaround in the final 20 minutes. Having seen Aston Villa slip into a 2-0 lead – thanks to wonderful strikes from Grealish and Gil – the Foxes were faced with an almighty task to secure one point, let alone all three. However, thanks to the ever-present Riyad Mahrez sparking into life, they produced the biggest comeback seen in the Premier League for a while.
Goal of the weekend: Christian Benteke vs Man Utd
If you’ve seen this goal, it needs no explanation whatsoever. For me, it’s without a doubt the best goal I’ve seen in the league for some time. With Jordan Ibe’s cross cleared by a defender, the ball stayed hanging in the air, which led to Benteke deciding to produce the most audacious overhead kick, giving Man Utd goalkeeper De Gea no chance at all. A goal worthy of winning any game, however, such a goal was to be in vein as his side went on to lose to their bitter rivals 3-1.
Fantasy Football tip of the weekend: Andre Ayew (Swansea)
This is a player I have a big soft spot for, and he has shined in his first few weeks in the Premier League. Not only has he settled, but he has also been putting in work for managers who have selected him for their Fantasy Football sides. Ayew is the focal point for all creativity and is likely to be either the assister or scorer when Swansea find the net, making him a good choice, particularly at a price of £7.3m.
Betting tip of the weekend: Everton to beat Swansea (23/10)
Despite Swansea providing tough opposition this season – managing to take points off Chelsea and Man Utd – Everton are bang in form following their 3-1 win over Jose Mourinho’s men. In addition, the Swans fell to defeat in their last outing to newly-promoted Watford, which could leave them dejected and rusty. At a price of 23/10, it’s too high to turn down for me.