European Heroes and Villains: Vardy and Kane on fire again

Harry Kane

Tottenham’s in-form Kane was on the end of much criticism at the beginning of this current campaign, having been branded a one-season wonder by many but, after his earlier England goals, he has regained his clinical eye for goal.

The Spurs sharpshooter struck twice in a 4-1 triumph over West Ham United to earn a big three points at White Hart Lane, also helping his side equal a club-record 12 games unbeaten in the Premier League. Kane is now 7/1 to finish top scorer this term, after bagging eight domestic goals so far.

Villains

Manchester City

Returning from the international break, Manuel Pellegrini would have expected his Manchester City outfit to continue their rampant run in the top flight, but a Jurgen Klopp-inspired Liverpool had other ideas.

The Reds arrived at the Etihad full of confidence from the off, with Brazilian pair Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino both dispatching in an emphatic 4-1 away win, leaving Pellegrini to rethink his decision not to start star defender Nicolas Otamendi.

Rafael Benitez

After being on the wrong end of a 4-0 demolition in El Clasico, Benitez now sees his role as Madrid boss come under serious scrutiny, with players such as Ronaldo having also reportedly grown frustrated with his methods.

The former Liverpool coach could soon be another managerial casualty this term, as the Galacticos drop to second-place behind their El Clasico conquerors, but only a point adrift.

Santi Cazorla

Spain international playmaker Cazorla stepped up confidently to take Arsenal’s vital penalty in the dying stages of their defeat to West Bromwich Albion, but he made a complete mess of the spot-kick to ensure a Bagges win on the Premier League’s return.

The Spaniard slipped in the process to send his attempt blazing over the crossbar in a truly John Terry-like moment at The Hawthorns, leaving Arsene Wenger’s Gunners with plenty to think about before their decisive Champions League clash with Dinamo Zagreb.

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