Key Takeaways
- Bernd Leno’s last-gasp stop earns him the keeper spot after Fulham’s 0-0 draw at Brentford.
- Teen star Nico O’Reilly is hailed as the season’s most consistent performer by Deeney.
- Pep Guardiola beats Mikel Arteta to the manager slot following City’s crunch win over Arsenal.
Former Watford striker Troy Deeney has revealed his latest Premier League XI, and it is packed with big names and one rising sensation.
German keeper Bernd Leno edges in after his brilliant stoppage-time save gave Fulham a point at Brentford. Deeney also paired Leno with centre-back Joachim Andersen, praising their dogged defending.
At full-back, Bournemouth’s Adrien Truffert gets the nod. The Frenchman supplied energy and the winning goal in the 2-1 upset at Newcastle, quietly outshining team-mate Alex Jimenez.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk captains Deeney’s back line after his late derby winner against Everton.
In midfield, Manchester City’s 19-year-old Nico O’Reilly steals the headlines. Deeney calls the versatile youngster the league’s most reliable player, highlighting nine goals from what has often been a left-back role.
Joining him are City team-mates Bernardo Silva and Rayan Cherki. Silva dominated the midfield battle versus Arsenal, while Cherki dazzled with a mazy solo strike.
Xavi Simons keeps his place after a goal and an assist in Tottenham’s 2-2 draw with Brighton, although Deeney still fears for Spurs’ survival.
Up front, Morgan Gibbs-White’s hat-trick for Nottingham Forest against Burnley is an automatic ticket, while Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and City’s Erling Haaland complete the front three after more match-winning displays.
Finally, Pep Guardiola is named top boss. Deeney believes the pressure on the Catalan was greater than on Arteta, and his tactical grip on the Arsenal clash proved it.
