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The latest batch of English games provided no shortage of intrigue, surprise results, and interesting subplots. From duels between managers to individual brilliance, we examine the primary points coming out of the matches.

Calum McFarlane Makes a Statement Versus A Master Tactician

Calum McFarlane's unforeseen duel with the celebrated tactician recalled memories of previous David vs Goliath coaching battles. In the case of the debutant, embarking on his top-level maiden game, the challenge was ending the Blues' astonishingly bad run of form against the champions. An injury-time strike from Enzo Fernández earned a crucial result, something former managers had failed to accomplish.

2. Liverpool's Struggle to See Out Matches

Even with the German playmaker scoring the net, Arne Slot's team finished frustrated after letting a winning position evaporate at the Cottagers. The issue of being unable to command games when ahead persists, with the squad nearly letting slip identical margins in previous matches. Until Slot's men master the knack of defending a lead, the campaign will remain a difficult process.

Declan Rice Supports Viktor Gyökeres to Find Form

Viktor Gyökeres is experiencing a significant goal drought from live action, but his teammate Declan Rice insists the number nine is nevertheless hugely influential. Rice highlighted his hold-up play and selfless performances as integral to Arsenal's title charge. "The goals are bound to come," was Rice's optimistic assessment for his struggling teammate.

4. Amorim Requires The Slovenian to Find His Edge

With Ruben Amorim's team adopting in a notably cautious fashion, the burden was placed on the offensive partnership to make the difference. Whereas the Brazilian continued his impressive form, Benjamin Sesko suffered another frustrating outing. The young striker has found goals elusive since his major move and missed a excellent opportunity to win the match. The new year presents a pressing need for Sesko to discover his scoring touch.

The Sunderland Star Puts Spurs in a Spin

Régis Le Bris used his creative talent in a deeper position to start, before pushing him up the pitch as the game developed. The decision was masterful, with he turning into the main instigator of the visitor's push for an equaliser. Following directing the woodwork, the midfielder delivered a perfect through ball for the levelling goal. Having found his feet to the demands of the Premier League, his campaign is on the rise.

6. Nuno Wastes Chance to Introduce New Signing

During an dismal performance for West Ham, head coach the Portuguese coach chose not to use any of his available bench players. This included recent acquisition the Brazilian striker, who watched on even with his side's utter failure to score. He suggested it would have been "too harsh" to send the fresh striker into the action. But, with firepower at a premium, the urgency to integrate the 22-year-old quickly is painfully apparent.

Lewis Miley Makes Another Big Case

Lewis Miley turned in another superb display whilst operating at right-back. He was excellent in defence, created the first goal, and set the standard in a stop-start affair. Now that established defenders available, the question for manager Eddie Howe is how to include the incredibly mature player in his natural central midfield role. "Coming Toon line-ups will surely be constructed on Miley," seems an ever more fair statement.

Could the Sean Dyche Impact Wearing Thin at The City Ground?

The manager's early impact at the club was notable, but concerns are now arise about the team's plan B. Forest's transition prowess exists, but seems reduced without previous attackers. Whilst disciplined when defending deep, they can struggle when forced to come from behind. Cheap turnovers in those circumstances has shown punishing, a lesson they must solve immediately.

Igor Thiago's Hot Streak Halts Thomas Frank's Side's Travel Woes

Brentford put in a showing that masked their troubled travel sickness. Central to their commanding victory was the in-form scoring of forward Igor Thiago. The striker's finishing are giving a foundation for the side to progress. Winger Kevin Schade even mentioned the lofty target of a top-seven finish as a possibility, underlining the renewed belief within the camp.

The Clarets