Premier League - Weeks 1 & 2 Review

Arsenal

With Alexis Sanchez absent from the starting line-up for the season opener against West Ham, Arsenal seemed to struggle to find their feet despite a promising pre-season. Fans would have been filled with hope after their Community Shield victory against Chelsea, but may have been left unsure after the opening game as the Gunners disappointed in a 2-0 opening day loss. Olivier Giroud struggled throughout the game and Wenger could well go back into the transfer market to look for a new striker to lead the attack. Talk of Karim Benzema arriving has simmered down to mere whispers which may upset the Arsenal faithful. Petr Cech’s competitive debut was less than convincing, however I’m sure it was simply a blip in form and he will prove his worth in the upcoming fixtures. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was possibly the Gunners’ only bright spark during the game, however Sanchez’s return following his rest after the Copa America saw him return to the bench for the match against Crystal Palace.

Swansea - Weeks 1 & 2 Review

A strong performance from Garry Monk’s Swansea City side saw them come from behind twice in their opening fixture against reigning champions, Chelsea. A resolute attitude throughout the team meant Swansea’s perseverance and good decision making in attack brought them through the game, to leave Stamford Bridge with a point. A composed finish from new boy Andre Ayew brought Swansea level after 29 minutes, however the joy was short lived as a Fernandez own goal brought Chelsea level just 1 minute later. In the second half, Swansea continued to threaten Chelsea’s goal and striker Bafetimbi Gomis won a penalty early on as Chelsea’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois saw red. Gomis dispatched the penalty to draw them level once more. Swansea couldn’t take advantage of the situation, but will be pleased to leave with a point.

2015/2016 Preview - Swansea

Andre Ayew is a big addition to the Swans this year, and with Gomis up front filling a similar role to Bony last year, Swansea may hope to finish near where they did last time, in 8th position. However, whilst Monk proved himself a good tactician and good with the squad, I find it hard to see Swansea repeating last year's form, and have them down to finish in 14th. I'm unsure how lethal that attack really is, although Sigurdsson is brilliant at adding to the strike force, and the midfield doesn't seem to have a cutting edge, just a lot of pace. The defence may struggle too, and Swansea could find themselves facing more difficulties this year than expected.