Who Made Troy's Premier League Team of the Week?

This week, Troy Deeney has highlighted standout players in his Team of the Week, including Gianluigi Donnarumma from Manchester City, Reece James of Chelsea, and Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa. Deeney’s choices reflect individual brilliance and crucial contributions during the Premier League matches, prompting discussion on whether these selections resonate with fans and pundits alike.

Last updated: 28 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the Premier League season progresses, players are starting to find their rhythm, and key performances are shaping the title race and relegation battle. With teams jockeying for position, individual accolades such as Deeney’s Team of the Week become a focal point for discussions surrounding player performances. This week, the emphasis has been on players who not only contributed goals but also showcased leadership and resilience on the pitch.

Key takeaways

Gianluigi Donnarumma made crucial saves to secure Manchester City's victory.
Reece James showcased his talent with a stunning free-kick for Chelsea.
Morgan Rogers is emerging as a potential contender for England selection.

Timeline: how we got here

As of the end of October 2023, the Premier League has witnessed several dramatic matches, with a few standout performances shaping the narrative of the season. Key dates include:

1 August 2023: Premier League season began.
30 September 2023: Notable performances start shaping Team of the Week selections.
28 October 2023: Troy Deeney announces his Team of the Week following the latest round of matches.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

This week, players like Morgan Rogers and Nick Woltemade have emerged as key figures, with their performances sparking discussions about their potential roles in national selection. Deeney's selections reflect the current form of these players, highlighting their importance in crucial matches.

What was already established

Players such as Erling Haaland and Reece James have consistently been recognised for their talents, and their inclusion in Deeney's Team of the Week is indicative of their ongoing impact in the league. Haaland, in particular, continues to be a goal-scoring machine for Manchester City.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The excitement surrounding individual performances can influence viewership and engagement in football, leading to increased interest in matches and related events. As fans rally around their favourite players, merchandise sales and attendance at games may see a boost.

Businesses and jobs

Football clubs rely heavily on star players to drive ticket sales and merchandise. Individual performances can enhance a club's marketability, potentially attracting sponsorship deals and partnerships that benefit the local economy.

Policy and regulation

The Premier League's governance and regulations about player transfers, contracts, and the financial implications of high-profile players remain central to discussions among clubs and governing bodies. This impacts how clubs manage their rosters and financial health.

Numbers that matter

5: Goals scored by Morgan Rogers in the last four matches.
3: Key saves made by Gianluigi Donnarumma that maintained Manchester City's lead.
2: Goals scored by Erling Haaland, bringing his total to 149 in all competitions for Manchester City.

Definitions and jargon buster

Team of the Week: A selection of standout players from the latest round of matches, usually chosen by pundits.
Pundit: A person who offers commentary and analysis on a particular subject, often in sports.
Relegation battle: The struggle of teams to avoid being demoted to a lower league at the end of the season.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans should anticipate ongoing shifts in player performances as the season heads towards the busy festive schedule, impacting Team of the Week selections and potential national team considerations.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the season progresses, clubs will assess their rosters, and standout performances may lead to transfer speculations and potential signings in January.

Signals to watch

Player injuries that may impact team performance.
Upcoming fixtures that could highlight or diminish a player’s form.
Formations and tactics used by managers that may favour certain players.

Practical guidance

Do

Follow player performances closely to understand their impact on the league.
Engage in discussions about potential Team of the Week selections.

Don’t

Overlook the importance of teamwork behind individual accolades.
Neglect the influence of player fitness on their performances.

Checklist

Identify key players to watch in upcoming matches.
Stay updated with injury reports that may affect team dynamics.
Engage with fan forums to discuss player performances and selections.
Monitor the standings to see how individual performances impact club success.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

Player performances can be inconsistent due to factors such as injuries, changes in team dynamics, or managerial tactics. The nature of football means that standout performances can be fleeting, and assessing long-term potential requires a broader view of a player’s career trajectory.

Bottom line

Troy Deeney’s Team of the Week reflects not just individual brilliance but also the broader narrative of the Premier League season. As fans engage with these selections, it highlights the importance of recognising players who contribute to their teams' successes amid a competitive landscape.

FAQs

What is the criteria for Team of the Week selections?

The Team of the Week is typically selected based on players' performances, including goals scored, assists, defensive contributions, and overall impact during matches.

How do pundits like Troy Deeney choose their selections?

Pundits analyse match footage, player statistics, and overall contributions to the team's performance to make informed selections for their Team of the Week.

Can a player be selected multiple times in a season?

Yes, players can be selected multiple times for the Team of the Week if they continue to perform at a high level throughout the season.