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A Pulse Sports XI of the most outstanding players in the Premier League from game week 28.
Arsenal continued their march towards a first league title since 2004 with a 4-1 win over Crystal Palace. That win extended their advantage at the top of the table to 8 points over Manchester City who were in FA Cup action.
Aston Villa continued their rapid improvement under Unai Emery with a 3-0 victory over relegation-threatened Bournemouth.
Down at the bottom, Everton and Southampton scored stoppage-time equalisers to avoid defeat as the relegation battle continues.
Goalkeeper: Emi Martinez (Aston Villa) vs Bournemouth
Emi Martinez provided the Weekend’s most assured goalkeeping performance
His distribution was superb as he spread confidence through his backline and made a stunning save from Philip Billing’s freekick.
Right back: Ben White (Arsenal) vs Crystal Palace
White has thrived at full back this season, showing excellent positioning and intelligence to support attacks.
He was also crucial in containing Wilfried Zaha and once again outlined his importance to Mikel Arteta this season.
Centre back: Harry Souttar (Leicester City) vs Brentford
Harry Souttar has turned out to be an excellent addition to the Leicester City backline. He was brilliant during the club’s 1-1 draw at Brentford, dominating in the air and also effective on the ground, winning a game-leading 10 duels.
Centre back: Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa) vs Bournemouth
This was yet another impressive defensive performance from Tyrone Mings. He won each of his five duels in a commanding performance and made one vital sliding challenge on Dominic Solanke to keep the game at 1-0.
Left back: Luke Ayling (Leeds United) vs Wolves
Leeds were desperate for a positive result as the threat of relegation loomed large and Ayling was a huge reason for them securing a hugely satisfying 4-2 win.
He was tireless in his running and assured in possession and capped a brilliant performance with a fine headed goal.
Midfield: Jacob Ramsey (Aston Villa) vs Bournemouth
Ramsey produced an efficient and composed performance as Aston Villa continued their improvement under Unai Emery with a 3-0 win over Bournemouth.
His bursts forward caused problems for the Cherries and he was rewarded for his endeavour with a fine finish for Villa’s second goal.
Midfield: Granit Xhaka (Arsenal) vs Crystal Palace
Xhaka was once again at his best during Arsenal’s 4-1 win over Crystal Palace. He put in a dynamic performance that saw Mikel Arteta’s men dominate the midfield in fine fashion.
Xhaka’s well-taken goal was the latest highlight in what has been a remarkable season for the Switzerland international.
Midfield: Abdoulaye Doucoure (Everton) vs Chelsea
Everton earned a hugely important point against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and a lot of it was down to sheer hardwork and running.
Doucoure epitomizes hardwork and his work-rate unsettled the home side. He was really the star of the show for Everton, heading home the first from close range before providing the assist for Ellis Simms’ late equaliser.
Forward: Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) vs Crystal Palace
What else can you say about Bukayo Saka? He is in the form of his life at the moment.
Saka scored twice and created another to help Arsenal to a 4-1 win and continue his wonderful individual campaign.
He is now the first player this season to reach 10+ goals and 10+ assists in the Premier League.
Forward: Theo Walcott (Southampton) vs Tottenham
Theo Walcott in 2023, right? Well, he was electrifying against Tottenham, almost rolling back the years.
Walcott scored his first goal for Southampton in almost two years which laid the foundation for Ward-Prowse's stoppage-time penalty to salvage a point for the Saints.
Forward: Alexander Isak (Newcastle) vs Nottingham Forest
Alexander Isak scored a brace as Newcastle overcame a stubborn Forest side at the City ground, including a stoppage time penalty worth its weight in gold.
The Magpies continue to push for a top four finish and if they are to achieve that, Isak will play a major role.
Isak led the game for shots (5), touches in the opposition box (9), sprints (20) and ranked second for dribbles (5) in a complete performance.
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