Team of the Week: Van der Vaart fires Tottenham to victory

04 October 2010 13:26
Football.co.uk's Joe Strange reviews the weekend's Premier League action to pick his best XI.

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Goalkeeper - Petr Cech, Chelsea

Although he wasn't tested nearly enough by Arsenal yesterday at Stamford Bridge, Cech stood up to the challenge he did face with aplomb. A stunning fingertip save from Andrey Arshavin's goal-bound strike helped keep the Blues on level terms.

Right-back - Stephen Crainey, Blackpool

Blackpool continued to defy their critics with a stirring 2-1 over Liverpool at Anfield. Crainey played an integral role throught the game, getting forward to join his side's attacks while remaining responsible at the back.

Central defence - Alex, Chelsea

Now John Terry's regular partner at the heart of the Chelsea defence, Alex looks to be relishing his opportunity. The Brazilian dealt comfortably with Marouane Chamakh throughout the 90 minutes before smashing home an unstoppable long-range free-kick to put his side 2-0 up.

Central defence - Titus Bramble, Sunderland

The much-maligned defender makes my team of the week once again, after another strong display against one of the league's title challengers. Bramble coped admirably with Manchester United's striking talent of Federico Macheda, Dimitar Berbatov and Javier Hernandez.

Left-back - Leighton Baines, Everton

Having played consistently well all season, Baines was finally rewarded with three points as Everton notched a 2-0 over Birmingham City. His pace and trickery was on full display as he made up for Steven Pienaar's absence down the left, assisting Tim Cahill's late header.

Right-midfield - Adam Johnson, Manchester City

Super sub Johnson provided the perfect cameo yesterday afternoon as he came on to score Manchester City's winning goal in their 2-1 win over Newcastle. The England man's dazzling run and powerful strike should make him a starter in City's next game.

Central-midfield - Rafael van der Vaart, Tottenham Hotspur

Van der Vaart has been in sensational form since joining Spurs for £8 million this summer, contributing both goals and assists for his new team. On Saturday he chipped in with an impressive brace to secure a 2-1 comeback win over Aston Villa.

Central-midfield - Ramires, Chelsea

Much criticised after Chelsea's defeat at Eastlands last week, Ramires fought back with a solid display in the win over Arsenal. Strong in the tackle and full of energy, the Brazilian looks like a perfect match to the Premier League.

Left-midfield - Jordi Gomez, Wigan Athletic

After somehow walking away from a horror tackle by Wolves midfielder Karl Henry, Gomez got his revenge by helping Wigan to a much-needed three points. The Spanish midfielder scored a superb free-kick to put the gloss on an acomplished all-round display.

Striker - Didier Drogba, Chelsea

Drogba loves playing against Arsenal, and Sunday was no different as he bagged the winning goal for Carlo Ancelotti's side. The big striker was involved in most of Chelsea's attacks and took his chance in expert fashion.

Striker - Luke Varney, Blackpool

Despite being on loan from Championship side Derby, Varney has adapted to the Premier League with ease. The pacey striker continually caused Liverpool problems, eventually scoring his side's second goal to secure a famous victory.

Source: DSG