Premier League team of matchweek 1: The season begins!

Right back: Matteo Darmian
The Italian looks the real deal and proved this as Manchester United beat Tottenham 1-0 courtesy of a Kyle Walker own goal. He seems to have the perfect balance between attack and defence, providing better stability on the right for the Red Devils.

Left wing: Riyad Mahrez
An inspired performance from the Algerian, who scored twice and was generally a menace for the Foxes in their 4-2 win over Sunderland. The wily winger can really push on this season and become a key member of Leicester’s team.

Central midfield: Philippe Coutinho
Liverpool’s match against Stoke City was no oil painting by any means, though a moment of artistry from brilliant Brazil international Coutinho handed the Reds all three points at the Britannia. A definite contender for goal of the season with Rodgers’ side, who will grow in confidence, 6/4 for a top four finish this campaign.

Central midfield: Cheikhou Kouyate
Hammers’ all-action Senegalese midfielder was mightily impressive against Arsenal and put in a dominant performance, also opening the scoring from a superb Dimitri Payet free-kick delivery, who is unlucky to miss out on a place in this team. A shout-out has to go out to Kouyate’s 16-year-old midfield partner Reece Oxford who put in an assured performance for someone so young, looking like a seasoned professional.

Right wing: Marc Albrighton
Could this be the season when the 25-year-old former Villa midfielder reaches his potential? Albrighton was one of the best players on the pitch in the Foxes win over Sunderland and capped his performance with a goal.

Striker: Graziano Pelle
A well-taken goal from the Italian who leaped dominantly to hang in the air as he nodded in a superb cross from debutant right back Cedric Soares. Pelle will once again be a key player for Ronald Koeman’s side again this campaign, with the Saints 5/2 for another top six finish.

Striker: Rudy Gestede
Coming off the bench on his Villa debut to score the winner against Bournemouth, the 26-year-old contributed a polished finish to build on his fine form in the Championship last term and he could well be a useful addition for Sherwood’s side this season.