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This past set of top-flight fixtures provided a wealth of drama, unexpected scores, and interesting subplots. From clashes between bosses to personal masterclasses, we examine the key discussions stemming from the encounters.

The Chelsea Boss Stands Firm Versus Guardiola

The young coach's unexpected battle with the celebrated tactician recalled memories of earlier unequal sideline contests. For the debutant, embarking on his senior coaching bow, the mission was halting his side's woeful sequence versus Manchester City. A last-gasp equaliser from the Chelsea star earned a hard-fought draw, something past incumbents had failed to achieve.

2. Liverpool's Struggle to Shut Up Shop

Despite the German playmaker scoring the net, Liverpool were left disappointed after surrendering a advantage evaporate versus Marco Silva's side. The concern of failing to control encounters when in the lead continues, with the squad almost throwing away similar advantages in earlier weeks. Until they learn the knack of seeing out a game, the campaign is likely to stay a difficult process.

Declan Rice Backs The Swedish Striker to Find Form

Viktor Gyökeres is enduring a notable goal drought from general play, but his fellow star the England international is adamant the player is nevertheless immensely important. The midfielder pointed to Gyökeres' work off the ball and team-oriented performances as crucial to the league leaders form. "The goals are bound to arrive," was his supportive message for his struggling teammate.

4. Amorim Requires The Slovenian to Find His Edge

Given Ruben Amorim's team setting up in a incredibly cautious fashion, the onus rested with the offensive duo to deliver. Whereas Matheus Cunha maintained his fine run, Benjamin Sesko experienced another forgettable afternoon. The Slovenian has hit the net elusive since his major move and spurned a late chance to win the contest. The new year presents a clear need for him to discover his scoring touch.

Enzo Le Fée Puts Ange Postecoglou's Side in a Spin

The Black Cats boss deployed his creative talent in a deeper position to start, before unleashing him into advanced areas as the contest progressed. The move turned out to be inspired, with he becoming the main instigator of the visitor's fightback for an equalizing goal. Following glancing the upright, he delivered a sumptuous through ball for the all-important goal. Having found his feet to the intensity of the Premier League, his campaign continues to grow.

Nuno Espírito Santo Misses Chance to Bed In New Signing

Amid an embarrassing performance for the London club, head coach the Portuguese coach opted against use any of his permitted bench players. This included new signing the forward, who stayed on the bench despite his team's complete lack of threat. He felt it would have been "unfair" to send the new striker into the action. But, with scoring at a shortage, the urgency to integrate the new boy rapidly is glaringly apparent.

The Teenager Delivers Yet Another Big Claim

The 19-year-old produced a further exceptional display whilst playing out of position. The youngster was impeccable in his defensive duties, created the breakthrough, and lifted the team in a untidy encounter. With specialist full-backs back, the conundrum for manager the Newcastle boss is how to include the incredibly talented teenager in his preferred central midfield berth. "Future Newcastle sides will surely be designed on the lad," seems an ever more safe statement.

Could the Dyche Effect Running Out at Nottingham Forest?

The manager's first effect at Forest was notable, but concerns are now arise about the squad's adaptability. The team's transition prowess exists, but appears diminished without previous personnel. Although well-organised when protecting a lead, they can struggle when needing to open up. Cheap turnovers in those circumstances has proven punishing, a problem they need to address immediately.

The Striker's Hot Streak Stops Thomas Frank's Side's Poor Road Form

Thomas Frank's team delivered a performance that belied their troubled away record. Vital to their impressive win was the in-form form of forward Igor Thiago. His presence are giving a foundation for the team to aim higher. Winger he even floated the lofty aspiration of a top-seven finish as a possibility, emphasizing the fresh belief in the camp.

Scott Parker's Side