There are a some surprising names in the Premier League’s Best XI for Week 1, though few will be shocked to see Manchester United, Manchester City, and Chelsea are well-represented in the round’s standouts, especially in attack.
Their highlights are above, but here’s why these 11 men made this season’s first Team of the Week:
G: Asmir Begovic, Stoke City - His team didn’t win at Anfield, but he was named Man of the Match, with his save on Steven Gerrard’s direct kick was among the week’s stop five stops.
D: Seamus Coleman, Everton - Scored the Toffees’ second goal as Everton took a point from Carrow Road on Saturday.
D: Brede Hangeland, Fulham - Was key to Fulham preserving their one-goal lead, the Cottagers overcoming the Black Cats’ control, taking full points and a clean sheet from the Stadium of Light.
D: Luke Shaw, Southampton - The young left back was part of a back four that kept a clean sheet at The Hawthorns. He also drew the penalty that resulted in Ricky Lambert’s winner.
M: Gabriel Agbonlahor, Aston Villa - Man of the Match at the Emirates on Saturday, Agbonlahor drew the two penalties that sent Villa on their way to their upset.
M: Ross Barkley, Everton - The goal of the week winner scored the Toffees’ opener at Norwich City.
M: Mohamed Diame, West Ham United - Controlled the midfield for the Hammers as Sam Allardyce’s team cruised to a 2-0 win over Cardiff City.
M: Oscar, Chelsea - Scored Chelsea’s opener and was key to numerous early threats while Chelsea played off Fernando Torres, leaving Hull City’s defense in tatters.
F: Edin Dezko, Manchester City - Though he only got an assist on one, played an important part in each of City’s first two goals. Was denied a goal of his own by a spectacular Tim Krul save early in Monday’s second half.
F: Robin van Persie, Manchester United - Scored twice as the Red Devils won 4-1 in Wales. An overhead kick opened the Dutch international’s account, while a blast from outside the area completed his double.
F: Danny Welbeck, Manchester United - Welbeck also posted two goals, including a beautiful, late lob of Michel Vorm that made the league’s top five goals. The England international was also named the Player of the Week.
