Brentford have scored nine and conceded six in their last two Premier League home games. While their defense didn't cost them in victories over Wolves and Ipswich, Harry Wilson's injury-time double at Fulham highlighted the need for improvement. Wilson's goals both came from crosses, with Brentford allowing Fulham 43 crosses. Thomas Frank remains surprisingly relaxed despite the defensive lapses. Bournemouth's wingers and full-backs may target the space out wide.
Eddie Nketiah's hamstring injury leaves Crystal Palace short on firepower ahead of their crucial home game against Fulham. With Eberechi Eze also out, Daichi Kamada could shoulder the creative burden after his League Cup winner against Aston Villa. The Japan forward, the club's highest-paid player, appears to have found his form.
West Ham's Lucas Paquetá has struggled this season, facing a potential lengthy ban for breaching FA betting regulations. Despite his unfocused play, Paquetá remains West Ham's most creative talent. His performance against Everton will be crucial, assuming he retains his place in Julen Lopetegui's starting XI.
Southampton's Mateus Fernandes has impressed, particularly with his five-year contract signed in August. The central midfielder, who played under Rúben Amorim at Sporting, has been key in linking defense and attack. Russell Martin praised Fernandes' form, which is attracting attention from other clubs.
Brighton's record against Manchester City is less than stellar, with their last victory over Pep Guardiola's side dating back to 2020-21. Fabian Hürzeler will aim to take the top spot after failing to get results against Liverpool. Brighton's attacking threats should make it a challenging afternoon for City.
Aston Villa must learn quickly from their collapse at Tottenham, especially with Liverpool's recent improvements. Arne Slot's deployment of Luis Díaz as a central striker against Leverkusen proved successful, with Díaz scoring a hat-trick. The decision was influenced by the absences of Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa.
Manchester United's game against Leicester serves as a farewell to interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy and the start of Rúben Amorim's tenure. Van Nistelrooy hopes to stay on in some capacity, but a win over Leicester would be valuable for his continued employment.
Nottingham Forest's impressive form has them sitting third in the table, with Chris Wood's clinical performances a key factor. Wood has eight goals in 10 games, flourishing under Nuno Espírito Santo's guidance. His performance against Newcastle will be crucial, having scored four in 35 league appearances for the club.
Ange Postecoglou welcomes the league's second-worst defense to north London after two straight 4-1 home victories. Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna will need a strategic plan to secure their first victory of the season. Jens Cajuste could replace Kalvin Phillips in midfield.
Chelsea may get another chance to prove they are not solely reliant on Cole Palmer. Mauricio Pochettino coined the phrase during a trip to Arsenal last April. Palmer's injury status is uncertain, and Enzo Maresca may need other attacking midfielders to step up.
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