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Troy Deeney's Premier League Team of the Week: Verbruggen, Rice, and Awoniyi Star
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Troy Deeney's Premier League Team of the Week: Verbruggen, Rice, and Awoniyi Star

1 hour ago·2 min

BBC football pundit Troy Deeney has named his Premier League team of the week following the latest round of fixtures, with standout performances from a goalkeeper, a handful of defenders, and two strikers stealing the headlines.

Goalkeeper and defence

Bart Verbruggen earns the goalkeeper spot after a commanding display for Brighton, making a string of critical saves — including one that struck him in the face — to prevent what Deeney believes should have been a two- or three-goal defeat.

The back four is entirely from north London. Archie Gray of Tottenham Hotspur gets credit for scoring and defending under pressure during a difficult run for Spurs, while Jan Paul van Hecke, also of Tottenham, continues to grow into his role alongside Micky van de Ven. Deeney acknowledges van Hecke may have been overpriced but praises his solid start and his ability to attack aggressively knowing Van de Ven's pace provides cover.

Both Arsenal full-backs complete the defensive line. Ezri Konsa is praised for a combative, all-action display, while Jurrien Timber earns his place despite escaping a potential red card for a shirt pull on Alexander Isak that neither the referee nor VAR reviewed.

Midfield

Romeo Lavia is recognised for his Chelsea performance, with Deeney arguing that for the 60 minutes before Manchester United were reduced to 10 men, Lavia was the only player providing consistency — breaking up play, recycling possession, and adding an assist. Declan Rice, named as a captain's performance, rounds out the midfield with his all-action display for Arsenal, which also included a contribution to a goal.

Tatsuhiro Sakamoto of Coventry City receives recognition for his hard work and humility, delivering when it mattered most for his side.

Attack

Johan Manzambi, 21, is included after another assist for Aston Villa, where he has taken on a starring role. Deeney notes that Fulham struggled to contain him before he was substituted with the UEFA Champions League match against Barcelona in mind.

Ollie McBurnie of Hull City earns his place through sheer industry — goals, assists, and relentless effort that Deeney says perfectly captures the spirit of the club.

Taiwo Awoniyi completes the attack with what Deeney calls an unbelievable solo goal for Coventry, hailing the striker's return to form as potentially decisive in the club's survival fight.

Manager of the week

Frank Lampard takes the manager of the week award for guiding Coventry to a result against Sunderland in a crucial six-point contest, with his team playing aggressively and effectively. Deeney also extends a special mention to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta for securing a win at Liverpool.

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