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This past batch of English games delivered no shortage of drama, unexpected scores, and interesting subplots. From battles between bosses to personal masterclasses, we examine the key conversations coming out of the matches.

The Chelsea Boss Makes a Statement Versus Guardiola

The young coach's unexpected battle with the Manchester City boss evoked memories of previous unequal sideline contests. For McFarlane, making his top-level coaching bow, the mission was halting the Blues' dreadful recent record versus Manchester City. An injury-time equaliser from the Argentine midfielder snatched a hard-fought draw, something former managers had found it tough to achieve.

The Reds' Struggle to Close Games Out

Despite their big-money signing scoring the net, the Merseyside club finished disappointed after surrendering a advantage slip versus the Cottagers. The concern of being unable to manage matches when in front continues, with the squad nearly squandering comparable leads in previous weeks. Until Slot's men master the knack of defending a lead, the campaign is likely to stay a frustrating process.

Declan Rice Shows Faith In Gyökeres to Find Form

Viktor Gyökeres is enduring a notable run without scoring from open play, but his fellow star Declan Rice insists the forward is nevertheless vitally important. The midfielder praised the striker's pressing and selfless efforts as crucial to the league leaders form. "Good things are bound to arrive," was the midfielder's optimistic assessment for his struggling strike partner.

The United Boss Must Get The Slovenian to Sharpen Up

With Manchester United lining up in a incredibly cautious manner, the onus rested with the offensive duo to deliver. Whereas Matheus Cunha maintained his excellent form, Benjamin Sesko endured another forgettable afternoon. The young striker has hit the net hard to come by since his high-profile switch and wasted a late chance to win the contest. The new year presents a clear imperative for the striker to find his scoring touch.

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

The Black Cats boss deployed his creative talent in a more defensive position initially, before releasing him into advanced areas as the contest progressed. The switch turned out to be inspired, with the playmaker turning into the main instigator of his team's comeback for an equaliser. Following hitting the post, Le Fée provided a perfect pass for the crucial strike. Now fully adapted to the intensity of the Premier League, his influence is on the rise.

Nuno Espírito Santo Misses Chance to Introduce Pablo

During an dismal defeat for West Ham, boss Nuno chose not to use any of his named substitutes. This included new signing the forward, who watched on even with his team's utter failure to score. The manager reasoned it would have been "unjust" to throw the recently-arrived player into the match. Yet, with goals at a premium, the urgency to integrate the youngster rapidly is abundantly clear.

The Teenager Delivers A Further Big Statement

The 19-year-old delivered another exceptional showing while playing at right-back. The midfielder was impeccable in his own half, set up the first goal, and lifted the team in a scrappy match. Now that specialist full-backs returning, the dilemma for coach the Newcastle boss is how to include the astonishingly mature youngster in his natural central midfield role. "Coming Toon line-ups will undoubtedly be built on the lad," seems an increasingly fair prediction.

Could the Sean Dyche Impact Fading at Forest?

The former Burnley boss's early impact at Nottingham Forest was positive, but concerns are beginning to emerge about the side's plan B. Their transition ability is still there, but looks diminished without key players. While disciplined when protecting a lead, Dyche's men can struggle when required to open up. Giving the ball away in those situations has shown disastrous, a issue they must solve immediately.

9. Thiago's Hot Streak Ends The Bees' Travel Woes

The West London club put in a display that contradicted their poor form on the road. Vital to their commanding display was the red-hot streak of forward the Brazilian. The striker's presence are giving a base for the team to build on. Attacker the German international even mentioned the lofty target of European qualification as a possibility, emphasizing the fresh belief in the team.

Scott Parker's Side