One of the toughest leagues in world football, the Premier League is usually a case of sink or swim for players and it can be notoriously difficult for someone to claw their way back to the surface when their standards begin to fade away — especially given the added pressure applied by supporters and the media when a player’s performances start to fall below the standard required to make it in the top flight.
However, whilst some players seem to just disappear off the face of the earth to never be seen again, this season is perhaps proof that players who have been underperforming can redeem themselves, with serval players in the Premier League starting to find form seemingly out of nowhere and helping bolster their side’s chances in the football betting odds by popping up with goals and assists or even just solid performances.
Of course, it is still early days in what already promises to be an exciting season and form can go out just the window just as quickly as it is discovered. But, with all that in mind, let’s take a look at three players who are starting to win back plaudits for their performances this campaign. Read on to find out more
Andros Townsend – Everton
Released by Crystal Palace in June upon the end of his contract, bringing an end to five years at Selhurst Park, many questioned what was next for Andros Townsend. He had left much to be desired in south London over the last couple of seasons, and whilst he had the chance to test the waters abroad, it was an easy decision for him to link up with Rafa Benítez at Goodison Park. He has settled in straight away at Everton, and has proved to be a key player so far this season for the Toffees, scoring three goals and assisting twice in seven Premier League games, whilst also bagging two goals and an assist in two League Cup fixtures. His late equaliser against Manchester United, when he covered 90 metres to join the counter attack, finished beautifully and brilliantly mocked Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal celebration at Old Trafford, was testament to his ability.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek – Chelsea
After a lengthy period on the sidelines through injury was made longer thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, as well as a rather tame 12 months on loan at Fulham, not many people would have thought Ruben Loftus-Cheek would be edging his way in to Thomas Tuchel’s plans this season, especially as Chelsea are largely considered to be title contenders. But, earlier this year, the German boss made it no secret that he is a big admirer of the midfielder, comparing him to former Stamford Bridge favourite Michael Ballack, and the 25-year-old is starting to be given the chance to prove his worth in a Chelsea shirt. Loftus-Cheek wasn’t thrown straight back in to the fold though. It wasn’t until the Carabao Cup victory over Aston Villa in mid-September that he made his first start, and his maiden Premier League start came over two weeks later in a 3-1 win over Southampton at the Bridge. Minutes may be few and far between, but with some decent performances, he is slowly proving that he deserves his place with the current Champions of Europe.
Shane Duffy – Brighton & Hobe Albion
When Shane Duffy went on loan to his boyhood club Celtic last summer, it’s fair to say that many felt the Irish centre-back had played his last game at the AMEX Stadium on the south coast. And, given that the 29-year-old had struggled for form up in Scotland, becoming a regular target by fans and the media for the Bhoys’ extremely poor performances, it was hard to imagine him ever earning his starting place back at Brighton in the Premier League. But he has quickly reestablished himself back down in England, playing a key role in the Seagulls’ early season form and helping Graham Potter’s side becoming a difficult unit to break down at the back. He even got on the scoresheet in the 2-0 win over Watford. Back in the Republic of Ireland setup after being dropped due to his form at Celtic, Duffy must be flying high at the minute.
