Garth Crooks’ Team of the Week: Who played the pass of the season?

Garth Crooks’ Team of the Week: Who Delivered the Pass of the Season?

Every week, football pundit extraordinaire Garth Crooks assembles his Team of the Week, a collection of standout performers from the latest Premier League action. This week, we’ve witnessed some exceptional moments and outstanding plays that deserve recognition. So, let’s dive into the selections and dissect the standout performances that caught Crooks’ discerning eye.

James Trafford (Burnley): Goalkeepers often say that the first save they make sets the tone for the game, and James Trafford proved this point brilliantly. Facing an early test from Harry Wilson and later denying Palhinha with a more challenging strike, Trafford showcased his shot-stopping prowess. His solid performance in front of the net was vital for Burnley, especially considering Fulham’s midweek Carabao Cup win over Everton. The Clarets will need more clean sheets like this if they aim to secure their Premier League status.

Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool): It was a pass that defied belief, a moment of magic from Trent Alexander-Arnold that sent Mohamed Salah on his way to breaking Michael Owen’s scoring record. Positioned in the heart of the defense, Alexander-Arnold unleashed a pass that even a Miami Dolphins quarterback would envy. From deep within his own half, he expertly picked out Salah, leaving Arsenal’s Oleksandr Zinchenko in a helpless chase. Salah capitalized on the opportunity, scoring a sensational goal. This pass was nothing short of exceptional and a testament to Alexander-Arnold’s remarkable skill.

Kurt Zouma (West Ham): West Ham welcomed back Kurt Zouma into their starting lineup following a tough midweek loss to Liverpool. Zouma’s presence was a game-changer, epitomizing determination and commitment. His heroic clearance off the line against Manchester United was crucial, showcasing the leadership qualities that make him West Ham’s captain. The Hammers refused to let their Carabao Cup setback derail their Premier League aspirations, and Zouma played a pivotal role in their resurgence.

Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool): Ibrahima Konate has taken some time to settle at Anfield, but against Arsenal, he displayed his best form in a Liverpool shirt. His perfectly timed tackle in the penalty area during the final moments of the match was a testament to his growing composure and defensive prowess. Konate’s improved ball-handling skills and decision-making have added a new dimension to his game. In a closely contested match, his performance stood out, and he played a crucial role in Liverpool’s defensive stability.

Mohammed Kudus (West Ham): The inclusion of Mohammed Kudus in this team reflects his outstanding contributions for West Ham this season. Since his arrival, the Hammers have looked even more dangerous on the counterattack. However, it’s essential to credit manager David Moyes for bringing Kudus to London Stadium and guiding West Ham’s impressive run. Despite the speculations about a managerial change, Moyes has been instrumental in West Ham’s success. Kudus’ impact on the team underscores the importance of stability and continuity.

Declan Rice (Arsenal): While Martin Odegaard stole the show in the first half for Arsenal, it was Declan Rice who continued the theme in the second. Stationed in front of Arsenal’s defense, Rice provided crucial defensive cover. His authority and reliability have elevated his game, and he now plays a pivotal role in protecting the Gunners’ backline. Rice’s consistency is a valuable asset for Arsenal, especially in the title race, where reliability can make all the difference.

Martin Odegaard (Arsenal): Arsenal’s performance at Anfield, particularly in the opening 25 minutes, was a masterclass, and at the heart of it was Martin Odegaard. His orchestration of the midfield was sublime, although there was a contentious penalty appeal involving him. The debate about such decisions remains, but one thing is clear: Odegaard’s influence on the game cannot be understated. He’s a key figure in Arsenal’s resurgence and their pursuit of success this season.

Wilson Odobert (Burnley): Wilson Odobert’s superb strike was not just a moment of individual brilliance; it lifted Burnley off the bottom of the table and provided a much-needed win. The 19-year-old has shown promise in his limited starts, scoring three goals in five games. Burnley now faces crucial fixtures against Liverpool and Aston Villa before hosting Luton, a must-win game. Securing nine points from these matches could be a game-changer in their battle for survival.

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): Mohamed Salah’s performance against Arsenal left no doubt that he is back to his best. His dismantling of Zinchenko before scoring was a terrifying sight for defenders. Liverpool’s title aspirations hinge on Salah’s brilliance, and they must protect their star player. The looming question is who could replace Salah if he were to leave? The potential lure of the Saudi Pro League’s financial offers could be tempting, but Liverpool’s title hopes depend on keeping him.

Dominic Solanke (Bournemouth): Dominic Solanke’s hat-trick was a standout moment of individual brilliance this week. Bournemouth has nurtured a top-class center-forward who could lead any Premier League team. However, the challenge for the club now is retaining Solanke’s services. A controversial refereeing decision also marred the week, as a wrongly judged tackle cost Nottingham Forest dearly. Refereeing consistency remains a contentious issue in the league.

Jarrod Bowen (West Ham): Despite a disappointing performance from Manchester United in the second half, West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen continues to shine. He has adapted remarkably well to a more central striking role in Michail Antonio’s absence, scoring 11 goals this season. While a top-four finish may be a distant dream for the Hammers, Bowen’s contributions give them hope and something to aim for.

In the Crooks of the Matter, Garth Crooks touches upon the proposed European Super League, which, despite court approval, remains a non-starter due to overwhelming fan opposition. Instead, he highlights the potential strain that Fifa’s expanded Club World Cup could place on professional players. While Arsene Wenger champions the idea of making football “really global,” Crooks questions whether this endeavor comes at the expense of the players’ physical well-being. With European teams like Manchester City automatically qualifying for the tournament, the long-term impact on players’ health is a pressing concern that deserves attention. The question lingers: Who will bear the cost of potential injuries and wear and tear?

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More about Premier League Standout Performances

• BBC Sport – Garth Crooks’ Team of the Week
• Premier League Official Website
• Fifa Club World Cup Information
• Garth Crooks’ Twitter Profile