After the latest round of Premier League fixtures, BBC pundit Troy Deeney has selected his Team of the Week — and this one features standout performers from Leeds, Crystal Palace, Manchester City, and more.
“This week had some huge individual displays that couldn’t be ignored.”
Goalkeeper
Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace)
Henderson continues to grow quietly into one of the league’s best keepers. His composed performance in the win over Burnley once again showed why he deserves more recognition. As Deeney puts it, the best goalkeepers are often the ones nobody talks about — and Henderson fits that description perfectly.
Defensive Standouts of the Week
Cristian Romero (Tottenham)
Outstanding at both ends of the pitch in the draw with Newcastle, scoring twice — including a bold late overhead kick. Spurs didn’t win, but Romero’s impact was clear.
Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton)
Despite Brighton losing 4-3 to Villa, his two goals earned him a place. Solid passing and bravery going forward impressed Deeney, even if he disappeared during Villa’s scoring spell.
Jaka Bijol (Leeds United)
A dominant showing in Leeds’ 3-1 win over Chelsea. Scored his first goal of the season and delivered a powerful defensive performance in a match where Leeds impressed all over the pitch.
Lewis Hall (Newcastle United)
Arguably the best player on the pitch against Spurs. Hall’s form is rising so quickly that Deeney believes he could be England’s starting left-back at the next World Cup.
Daniel Muñoz (Crystal Palace)
Crystal Palace’s most reliable performer this season. Without Sarr, Muñoz carried more attacking responsibility at Burnley and delivered again with energy, control, and consistency.
“Hall and Muñoz are modern full-backs who don’t stop running — frightening levels of quality.”
Midfield Maestros
Phil Foden (Manchester City)
Back to his brilliant best with a superb double against Fulham. After questions about whether he’d make the World Cup squad, Foden responded with electric form that’s impossible to ignore.
Ao Tanaka (Leeds United)
Finally breaks into Deeney’s XI after constantly missing out to Rice and Caicedo. Showed maturity, clever fouling, and high-energy pressing in Leeds’ win over Chelsea — playing like he’s been in the league for a decade.
Mikel Merino (Arsenal)
Deployed as a forward but included here for his midfield link-up. Deeney reminds Arsenal fans he predicted Merino and Havertz would shine. His movement, clever positioning, and goal in the 2-0 win over Brentford earned him a well-deserved spot.
Forwards of the Week
Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
A much-needed return to form. His two goals against Brighton were crucial as he pushed Villa to victory after a difficult start to the season.
Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Not a surprise. With 100 goals in 111 games for City, Haaland’s scoring record makes him impossible to leave out. Another week, another decisive performance.
Manager of the Week
Daniel Farke (Leeds United)
Under heavy pressure, Farke led Leeds to a huge win over Chelsea after a strong performance against Manchester City. Even Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca admitted Leeds were better “in every department.” A statement result for Leeds and their manager.
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