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The latest batch of English action provided a wealth of drama, unexpected scores, and interesting subplots. From battles between bosses to individual brilliance, here are the primary discussions emerging from the matches.

Calum McFarlane Stands Firm Against Guardiola

Calum McFarlane's unexpected duel with Pep Guardiola recalled memories of past David vs Goliath coaching battles. For McFarlane, embarking on his first-team coaching bow, the challenge was halting Chelsea's astonishingly bad run of form when playing the champions. A last-gasp strike from the Chelsea star snatched a valuable result, a feat former managers had failed to achieve.

The Reds' Struggle to Close Games Out

Even with their big-money signing finding the net, the Merseyside club ended up disappointed after surrendering a lead evaporate versus Fulham. The problem of not managing to control matches when ahead persists, with the side almost letting slip comparable leads in previous weeks. Until Slot's men learn the skill of killing off matches, the season is likely to stay a frustrating affair.

3. Rice Supports Gyökeres to Find Form

Arsenal's striker is going through a lengthy run without scoring from general play, but his fellow star the Gunners lynchpin is adamant the number nine is nonetheless vitally important. Rice praised the striker's work off the ball and team-oriented contributions as integral to Mikel Arteta's side form. "The goals are sure to arrive," was his confident message for his misfiring teammate.

4. Amorim Must Get Benjamin Sesko to Sharpen Up

Given Manchester United lining up in a notably defensive fashion, the onus rested with the forward duo to deliver. Whereas Matheus Cunha persisted with his fine performances, Benjamin Sesko suffered another forgettable afternoon. The young striker has found goals scarce since his major switch and spurned a excellent opportunity to win the game. The new year offers a clear requirement for the striker to discover his form.

The Sunderland Star Leaves Spurs in a State of Confusion

The Sunderland manager deployed Enzo Le Fée in a unfamiliar position to start, before unleashing him up the pitch as the match developed. The decision was a masterstroke, with Le Fée turning into the main instigator of the visitor's push for an equalizing goal. Following hitting the post, he supplied a exquisite assist for the all-important goal. Having fully adapted to the demands of the top flight, his impact is on the rise.

The West Ham Manager Wastes Opportunity to Introduce New Signing

In a dismal defeat for the Hammers, head coach Nuno Espírito Santo opted not to introduce any of his named replacements. This included recent acquisition Pablo Felipe, who stayed on the bench even with his team's chronic failure to score. The manager suggested it would have been "unfair" to introduce the fresh striker into the match. Yet, with goals at a dearth, the urgency to integrate the new boy as soon as possible is painfully obvious.

7. Miley Delivers Another Huge Case

The teenage sensation produced yet another exceptional showing whilst operating out of position. He was impeccable in defence, created the breakthrough, and lifted the team in a untidy encounter. With first-choice defenders available, the question for boss Eddie Howe is if to accommodate the remarkably talented youngster in his best central midfield berth. "Coming Newcastle line-ups will certainly be constructed with him," seems an a accurate assessment.

Could the Sean Dyche Impact Fading at Forest?

The manager's initial influence at Nottingham Forest was notable, but questions are now surface about the squad's plan B. Their transition threat remains, but appears less potent in the absence of previous personnel. Although well-organised when protecting a lead, they can struggle when needing to open up. Giving the ball away in those moments has proven punishing, a problem they must solve rapidly.

9. Thiago's Goal Rush Halts The Bees' Travel Woes

Brentford produced a performance that contradicted their poor travel sickness. Key to their impressive victory was the red-hot scoring of number nine Igor Thiago. The striker's goals are offering a platform for the team to build on. Winger he even suggested the ambitious target of a top-seven finish as a target, highlighting the growing optimism within the team.

The Clarets