This article is part of our Ball Watching series.
Villa Attacking Options Peaking at the Wrong Time
The long-struggling Christian Benteke recovered from his hip injury to bag a brace against Sunderland, adding to strike partner Gabriel Agbonlahor's brace. The Villains have continued their improved performances under new manager Tim Sherwood, with midfielders Scott Sinclair (three goals in last five appearances) and Charles N'Zogbia (two assists in last two appearances) providing the spark from the middle of the park. Unfortunately, Villa are coming up against a tough run of fixtures that include Manchester United, Manchester City, Southampton, Tottenham and West Ham in their next seven.
Get Familiar with Boaz Myhill
Due to Ben Foster's knee injury, the backup West Brom goalkeeper may get a run of starts in a Tony Pulis-led system. While the next matchup against Manchester City maybe unappetizing, those in season-long leagues may want to consider West Brom's following opponents of QPR and Leicester. Especially as the season winds down, finding value anywhere is always a good thing. Those in daily leagues, skip Myhill (or Foster if the knee injury isn't serious) this week and check back next week for a cheap GK option.
Common Sense Prevailing in Manchester
For weeks, many pundits were questioning Louis van Gaal's decision to push Wayne Rooney further back into the midfield despite his less-than-satisfactory performances at the position. With Falcao clearly in the doghouse and Robin van Persie nursing an ankle injury, Rooney has been pushed up to the front of the attack and has scored in each of the last three gameweeks. Furthermore, midfielder Marouane Fellaini has been placed in the No. 10 role behind Rooney -- the same position the big Belgian excelled at while playing for Everton.
Newcastle Vulnerable at Both Ends
Last week, Newcastle lost Papiss Cisse for seven games. This week, they lose captain and defensive leader Fabricio Coloccini for three games following his straight red card against Everton. The Toon Army are now without their leader up front and their leader at the back. Consider all of Newcastle's opposition in the next three games (Arsenal, Sunderland, and Liverpool) must-starts.
