Keeping it clean
Manchester City
Manchester City’s menace in attack may be catching the eye, but the most significant change is in defence. That’s three clean sheets now. If City have solved their defensive problems, no one will catch them this season.
Threat neutralised
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Tony Pulis
Two strange decisions from Tony Pulis yesterday: a goal down, against ten men, he removed Callum McManaman and James Morrison, his two biggest threats. In doing so, he made Chelsea’s task much simpler.
Stoke in safe hands
Jack Butland
Stoke had tremendous faith in Jack Butland this summer — handing him a new contract and allowing Asmir Begovic to leave. Already, it looks like they were right to do so. That is what happens when you take care over a young player’s progress.
Hodgson’s choice
Callum Wilson
If Jamie Vardy is on the fringes of the England squad, it can’t be long before Callum Wilson overtakes him. He is five years younger, quicker and a better finisher. He looks, in short, far better suited to international football.
Window shopping
Selling clubs
I saw Dagenham & Redbridge play Wycombe on Saturday. It was curious to see two teams who rely on selling players play in a style that allows none of their stars to shine. If you want clubs to spend money, they need to see something they can use.