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This past batch of English fixtures provided a wealth of drama, surprise results, and interesting subplots. Ranging from clashes between coaches to individual brilliance, we examine the key points emerging from the games.

Calum McFarlane Makes a Statement Against Guardiola

Calum McFarlane's unexpected confrontation with the Manchester City boss recalled thoughts of past David vs Goliath coaching battles. For the Chelsea boss, embarking on his top-level coaching bow, the challenge was overcoming Chelsea's dreadful sequence when playing Guardiola's side. A dramatic goal from the Chelsea star snatched a crucial draw, something past managers had failed to achieve.

2. Liverpool's Inability to Shut Up Shop

Despite the German playmaker getting the net, Liverpool ended up frustrated after letting a lead evaporate versus Marco Silva's side. The problem of not managing to control matches when in the lead remains, with the team almost squandering similar leads in earlier matches. Until the team master the art of seeing out a game, the season is likely to stay a frustrating process.

Declan Rice Supports Viktor Gyökeres to Start Scoring

Arsenal's striker is going through a notable dry spell from live action, but his teammate Declan Rice is adamant the number nine is nevertheless hugely important. He highlighted the striker's pressing and unselfish contributions as integral to Arsenal's title charge. "Success are going to arrive," was his supportive message for his struggling strike partner.

4. Amorim Needs Sesko to Sharpen Up

Given the Red Devils lining up in a notably cautious fashion, the responsibility was placed on the offensive duo to deliver. While the Brazilian maintained his impressive performances, the summer signing endured another frustrating game. He has found goals hard to come by since his high-profile switch and spurned a late chance to claim the match. The new year presents a clear need for him to regain his scoring touch.

The Sunderland Star Puts Ange Postecoglou's Side in a Muddle

Régis Le Bris positioned Enzo Le Fée in a deeper position initially, before pushing him up the pitch as the game progressed. The switch was masterful, with the playmaker turning into the chief creator of the visitor's fightback for an equaliser. Following hitting the woodwork, the midfielder provided a exquisite assist for the levelling finish. Having settled in to the intensity of the Premier League, his campaign continues to grow.

The West Ham Manager Wastes Opportunity to Use New Signing

In a embarrassing loss for the Hammers, head coach Nuno opted not to use any of his available substitutes. This meant recent acquisition the forward, who stayed on the bench even with his club's complete failure to score. He felt it would have been "unfair" to send the new striker into the match. Yet, with goals at a dearth, the urgency to assimilate the new boy as soon as possible is abundantly clear.

The Teenager States Another Huge Statement

The teenage sensation produced another outstanding display while playing at right-back. The youngster was excellent in his own half, created the breakthrough, and lifted the team in a stop-start affair. Now that specialist full-backs available, the dilemma for coach him is if to include the remarkably composed player in his preferred engine room berth. "Coming Magpies sides will surely be designed with the lad," seems an ever more fair assessment.

8. Is the Sean Dyche Impact Fading at Forest?

The manager's first impact at the club was admirable, but questions are now emerge about the team's adaptability. The team's transition prowess is still there, but seems diminished in the absence of key personnel. While disciplined when defending deep, Forest have been exposed when forced to come from behind. Giving the ball away in these moments has proven punishing, a issue they need to address immediately.

9. Thiago's Hot Streak Halts Brentford's Away-Day Blues

The West London club produced a display that belied their poor away record. Key to their commanding victory was the in-form form of number nine the Brazilian. His goals are offering a foundation for the side to progress. Teammate the German international even floated the optimistic dream of continental football as a target, emphasizing the renewed belief within the camp.

The Clarets