With the Premier League action in full swing after the close of the transfer window, we have seen the new signings slowly settle and gel with their teammates and form a chemistry. A number of teams who were active in the transfer window were in dire need of players and they signed players in hope that the new additions could have a positive impact on their fortunes which had nosedived since the start of the season.
With still 13 matches to go in the season, a lot can happen from now until the end of the season. The fight at the top is extremely close and similarly, the gap between the bottom teams is negligible due to which the table is bearing a different look with every passing Matchweek.
Let us take a brief look at 3 players who can have a telling say on the direction their clubs will be heading in, come the end of the season.
MAMADOU SAKHO
The defensive beast who was frozen out at Liverpool was signed on deadline day by Crystal Palace. He was one of the 3 defenders to arrive but is yet to play any meaningful part and with Premier League football resuming next weekend, he is expected to have a firm say on proceedings. He will bring in a degree of solidity and a touch of class to the back and although Palace have struggled at both ends of the pitch, if the base of the team is solid enough, they can start to improve. Sakho will surely play an important part in the remainder of the season if the Eagles are to secure a respectable finish.
MANOLO GABBIADINI
The Italian striker was the centre of attention of a lot of Premier League clubs but Puel stole a march on his rivals and secured his signature. The Saints were woefully blunt in front of goal and the signing was seen as a huge boost but the initial displays from Manolo have indeed been a shot in the arm of the players.
He has already scored 3 goals in 2 appearances averaging a goal every 54 minutes. He will be a vital part of their rest of the campaign as Puel and the Saints look to go on the offensive to deal with their defensive frailties.
ROBERT SNODGRASS
The Hull City winger quit the Tigers’ as he decided against seeing out his contract and with their hands tied, the club had to sell him. With Payet also deserting West Ham United, there was a need for attacking reinforcements. The Hammers went for unrealistic targets in the summer and ended up with burnt hands but in the signing of Snodgrass, they have shown the willingness to learn from their mistakes. He offers a much more stable and safe option and with his Premier League expertise, is likely to have a telling say on West Ham’s season.
