Unexpected Standouts: Premier League’s Top Surprise Performers of the 2020-21 Start
The 2020-21 Premier League season has dazzled fans with its unpredictability, as multiple teams have enjoyed spells at the top of the table. Unheralded sides such as Leicester City, Southampton, Everton, Aston Villa, and Tottenham Hotspur have all claimed the spotlight at various points, defying preseason expectations. Yet, much of this collective success is rooted in the exceptional form of players whose strong starts have gone largely unnoticed. Here, we highlight eleven standout individuals whose impressive displays have defined the campaign’s early weeks, rounding up the Premier League’s most surprising XI so far.
Goalkeeper: Karl Darlow’s Comeback at Newcastle United
Once relegated to the bench following Martin Dubravka’s arrival at Newcastle United, Karl Darlow was given an unexpected lifeline when Dubravka suffered a heel injury over the summer. Thrust back into the starting lineup, Darlow has been instrumental in securing 11 points for the Magpies. While he has not recorded a clean sheet since opening day, he leads the league with 39 saves and has a remarkable average of three saves per goal conceded, with only 13 goals allowed. His shot-stopping prowess has sparred Newcastle from slipping down the table and raised serious competition for the starting spot, making Dubravka’s return anything but straightforward.
Right Back: Matty Cash’s Seamless Transition to Aston Villa
Stepping up from Championship side Nottingham Forest, Matty Cash has been quick to adapt to the Premier League’s demands. The 23-year-old right back has excelled in Villa’s defensive setup, topping the combined charts for tackles and interceptions across the league. His calmness in one-on-one duels has added composure to Villa’s back line, contributing to four clean sheets in eight matches. More than his numbers, Cash’s consistent performances have cemented him as a key figure in Villa’s rapid ascent.
Centre Back: Wesley Fofana Shines for Leicester City
Despite the strong partnership of Jonny Evans and Caglar Soyuncu the previous season, Leicester invested heavily in 19-year-old Wesley Fofana. Initially seen as a gamble, the signing has paid off handsomely. With Soyuncu sidelined, Fofana has slotted seamlessly into the Foxes’ defense—particularly when deployed in a back-three formation. Averaging three interceptions per match, he demonstrates tactical intelligence, composure on the ball, and versatility. Fofana’s performances have been so influential that his manager may opt to retain a back-three formation even after all defenders return to fitness.
Centre Back: Max Kilman Becomes a Mainstay at Wolves
At just 23 years old, Max Kilman has stepped up to become a reliable part of Wolves’ defense under Nuno Espírito Santo. Having played five Premier League matches, he’s helped the team secure three clean sheets while contributing directly to an organized and resilient back line. His composure in possession, precise passing, and disciplined defensive work have propelled him into a regular starting role, intensifying the competition for spots alongside established names like Willy Boly and Conor Coady.
Left Back: Tyrick Mitchell Emerges at Crystal Palace
Filling the boots of the seasoned Patrick Van Aanholt is no small feat, but Tyrick Mitchell has seized his opportunity at Crystal Palace. Before suffering a minor injury, the 21-year-old left back averaged four tackles per game, the second highest in the Premier League at the time. While more defensively cautious than his predecessor, Mitchell’s reliability and positional sense signal a bright future, giving Palace a compelling option at fullback.
Right Wing/Right Wing-Back: Tariq Lamptey’s Breakthrough at Brighton
Tariq Lamptey, released by Chelsea, has quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s most electrifying fullbacks at Brighton. Operating primarily as a right wing-back in Graham Potter’s system, Lamptey’s pace and attacking intent have caused constant problems for defenders. Drawing 2.5 fouls per game, he is a driving force on both sides of the ball—productive in both a back-four and back-five setup. His early performances hint at the potential for moves to Europe’s elite in the near future.
Defensive Midfield: Mohamed Elneny’s Revival at Arsenal
Reintroduced to regular league action by Mikel Arteta after a spell on the sidelines, Mohamed Elneny has emerged as a pivotal figure in Arsenal’s midfield. Boasting a leading 94% pass completion rate in the Premier League, he anchors the Gunners’ pressing game while providing stability and sound defensive coverage. Though not known for his creativity in attack, Elneny’s tactical discipline and energy have made him an ideal midfield partner, reigniting his value to the north London club.
Defensive Midfield: Nampalys Mendy’s Solid Return for Leicester
Tasked with filling in for the injured Wilfred Ndidi, Nampalys Mendy has risen to the challenge for Leicester City. Having made just seven appearances last season, Mendy has started all but 13 minutes of the opening eight games this term, registering a team-high pass accuracy of 91.3%. While his statistical output may not match Ndidi’s in specific metrics, Mendy offers reliable if unspectacular coverage in midfield, allowing creative talents like Youri Tielemans to thrive.
Left Wing: Diogo Jota’s Instant Impact at Liverpool
Liverpool’s acquisition of Diogo Jota from Wolves raised expectations, but few anticipated the scale and speed of his contributions. Not only has he added energy and versatility to the squad, but he’s also been knocking on the door of Jurgen Klopp’s established front three. Capable of playing across multiple attacking roles, Jota’s clinical edge—a return of seven goals in just nine domestic and European matches—has prompted tactical shifts, such as a move to a 4-2-3-1 formation. The 23-year-old looks to be a central figure for Liverpool’s future.
Striker: Patrick Bamford Delivers for Leeds United
Carrying the weight of Leeds United’s promotion hopes, Patrick Bamford has silenced doubts about his top-flight credentials by scoring seven goals in just eight Premier League appearances. His sharp finishing and movement have been critical to Leeds’ attacking style under Marcelo Bielsa, forcing even high-profile arrivals like Rodrigo into alternative roles. Bamford’s output continues to drive Leeds’ ambitions in their first season back in the top tier.
Striker: Ollie Watkins Transforms Aston Villa’s Attack
New recruit Ollie Watkins has rapidly become the focal point of Aston Villa’s forward line. Despite netting five of his six early goals in only two games, the 24-year-old maintains a vital presence for Villa, contributing aerially—only three forwards across the league have won more aerial duels—and linking up effectively with teammates like Jack Grealish and Ross Barkley. Notably, Watkins showcased his talent against established opponents such as Arsenal and Liverpool, underlining his value as Villa’s leading striker.
Manager: Dean Smith’s Aston Villa Revolution
Dean Smith’s guidance has been fundamental in Aston Villa’s remarkable turnarounds since a tough previous season. Initially implementing a 4-3-3 formation before migrating to a 4-2-3-1 after Ross Barkley’s arrival, Smith has demonstrated tactical flexibility and a keen eye for recruitment. Integrating new signings such as Matty Cash, Emiliano Martinez, and Ollie Watkins, Smith has revitalized the squad and guided Villa through a strong start, firmly reestablishing their Premier League presence.
Honourable Mentions: Impactful Substitutes
Several players narrowly missed the starting XI but deserve recognition for their performances off the bench or as rotational options. These include:
- Vladimir Coufal (West Ham United)
- Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal)
- James Justin (Leicester City)
- Jairo Riedewald (Crystal Palace)
- Daniel Podence (Wolves)
- Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace)
- Che Adams (Southampton)
Conclusion: The Premier League’s Emerging Talents of 2020-21
The early months of the 2020-21 Premier League campaign have provided a platform for fresh faces and unheralded talents to shine. From dependable defenders to revitalized midfielders and electric new forwards, these surprise performers have enriched a season already filled with unpredictability and excitement. Their influence not only boosts the fortunes of their own clubs but also adds competitive intrigue to the league’s unfolding story.
Who else has impressed you? Share your thoughts on this season’s surprise packages and join the conversation on social media!
