Collymore's Premier League 5-Point Stance: On Gerrard, Mata, Arsenal and More
As we approach another huge weekend of Premier League action, here are five big issues we need to address in relation to some of the biggest clubs in England.
They include what Liverpool should do with Steven Gerrard, Juan Mata's future at Manchester United and why Arsenal need to stick on a formula and keep the faith.
Everton's Most Important Season
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This is potentially Everton's most important season in the club's history.
This campaign will define whether they break into the Champions League elite or continue to serve their purpose as a feeder club.
Everton have spent big money on new contracts for Ross Barkley, Gareth Barry and others. The reason they've done it is because chairman Bill Kenwright believes they can break into the top four and reach the Champions League.
If they fail, we're talking about a big exodus. Seamus Coleman and Barkley could be among those to leave, and then Everton will be back where they started.
Mata's End Is Nigh at Manchester United
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I've been speaking to a number of agents around Europe, and it's pretty clear to me Juan Mata will be offered in part-exchange for Roma's Kevin Strootman in the January window.
Manchester United need more legs in midfield. Jose Mourinho offloaded Mata from Chelsea because he couldn't add to the team effort, defensively at least. Louis van Gaal feels the same way.
Mata is being put in the shop window by United. He'll be gone as soon as the right opportunity presents itself. It could be the Strootman deal.
Arsenal Need to Put Faith in Their Midfield
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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger must land on his preferred starting XI and stick with it. Partnerships are key, with players in their natural positions.
In midfield, he should go with the British pairing of Jack Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey at the base. I'd use Theo Walcott on the right, Alexis Sanchez on the left and Mesut Ozil in the No. 10 role.
That gives them balance and blend, and it sets things up for the next couple of seasons. It's time for Wenger to get things settled and set Arsenal up for success finally.
Gerrard Can't Play Every Game for Liverpool
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Steven Gerrard brings Liverpool huge experience, and we certainly shouldn't be writing him off, but something needs to change.
Gerrard has another productive season in him, but with another year on the clock, he's only capable of playing two or three big games a month.
That means Jordan Henderson, Joe Allen, Lucas Leiva and Co. need to step up in Gerrard's absence and move things forward for Liverpool.
I also wonder if Brendan Rodgers might go for a central three in defence. He might be better served that way, with full-backs that bomb on.
Lampard Still Has Much to Offer
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I'm not a fan of our Premier League marquee players taking the path of Frank Lampard—being taken by an overseas club and then loaned back to England.
Lampard has already shown he has much to offer in the Premier League. Rather than going to New York City FC, why not stay at Manchester City or lend his experience to other clubs in England?
Lampard would bring huge value to a club like Southampton next season. It would be great to get players like him staying around to offer their insight at a club that could truly benefit from it.
Your thoughts are welcome in the comments below as ever or on Twitter.
