Troy Deeney’s Team of the Week: Martinez, Collins, Rice and Thiago

Matty Cash (Aston Villa): It was excellent. He has been excellent for a few weeks now but represents a massive outlet for Aston Villa. When they dominate the ball, he’s the enforcer on the right side and got a great little assist there as well. He’s the main outlet and he really jumps out of the park when you watch the games.

Malik Thiaw (Newcastle): From November onwards, he was exceptional. He had a tough time in Italy but is performing consistently now. He scored a goal, which always helps any defender in this Team of the Week. The solid performance, that was put in, was more aggressive and I feel like he’s starting to get into his groove now and I feel like he’s the man at Newcastle.

Nathan Collins (Brentford): Goal and assist with one click. I think when they first signed him from Wolves, I didn’t understand it. Now I do. Especially under Keith Andrews. He organizes well and moves the ball powerfully from the back. He is the leader of that team. Forget Jordan Henderson, he is the captain of this team. Obviously goals help at centre-back.

Ben Davies (Tottenham): I don’t think that’s the name I thought I’d come up with but Ben Davies, fair play to him. He played just his third game of the season, and they had Jed Spence on the bench as well – demonstrating the level of professionalism and maturity he continues to display – and score a goal. This shows me that you don’t always have to be 37 and be written off. He is 32 and has already been ruled out and is hoping to feature in the World Cup for Wales. He’s always ready and available, which I really like.