We have seen some superb performances already in the Premier League 2020/21 season and a lot of them have come from players who are enjoying their maiden season in top-flight English football. Having said that, let's take a look at three newcomers who have impressed with their performances in this season thus far.
James Rodriguez (Everton)
The former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich midfielder has taken the Premier League by storm. His performances have had a massive impact on Everton's fortunes so far. The club is currently placed at the top of the Premier League table with four wins in as many matches and Rodriguez's three goals and two assists have played a big role in all those victories. Everton lacked a creative force in their midfield last season and that's why they failed to put pressure on the opposition even though their forwards, Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, were in excellent form. Rodriguez's arrival has solved that problem for them and has made Everton's attack more dangerous than ever.
Timothy Castagne (Leicester City)
The 24-year-old Belgian fullback arrived at Leicester City on a five-year deal from Atalanta and he made a terrific start to his Premier League career as he scored on his debut match against West Bromwich Albion. Castagne didn't stop there as he went on to deliver two assists in the following games against Burnley and Manchester City as well. The departure of Ben Chilwell to Chelsea had left a big void in Leicester City's defence, but Castagne looks like a perfect like-for-like replacement for Chilwell as he is not only a good defender but an equally good offensive player as well.
Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
The 24-year-old forward arrived at Aston Villa on a five-year contract from Brentford for a club-record transfer fee of £28 million, which could rise to £33 million. While staying at Brentford, Watkins scored 26 times in a total of 50 appearances. Not only that, he scored on his debut match for Aston Villa too, which was against Burton Albion in the EFL Cup. As far as the Premier League is considered, Watkins blanked in his first two matches against Sheffield United and Fulham but his moment of fame came when he scored a hattrick in a memorable 7-2 victory over the defending champions Liverpool, in only his third Premier League match. Watkins showed tremendous pace and superb skills, thus proving himself a menace to handle for the Liverpool defenders.
Feature image courtesy: AFP / Peter Powell
