The Premier League action in Gameweek 8 was filled with excitement, controversy, and remarkable individual performances. With five red cards shown across ten matches, it was a weekend where referees took center stage. Despite this, the spotlight remained on a few standout players who delivered match-winning contributions for their respective teams. From stunning saves to crucial goals, these players were pivotal in securing valuable points.
6. Bart Verbruggen (Brighton)
Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen was nothing short of a wall between the posts during their visit to St James’ Park against Newcastle United. The Seagulls secured a valuable 1-0 victory, thanks in large part to Verbruggen’s exceptional goalkeeping display.
The Dutch shot-stopper made six crucial saves, with two spectacular stops denying Alexander Isak, who was desperate to break through. Verbruggen’s ability to read the game, his positioning, and his reflexes were impeccable throughout the match. His contribution was so vital that after the game, the goalkeeper remarked, “If you work this hard, then you deserve a result.” Brighton’s first shot of the game saw Danny Welbeck score, but it was Verbruggen’s heroics that secured all three points, leaving Newcastle frustrated.
5. Josko Gvardiol (Manchester City)
Josko Gvardiol is quickly proving to be more than just a rock in Manchester City’s defense—he’s becoming a reliable source of goals. The Croatian defender has already found the back of the net six times since joining City in the summer of 2023. His ability to score crucial goals was on full display during City’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Wolves.
Gvardiol’s equalizer was a thing of beauty. With City trailing and Wolves looking to frustrate the reigning champions, Gvardiol unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the area, curling it past Jose Sa with his weaker right foot. His goal not only leveled the score but also injected life into a City side struggling to break down Wolves’ defense. Gvardiol’s knack for scoring from range has proven crucial, as City continue to be the dominant force in the league, scoring 25% of all goals from outside the box this season.
4. Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest)
Elliot Anderson has quickly become a fan favorite at Nottingham Forest after his summer move from Newcastle United. With Forest’s playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White serving a suspension, Anderson was given the freedom to roam in the final third—and he delivered in style.
Forest’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace was largely due to Anderson’s creative spark. His ability to navigate between defenders and make intelligent runs was on full display. The midfielder danced through Crystal Palace’s defense, creating opportunities and contributing to Forest’s rise to eighth in the table. His technical ability and work rate have been praised by manager Steve Cooper, and it’s clear that Anderson has the potential to become one of Forest’s most influential players this season.
3. Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United)
Alejandro Garnacho continues to be one of Manchester United’s brightest young talents. The Argentine winger was a constant threat during United’s 2-1 win over Brentford, scoring a stunning volley to level the match just before halftime.
With Brentford’s controversial opener still fresh in the minds of United’s players and fans, Garnacho provided the perfect response. His expertly controlled volley from a deep cross showed both composure and technique. Garnacho has now scored two Premier League goals this season, making him the only United player to have scored more than once in the league. His performances are quickly solidifying his place as one of United’s most important attacking outlets.
2. Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham Hotspur)
Dejan Kulusevski has been a standout performer for Tottenham Hotspur this season, and his contributions in Spurs’ 3-1 win over West Ham were nothing short of spectacular. The Swedish winger not only scored Tottenham’s equalizer before halftime but also played a key role in driving the team forward throughout the second half.
Kulusevski’s blend of technical ability, vision, and relentless energy makes him an indispensable part of Ange Postecoglou’s squad. The winger’s work rate was especially crucial in a game where Spurs needed more “running power” in midfield, as Postecoglou explained post-match. Kulusevski’s influence was felt on both sides of the ball, as he helped Spurs dominate their London rivals in the second half. His ability to balance defensive duties with creative attacking play has made him one of the league’s most versatile wingers.
1. Curtis Jones (Liverpool)
Topping the list is Liverpool’s Curtis Jones, who was instrumental in the Reds’ 1-0 victory over Chelsea. Jones not only scored the match-winning goal, but his overall performance showcased his development into a complete midfielder.
Jones was involved at both ends of the pitch, earning two penalties in quick succession—though one was overturned by VAR—and showing great composure to convert one of them for the game’s only goal. Beyond his offensive contributions, Jones excelled in his defensive responsibilities, effectively nullifying Chelsea’s creative force, Cole Palmer. Palmer, who had been a key player for Chelsea in recent games, was kept quiet throughout the match, thanks to Jones’ tireless pressing and intelligent positioning.
Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp praised Jones’ efforts, highlighting his ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball. With performances like this, Jones is showing that he has what it takes to become a crucial part of Liverpool’s midfield for years to come.
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