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The most recent batch of English games delivered no shortage of excitement, shock outcomes, and interesting subplots. From duels between bosses to individual brilliance, we examine the major discussions coming out of the encounters.

The Chelsea Boss Holds His Own When Facing A Master Tactician

Calum McFarlane's unforeseen confrontation with the Manchester City boss evoked recollections of past David vs Goliath coaching battles. For McFarlane, embarking on his top-level maiden game, the challenge was ending Chelsea's dreadful sequence when playing the champions. A dramatic equaliser from Enzo Fernández secured a crucial result, a feat previous incumbents had struggled to do.

The Reds' Inability to Close Games Out

Even with the German playmaker scoring the net, Arne Slot's team were left aggrieved after allowing a lead evaporate versus the Cottagers. The issue of being unable to control games when in front continues, with the squad previously squandering identical margins in recent outings. Until Slot's men master the knack of defending a lead, the season promises to be a frustrating affair.

The Arsenal Midfielder Shows Faith In The Swedish Striker to Find Form

The Swedish forward is going through a lengthy dry spell from live action, but his teammate Declan Rice has stressed the number nine is nonetheless vitally important. The midfielder highlighted his hold-up play and selfless efforts as crucial to Arsenal's success. "Good things are bound to follow," was the midfielder's supportive prediction for his misfiring teammate.

The United Boss Needs The Slovenian to Find His Edge

With Manchester United adopting in a notably cautious fashion, the onus fell on the attacking partnership to deliver. While one forward maintained his impressive form, Benjamin Sesko endured another frustrating outing. The young striker has scored elusive since his big-money transfer and missed a late chance to win the contest. The coming months offers a obvious requirement for the striker to find his form.

Enzo Le Fée Puts Tottenham in a Muddle

Régis Le Bris used his creative talent in a deeper role initially, before releasing him up the pitch as the game progressed. The move was masterful, with he turning into the chief creator of the visitor's fightback for an leveler. After hitting the woodwork, Le Fée supplied a perfect through ball for the crucial goal. Now fully adapted to the pace of the English game, his influence continues to grow.

Nuno Espírito Santo Misses Chance to Introduce Pablo

During an woeful performance for West Ham, boss Nuno decided not to use any of his available replacements. This meant January recruit Pablo Felipe, who watched on even with his team's utter failure to score. The manager suggested it would have been "too harsh" to introduce the recently-arrived recruit into the fray. Yet, with goals at a shortage, the need to assimilate the youngster rapidly is abundantly apparent.

The Teenager Delivers A Further Big Claim

The 19-year-old produced yet another exceptional showing while playing out of position. He was impeccable in defence, created the opening goal, and set the standard in a untidy encounter. Now that first-choice full-backs back, the dilemma for coach him is if to accommodate the remarkably talented youngster in his best engine room role. "Future Magpies line-ups will certainly be designed around the lad," seems an increasingly accurate statement.

Could the New Manager Bounce Wearing Thin at Forest?

The manager's initial effect at the club was admirable, but questions are beginning to emerge about the squad's plan B. The team's counter-attacking ability remains, but seems reduced in the absence of key personnel. While structured when protecting a lead, they have looked vulnerable when required to come from behind. Cheap turnovers in those situations has proven disastrous, a lesson they have to address rapidly.

Igor Thiago's Scoring Form Stops The Bees' Poor Road Form

Brentford put in a showing that masked their poor form on the road. Vital to their commanding display was the in-form form of number nine Igor Thiago. Thiago's goals are providing a base for the side to aim higher. Winger he even floated the lofty aspiration of European qualification as a target, underlining the growing belief coursing through the camp.

The Clarets