Troy Deeney names ‘the best player in world football to watch’, he’s even better than Lamine Yamal
Troy Deeney named Declan Rice, Ollie Watkins, Ryan Gravenberch and several more stars in his Premier League team of the week.
Rice put in a brilliant display as Arsenal beat Brighton on Saturday, despite having to fill in at right-back in the absence of Jurrien Timber.
The midfielder was up and down the right flank throughout the game, and had a hand in the winner when Georginio Rutter inadvertently flicked his corner past Bart Verbruggen.
Ollie Watkins did not even start on Saturday, but drew huge acclaim when he scored a brace off the bench in Aston Villa’s 2-1 win over Chelsea.
Ryan Gravenberch scored the opener and put in a superb performance as Liverpool beat Wolves 2-1 at Anfield.
Troy Deeney waxes lyrical about Rayan Cherki
Rayan Cherki has been in stunning form for Manchester City, and Saturday’s win over Nottingham Forest was no different.
The midfielder played a lovely reverse pass to set up Tijjani Reijnders‘ opening goal, and half-volleyed in the winner in the closing stages.
It was yet another exceptional performance from the France international, who is looking more and more like a coup for Pep Guardiola‘s team.
Cherki has already amassed seven assists in the Premier League this season, despite only appearing in 13 games.
The 22-year-old missed around a month of action at the start of the season, and it no surprise that Manchester City have taken a step up since his return to the starting line-up.
In his team of the week selection for BBC Sport, Troy Deeney wrote: “For me, he’s the best player in world football to watch at the moment.
“He tries things and he’s confident on the ball. Even when he makes mistakes, he doesn’t care and tries again. He finished the weekend with a goal and an assist.
“He’s the most exciting footballer to watch at this moment in time, and I say that over Lamine Yamal and everyone else.”
The stats behind Cherki’s masterclass vs Nottingham Forest
Cherki’s performance will, rightly, be remembered for his goal and assist, but the midfielder was excellent in all areas.
He created three chances throughout the game, and took on four shots. In addition, the Frenchman completed two dribbles and won a free-kick.
But there were defensive aspects to his game, as well. Cherki registered three recoveries, made two tackles and completed an interception as well.
In the duel, he was largely dominant, winning five of his eight on the ground. With the 22-year-old in that type of form, it is hard to see Manchester City slowing down.