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In Focus: The Premier League stars who lit up Matchday 28
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Matthew Storey
LiveScore
Kevin De Bruyne scored twice as Manchester City beat Manchester United
Kevin De Bruyne scored twice as Manchester City beat Manchester United

Premier League leaders Manchester City thrashed Manchester United, Arsenal’s young Gunners proved the difference against Watford and Aston Villa thumped Southampton on Matchday 28. 

There were plenty of standout performances in all three of those games, as well as the other six matches played.

With Everton's trip to Tottenham still to come tonight, we look back at the weekend to pick out the stars. 

Philippe Coutinho

Facing in-form Southampton, the Villans cruised to an unexpected 4-0 win thanks to an inspired display from Philippe Coutinho.

The Brazilian, on loan at Villa Park from Barcelona, scored one, set one up and created two big chances on Saturday.

Boss Steven Gerrard would love to sign Coutinho, 29, permanently but more performances like this and Villa will not be the only suitors.

Gerrard said: "We've got Phil back fit and in a really good place — he was back to his Liverpool form and was a touch above. The other players have got a lift from him.

"When Phil is in the mood he is a world-class player. He probably finished my career a couple of years early, he's the reason I've got screws in my knees and groin!"

Philippe Coutinho was Aston Villa's star man against Southampton
Philippe Coutinho was Aston Villa's star man against Southampton

Ivan Toney

Plenty of plaudits went Christian Eriksen’s way after Brentford’s 3-1 win at Norwich — but it was Ivan Toney who made the biggest difference.

Toney’s first Premier League hat-trick was the Bees' first top-flight treble since 1937 and came in arguably their biggest game of the season so far.

On a run of seven defeats in eight games, Thomas Frank’s side desperately needed victory at Carrow Road to pull away from the drop zone.

And Toney, 25, twice stepped up to net from the spot to complete his hat-trick after opening the scoring in the first half.

He has converted all 16 penalties he has taken for Brentford — it is no wonder Frank labelled him the best spot-kick taker in the world.

Ryan Fraser

It has been an incredible few weeks for Newcastle and Ryan Fraser played a key role as Eddie Howe's men picked up their fifth win in six games.

The Magpies are now seven points clear of the bottom three thanks to their 2-1 victory over Brighton, which saw Fraser score the first and set up the second.

On the back of a nomination for the Premier League Player of the Month for February, the 28-year-old Scot is thriving again under ex-Bournemouth boss Howe.

Fraser said: "It’s been unbelievable. There was a lot of talk when I left Bournemouth but we’ve always kept a really good relationship. The type of manager and person he is — he’s come in and changed everything.

"Honestly, I could keep you here for days to tell you what he’s changed and it’s been absolutely brilliant. The lads have taken to it and not looked back."

Bukayo Saka

Bukayo Saka was a constant thorn in Watford's side for Arsenal
Bukayo Saka was a constant thorn in Watford's side for Arsenal

On commentary, ex-Arsenal striker Alan Smith said: "The best players make the game look easy and Bukayo Saka has done that today. He's been absolutely superb. What a talent."

During the Gunners' entertaining 3-2 win at Vicarage Road, it was the England international who shone the brightest.

Still only 20, Saka set up Martin Odegaard’s opener before his wonderful finish restored the lead.

He has now scored eight goals and set up five this term — more than any player aged under 21 in the Premier League.

Echoing Smith's comments, former Liverpool and Tottenham midfielder Jamie Redknapp added: "Saka was the outstanding player on show. Everything about his game was class."

Kevin De Bruyne

For all of Kevin De Bruyne’s success at Manchester City, he has not always shone against neighbours United.

Prior to yesterday’s 4-1 demolition job, he had scored only once and had no assists in 10 games against the Red Devils.

But two strikes and an assist quickly put that right as he orchestrated another memorable derby win at the Etihad.

He completed 38 of his 41 passes and had 64 touches, including six in United’s box. That led to creating five chances and having six shots, of which four were on target.

The Belgian sensation, 30, has now been involved in 89 goals (37 goals and 52 assists) in just 100 home league appearances for City.

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Premier LeagueManchester CityAston VillaBrentfordArsenalNewcastle United
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