Three Premier League Players with A Point to Prove This Season

Dele Alli

The Englishmen took the league by storm as he contributed to 40 goals before turning 21, the same as Lampard, Gerrard and Beckham combined. Since, injuries have hampered him which was highlighted by his five goals and three assists in 25 appearances during 2018/19. His mini revival under Mourinho saw him contribute to 12 in 25.

However, he is averaging less shots and passes than at any time in his career whilst creating less chances for his teammates, only 0.9 per 90, half of his average in 2017/18. His Portuguese boss has even called him lazy and the Spurs fans are losing patience with the former wonderkid. If he doesn’t step it up this season, Tottenham will look to cut their losses.

Takumi Minamino

The Japanese star joined Liverpool after the Reds activated his £7.25 million release clause last January. He made 14 Premier League appearances last season and contributed to zero goals and assists, a huge drop off from his 108 from 199 games for Salzburg. He is only creating 0.4 chances a game, less than 34-year-old James Milner.

The 25-year-old will have to push on this season, or the Reds may look to move him on in the summer. He came off the bench to score the equaliser against Arsenal in the community Shield final, his first goal for the club, Liverpool fans will hope this is a sign of things to come this season from Minamino.

Dan James

At only 22, this may be a little harsh on the Welsh winger. When he joined after only making 33 appearances for the Swans, no one expected him to be a regular starter however, due to injuries and a lack of signings, James started 18 of Man United’s first 20 Premier League games. In those games he supplied an impressive nine goal involvements.

2020 has been different. James is yet to score or assist this calendar year which has seen the former Shrewsbury loanee lose his place in the starting line-up to Greenwood. James’ pace has meant he’s been able to show how lethal he can be in a counter attacking side but has struggled against low blocks. The fans’ perspective of him is that he’s an energetic winger with no end product, like a young Zaha, and especially if Sancho is signed, James’ chances will be limited meaning he will have to make the most of them.