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Seven things we learnt from the Premier League this weekend: Liverpool have problems; not all Arsenal fans want Arsene Wenger out

A look at the key lessons from the top flight, including the risks of calling it too early and Jose Mourinho's shameful take on diving

Simon Rice
Monday 15 December 2014 12:05 GMT
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A downbeat Brendan Rodgers looks on as his side slip to defeat
A downbeat Brendan Rodgers looks on as his side slip to defeat

Liverpool have problems at both ends

The impact of Luis Suarez has been well documented and Liverpool's problems in front of goal were clear for all to see at Old Trafford, even with David De Gea playing arguably the best game of his career. However a more long-standing issue, that of the defence, continues to be a real problem. Brendan Rodgers knew it needed sorting yet despite the arrival of Dejan Lovren over the summer the Reds continue to look vulnerable.

Don't call it too early

Just a few weeks ago Manchester United were going to struggle to make the top four and Southampton seemed guaranteed a place in next year's Champions League. A run of six wins has put Louis van Gaal's side in reach of the top and back in the title race. Meanwhile, the Saints have now lost four in a row and are out of the top four.

David De Gea stops what he wants - and could move where he wants too

De Gea was sensational against Liverpool, making a string of top class saves that prove he is amongst the top goalkeepers in the world. With his contract quickly running down and Real Madrid reportedly sniffing around, United will rightly become increasingly concerned about the Spaniard's future.

Burnley could surprise everyone yet

Southampton's three defeats before the weekend came against Manchester City, Arsenal and Manchester United - all understandable losses. The most recent was against lowly Burnley and will have been a shock to Ronald Koeman after such a strong start to the campaign. But perhaps it says more about Burnley who despite having been written off, have picked up three wins and two draws from their last six matches. The clean sheet at the weekend will have been particularly pleasing for Sean Dyche who has seen his defence tighten up as the season has progressed.

Jose Fonte watches on as Ashley Barnes scores the only goal of the game

Don't expect any help from managers when it comes to diving

Jose Mourinho claimed his players did nothing wrong in the aftermath of Chelsea's win against Hull. For such an influential manager to conduct himself in such a way was shameful. Willian and Diego Costa were booked for diving whilst Gary Cahill also tumbled over nothing but managed to escape what would have been a second yellow. Simulation is a scourge on the beautiful game and for it to stop leadership from within clubs is needed. Mourinho just set that particular battle way back.

Tottenham like leaving it late

Spurs gains three points against Swansea thanks to a late goal from Christian Eriksen. The Dane did the same thing against Hull last month and Spurs have in general found late goals this season. The points gained have been crucial and despite talk of Mauricio Pochettino being under pressure, Spurs are now just four points from the top four.

Giroud struck twice for Arsenal

Not all Arsenal fans want Arsene Wenger out

After disgraceful scenes after the recent defeat to Stoke in which a group of Arsenal fans abused Arsene Wenger as the Gunners travelled back to London, there was a real show show of support this weekend with many singing the Frenchman's name after the final whistle at the Emirates. It comes after two 4-1 victories, the first against Galatasaray and the second against Newcastle. Amazing what a couple of convincing wins can do.

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