Premier League

Spurs slot behind Gelhardt, West Ham in winners and losers, with Burnley and Everton slumping

Spurs slot behind Gelhardt, West Ham in winners and losers, with Burnley and Everton slumping

The relegation race has taken yet another turn, Spurs are motoring, Man City overcame their own defence and someone should sign Teemu Pukki.

 

Joe Gelhardt
Two goals, two assists and two penalties won by Joe Gelhardt have come in 661 drip-fed minutes and directly contributed to four points for Leeds in his first Premier League season. His has been an invaluable if infrequent contribution, without which the race might already be run.

The forward has only been qualified to drive for just over three years but Gelhardt is already well-versed in finding the clutch. Stunning footwork won a penalty to salvage a draw against Wolves in October; a gorgeous cross coaxed a headed goal from Daniel James against Burnley in January; his aerial ability and determination helped him create and score the winner against Norwich in March; a presence of mind and level of improvisation belying his years and experience level forged the equaliser against Brighton on Sunday. Those crucial interventions from Gelhardt came in the fourth, second, fourth and second minutes of stoppage time respectively. The 20-year-old has scored, assisted and won each of his penalties in the 75th minute or later. Tired defenders must dread the sight of a confident, unburdened, strong and skilful striker bearing down on them with results in the balance.

The next stage is for managers to trust Gelhardt more. His four Premier League starts have been spread equally across the reigns of Marcelo Bielsa and Jesse Marsch. This was only the second time he had completed the full 90 minutes. And for the first time in his senior career, the forward has made appearances in five consecutive games. Gelhardt should be a more regular feature in whichever division Leeds end up next season; his brilliance while on a strict diet of opportunities means it could yet be in the top flight.

 

West Ham
For the first time in their history, West Ham have qualified for European competition through league position in consecutive…

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