#5 Worst / most ineffective player(s)
(a) Jordi Amat
Match: Middlesbrough vs. Swansea City
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After a chastening defeat at the hands of the Baggies during the midweek games, Swansea City’s focus was more on not losing than setting up to win. However, the Welshmen could not keep the Boro attack at bay and their passive play allowed the hosts time and space on the ball.
One of the key players at fault – partially for the first and completely for Boro’s second goal of the day was Jordi Amat.
He failed to cover Negredo’s shot for the first goal despite the angle and it was his clumsy challenge that resulted in a penalty being awarded to Karanka’s men.
Amat’s defending was suspect throughout the game and his inability to seal a partnership in the heart of Swans’ defence is costing them big.
(b) Mesut Ozil
Match: Manchester City vs. Arsenal
Big night, big game, big name. Mesut Ozil.
The silky playmaker-cum-attacker from Germany was expected by many to play a huge part in Arsenal’s visit to the Etihad; suffice to say, he did not meet said expectations.
He was anonymous in the build-up, barely involved in the passing and pressing, and looked exhausted. Whether it is the midweek fixtures or the lack of rest that is taking a toll is not yet clear but if Arsenal are aiming for a decent shot at the title, this man will have to up his game to provide any sort of assistance to the tireless workhorse that is Alexis Sanchez.
Honourable mentions: Ross Barkley (vs. Liverpool), Angelo Ogbonna (vs. Hull City), Divock Origi (vs. Everton), Aaron Cresswell (vs. Hull City)
