5 Interesting Stats From Premier League Matchday 1

6. Tottenham's ‰tienne Capoue Makes Impressive Debut Defensive Display

Leading 1-0 through a 50th minute penalty from debutant Roberto Soldado, André Villas-Boas replaced Mousa Dembélé with summer signing ‰tienne Capoue to partner Paulinho in front of the back four. The risk of playing two new signings together in a key area of the field whilst Tottenham were holding onto their 1-0 lead away from home proved successful for the Portuguese coach. On the field for 33 minutes, Capoue made 6 interceptions for Spurs as he broke up potential Crystal Palace attacks. This figure was matched only by Michael Carrick on matchday 1 and the Manchester United midfielder played all 90 minutes of their game. ‰tienne Capoue completed 90% of his 21 pass attempts as well as 2 out of 3 long ball attempts. He made 1 tackle and had 1 wild shot off target. The signing from Toulouse offers Villas-Boas another solid option to play in front of the defence, along with Dembélé, Paulinho and Sandro (when fit). Leaving Scott Parker to join Fulham...