Premier League new boys making some waves

In these still early stages of the season a few new additions to the Premier League have looked like excellent additions to the league and indeed their respective clubs. The English game may have lost the massive talent of Cristiano Ronaldo but the following players have already made an impression on the Premier League.

Thomas Vermaelen, Arsenal

When Arsenal sold Kolo Toure to Manchester City a few eyebrows were raised. Will their defence be good enough for a team with ambitions of winning the league? Is this Vermalen guy good enough for the Premier League? Etc. Those questions have been answered and then some by the former Ajax man’s performances so far.

Not only does he look accomplished and composed in defence but he also has a cracking shot on him. I’ve got to admit, centre-halves who can bang in a wonder goal are always good in my eyes, Vermalen has hit his fair share of smashers already this season and has already found the net five times. He cost under £12million and has stepped into Toure’s shoes with ease. Another success in the transfer market for Mr Arsene Wenger methinks.

Lee Chung-Yong, Bolton Wanderers

I knew absolutely nothing about Lee when he joined Bolton in a £2.2million deal. Bolton boss Gary Megson must have been aware of the need for a player who can run at defenders and cause problems for the opposition defence and that is exactly what Lee can do. He has an excellent turn of pace, some quick and nimble feet and a fantastic work rate.

The South Korean winger picked up a man of the match award in Bolton’s draw against Spurs and has put in some classy displays. He has already scored some great goals for Bolton and will surely score more in his time in Lancashire. His first touch is impressive and he shows great intelligence with his link up play. I’m going to suggest that Megson has picked up a real bargain in the shape of 21-year-old Lee.

Christian Benitez, Birmingham

Ecuadorian Benitez, or ‘Chucho’, cost the Blues £6million – a fee many considered a risk considering he had only previously played in his home country and Mexico. However, Chucho has quickly established himself as a favourite with the fans at St Andrews’ with his turn of pace and tenacity. He has already shown his willingness to work hard by playing with a bandaged head against Hull after taking a considerable smack to the head and should start to get amongst the goals soon. His time at Birmingham has been interrupted by trips back to his homeland but once he gets a regular run in the side he will surely show his true quality.

And we’re still waiting on….

Manchester United’s Gabriel Obertan looked lively in Carling Cup action against Barnsley. An injury had kept him out until that point but judging from his display against the Tykes I’m sure he’ll challenge the likes of Nani for a place in United’s starting eleven.

Liverpool forked out a decent sum, £20million, for Alberto Aquilani. The former Roma man has an excellent array of passing and is a master from a dead ball situation. He is close to full fitness so we should get to see the Italian playmaker in action fairly soon.

Written by Gareth Freeman, a sports writer promoting Irish racing betting tips and picks for Betfair.

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