Garth Crooks’ Premier Picks: Doku, Van Dijk, Gordon, and Fernandes Make the Cut

Each week, following the dust settling on the Premier League’s pitch battles, BBC’s football sage Garth Crooks unveils his elite lineup in the Team of the Week. Here’s the latest squad, complete with Garth’s keen insights on the week’s headline-grabbers in his signature segment, “The Crooks of the Matter.”

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Sam Johnstone (Crystal Palace): It wasn’t a standout away game for Crystal Palace, but Sam Johnstone was a fortress in goal.

He skillfully deflected a fierce attempt from Luca Koleosho and later from Josh Brownhill, but the showstopper was thwarting a point-blank header from Jay Rodriguez.

Burnley’s conundrum continues, as they create opportunities but can’t seem to finish them. This either points to them grappling with the Premier League’s grandeur or it hints at a deficiency in talent. While Vincent Kompany leans towards the former, I’m on the fence.

Harry Maguire (Manchester United): Surviving the cauldron of Old Trafford means withstanding intense pressure, always headlining, for better or worse.

Harry Maguire has been through the wringer but remains uncrushed by the immense scrutiny. His display against a tough Fulham was a masterclass in effectiveness—no flashiness, just raw commitment and competitive fire, exactly what Ten Hag’s team requires right now.

Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool): Luis Diaz’s goal celebration, calling for his abducted father’s freedom, will be etched into this season’s memory.

With his personal turmoil, just Diaz’s presence on the pitch speaks to his incredible resilience. Thankfully so, as Virgil van Dijk was the sole Liverpool player on form at Kenilworth Road, amidst a disappointing performance from the European champions.

Luton, in contrast, displayed great heart and nearly reaped the rewards of meticulous preparation by manager Rob Edwards and his team.

Moussa Niakhate (Nottingham Forest): Moussa Niakhate’s early-season dismissal is a thing of the past. His newfound discretion in tackles was evident against Aston Villa, where he excelled along with Murillo.

He doesn’t quite echo Viv Anderson, but for now, he’s doing just fine, with key clearances and tackles that landed him on my team list.

Jeremy Doku (Manchester City): Pep Guardiola has unearthed a gem in Jeremy Doku, a player channeling the prowess of Sterling and Mahrez from two seasons past.

Against Bournemouth, he was a force of nature, contributing to goals left and right—literally. His potential in Guardiola’s care is an exciting prospect to ponder.

Bernardo Silva (Manchester City): Facing Manchester City must feel daunting right now, with goals raining in from every direction and Bernardo Silva orchestrating the symphony.

Even when City’s gameplay involves lateral and backward passes, it’s all part of the artistry when Silva takes the lead. Bad timing for anyone to challenge City, indeed.

Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United): Bruno Fernandes is a player you can’t just ignore, a fact underscored by his crucial goal against Fulham.

Fernandes’ brilliance not only secured the win but also shielded Erik ten Hag from a week awash with speculation. That’s a captain’s contribution for you.

Joelinton (Newcastle): Newcastle’s takedown of Arsenal’s unbeaten streak was a plausible bet, especially at St James’ Park.

The rivalry brewing between these two sides is multifaceted, and Joelinton’s commanding presence against the Gunners reflected the staunch spirit of the region.

Anthony Gordon (Newcastle): Anthony Gordon’s move to Newcastle has been nothing short of serendipitous.

His performances against Manchester United in the League Cup and Arsenal were testament to a transfer well-made, regardless of the controversy around the officials’ decisions. Blame can’t be laid at Gordon’s feet.

Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea): Tottenham’s matchup became a series of unfortunate events, with Romero’s sending off, van de Ven’s injury, Maddison’s substitution, and Udogie’s dismissal.

Amidst Spurs’ self-sabotage, Nicolas Jackson seized the moment for Chelsea, with a trio of calm finishes.

Cameron Archer (Sheffield United): Cameron Archer’s strike against Wolves was nothing short of sensational.

Despite Sheffield’s less convincing overall performance and a contentious penalty call, the team’s vigor and unity cannot be questioned. However, whether Sheffield United can sustain this intense passion without burning out is a question mark lingering over Bramall Lane.

The Crooks of the Matter

Refereeing in football is always a hot topic, but the sanctity of the referee’s final word has been shattered with the advent of VAR, creating uproar, as seen with Mikel Arteta’s outburst following Arsenal’s defeat at Newcastle.

As technology advances, the human element seems to recede, threatening the soul of the game. Managers like Arteta must lead by example in maintaining respect for referees, regardless of technology’s influence.

Football thrives on its human essence, from passionate debates to adrenaline-fueled performances. It’s a game played by humans, for humans, and that’s what keeps us coming back for more.

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