Coral’s early-season Premier League awards

Best Under-21 Player – Anthony Martial

After a frustrating second season at Old Trafford, Anthony Martial is showing why he’s such an exciting young talent this term.

The 21-year-old has scored three goals and registered two assists in league action so far, despite only making one start. He’s got the best goal return in the top flight at present, averaging 1.85 goals per 90 minutes.

He’s catching the eye with his dribbling too. There can’t be many more terrifying sights for tired defenders right now than a fresh Martial coming on.

Most Improved Player – James Tarkowski

After selling Michael Keane to Everton for £30m, Burnley boss Sean Dyche didn’t go out and spend big on a replacement. Instead, he gave James Tarkowski the chance to step up.

Tarkowski only started four league games last season. The 24-year-old has played every minute so far this season and the Clarets are reaping the rewards. They’re riding high in sixth and have only conceded five goals.

Many defenders are now selected for their ability on the ball ahead of their defensive quality. But Tarkowski seems to relish stopping the opposition. He’s made the most clearances (73) and blocks (17) in the league so far.

Surprise of the Season – Fabian Delph

Fabian Delph was almost the forgotten man at City last season. Injury and competition for places limited the midfielder to just two league starts.

Delph scored a brilliant goal during a brief substitute appearance against Palace last month. And  the England international could be key for the league leaders over the next few months.

Benjamin Mendy’s injury leaves City short at left-back. And Guardiola has opted for Delph as his replacement. The former Aston Villa captain was excellent in the unfamiliar role during the win against Chelsea. He had the most touches in the game (101) and his smart use of the ball helped his team to control the game.

Game of the Season – Arsenal 4-3 Leicester City

For sheer entertainment, the very first game of the campaign is still the standout. It was a breathless match featuring two sides who were dangerous going forward but shaky at the back.

Arsenal’s record signing Alexandre Lacazette opened the scoring after just two minutes. But Leicester responded almost immediately through Shinji Okazaki. Jamie Vardy then scored to give the Foxes the lead, before Danny Welbeck equalised just before the interval.

Another Vardy goal made it 3-2 to Leicester. Arsene Wenger threw on Aaron Ramsey and Olivier Giroud to turn things around. Both substitutes scored in the final 10 minutes to complete a dramatic comeback.

Disappointment of the Season – Everton

Where to start with Everton? The optimism around Goodison Park in the summer feels like a distant memory. The club spent over £130m but have seen little evidence of improvement. Ronald Koeman is now 4/6 favourite to be the next Premier League manager to leave.

The Toffees are 16th and have only picked up one point in the Europa League so far. They look short of pace, ideas and are too open at the back. Things should improve as the campaign goes on but it looks like this will be a wasted season.

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