Today was another exciting day in the English Premier League with 29 goals scored across 8 games. Here are 4 things we learnt from Saturday's action.
Rooney Dropped
Wayne Rooney was dropped to the bench with Juan Mata coming in to take over the number 10 role. Mata would go onto score one and create one as Manchester United go onto beat Leicester City 4-1. Rooney may now find it very difficult to win back a starting place in the United team, especially in the Premier League. He will still play a role in the Europa League and Cup competition games as Mourinho will want to rotate the squad.
Defoe still knows where the goal is
Jermaine Defoe continues to be ruthless in front of goal with another brace for Sunderland. It would not be his or Sunderland's day though as they throw away a two goal lead and fall to defeat by Crystal Palace with a last minute Benteke goal taking all three points for Palace. 3-2 the final score.
Go on my Son
Son Heung-min scores both goals as Tottenham survive a late Middlesbrough surge to win 2-1 at the Riverside. Son, who had failed to hold a permanent place in the Tottenham starting eleven and looked set for a move away from Spurs over the summer, has made himself into an essential member of the starting lineup. Son was not available for selection at the very start of the season as he was away representing South Korea at the Rio Olympics. Since coming back though he has scored four goals in four games.
Arsenal announce their title challenge
At the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal dismantled a dismal Chelsea team, 3-0. Arsenal were 2-0 up after just 14 minutes and never looked back. This showing really highlights the quality that Arsenal have available to them with Alexis Sanchez unplayable. When it works for Arsenal, it works really well. It was notable when Sanchez was substituted that Arsenal's threat subsided and Chelsea had their best spells of possession. Keeping him fit will be essential to Arsenal's dream of winning another Premier League title.
And the rest...
Liverpool beat Hull, 5-1, with Hull down to 10 men after 29 minutes.
Bournemouth inflicted defeat on Everton for the first time this season with a 1-0 win.
Stoke and West Brom shared the points with a 1-1 draw, West Brom scoring in the final minute.
Manchester City maintained their 4 point lead at the top of the table with a 3-1 win at Swansea City. If you are looking for a title favorite look no further than the blue side of Manchester.