With just 13 Match weeks remaining in the Premier League season, it is a do or die situation for all the teams fighting their own personal battles in the 20-team league. There have been surprises and there have been things we have gotten used to but the topsy-turvy nature of the League has made sure that there isn’t a dull moment and that none of the players can afford to be laid back and take things easy at any point of the season. Like every season, there was the customary expectations tag attached to different players who were touted to do take a hold of the proceedings and leave a mark on the League.
Some were newcomers, some were experienced while some player with a feel of the League for whom the stage was set. But along with a number of success stories, there have been a number of players who have failed to live up to the expectations.
But we will be looking at 3 players who have lived up to the expectations and have mildly surprised us.
ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC
Yes, the Big Swede has a habit of scoring truckload of goals and has flourished in every league he has played in. He was coming off a season where he had scored 50 odd goals. But at 35 years and coming in on a free transfer, it can be safe to say even United probably hadn’t expected such a telling impact. The Premier League is considered far superior in terms of work-rate and the difference in quality between the teams is negligible especially in the League format, without a winter-break. But he has swept aside all presumptions and with 23 goals this season has proven his mettle once again.
JERMAIN DEFOE
Another proven Premier League marksman, who has seen it and done it all in England. But a part of a team in tatters, the way he has put his hands up and responded has been nothing short of phenomenal.
Sunderland, for most parts this season, hasn’t been able to field their first eleven and have been a team stitched together at times. But he has not let that affect his displays and has been clinical. He has kept fit amongst all the ruin and has 14 goals in 25 games which is absolutely phenomenal.
MICHAIL ANTONIO
The West Ham United hasn’t set the Premier League alight as such but he has played an important part in the process which has seen the Hammers able to recover after a horrendous start. While he has tailed off it recent weeks, his goals played the most important part in keeping the team in a situation from where they could make a comeback. He has been played at right-back, in the right-wing and even as a striker against Manchester United. He has given his best and with 8 goals and 5 assists is a player, if he regains his early season form, can wreak havoc once again.
