Three big lessons learned from the Premier League: August 25

It’s all gone quiet on the Arturo Vidal front, while Van Gaal seems set against using his influence to bring in members of his Netherlands World Cup squad. The versatile Daley Blind would have been ideal, while young centre backs Joel Veltman and Stefan de Vrij showed world class potential.

With the transfer window fast approaching, United need an overhaul, otherwise their title odds of 12/1 could skyrocket.

Chelsea can win the league
There is no denying the fact that Jose Mourinho means business this season. His dealings in the transfer market suggest the ‘Special One’ could even be targeting trophies, plural.

While Diego Costa has been lauded in the media, Chelsea’s best buy is without a doubt Cesc Fabregas, who gives them the edge on other teams. Against a stubborn Leicester, the Blues were patient and considered in their play, but also relentlessly persistent.

Last season, this was a match that they would probably have drawn, the game against West Ham being a classic example, however this new ability to grind out a win will give them the advantage over their rivals.

At 11/10 to win the title, these odds could shorten dramatically, even over the next month. Maybe just one striker short of having the strength to compete on all fronts, Mourinho may consider his options over the coming days, before the transfer window shuts, however, the Blues are head shoulders above most other teams.

Three at the back doesn’t work for QPR
Harry Redknapp needs a re-think. Despite having on paper at least, an impressive back three of Rio Ferdinand, Steven Caulker and Richard Dunne, the 3-4-1-2 system implemented at White Hart Lane against Tottenham clearly failed.

It was a bold move from the former Spurs manager, however his old club were ruthless in their 4-0 dismantling of the Hoops. Mauricio Isla would be better used as winger, rather than a wing back to at least let him focus on what he does best; attacking.

Better balance is needed in defence. A trio of right-footers, including Dunne and Ferdinand who, for all their experience, are in their mid-30s, just didn’t work. Club captain Clint Hill could be an alternative, only he’s no younger than the above pair.

The squad that Redknapp has assembled does have quality, and the signing of Leroy Fer could prove to be an intelligent piece of business given time. Odds-on at 8/15 to stay up, QPR should survive, though they cannot afford too many repeat performances of this horror-show at Spurs.