A look at how the EPL clubs have done so far as Utd & Blues 'must do better'

The second international break provides an opportunity to assess clubs after eight matches of the Premier League campaign.

Here the PA news agency takes a look at who is top of the class and who has to pick up the slack.

How does that look, @SpursOfficial fans? pic.twitter.com/r2bgB4jqq0

— Premier League (@premierleague) October 9, 2023

Tottenham – It is safe to say Spurs are exceeding expectations quite considerably so far. Showing no adverse effects from the sale of Harry Kane, new manager Ange Postecoglou has got them playing in a way which maximises the squad’s combined strengths and they have yet to taste defeat.

Arsenal – A first league win over City in eight years was just the confidence boost the Gunners needed as they edged ahead of their title rivals in the table. And as the only other unbeaten side it looks like they are starting to build momentum for a sustained second stab at City.

Liverpool – There are still creases to iron out but the overhaul of their entire midfield has settled in quicker than expected and they seem to have rediscovered their resilience. They look much more of a threat going forward again but defensive lapses still a minor issue.

Aston Villa – Villa’s two defeats have come at Newcastle and Liverpool and while a 6-1 thumping of Brighton showed their potential when everything clicks consistency will be the key for their season.

Manchester City – City get a category all of their own due to the exacting high standards they have set themselves. Defeat in a tight game at Arsenal was not beyond the realms of the imagination but losing at struggling Wolves, who had won just one of five matches at the time, was not in the script for a side of Pep Guardiola’s strength and quality.

"We have to focus on two