BBC football pundit Troy Deeney has published his selections for the Premier League Team of the Week, identifying a group of players who delivered decisive performances in the latest round of matches. The lineup, released on November 2, 2026, features three players from Arsenal, two from Tottenham Hotspur, and two from Coventry City, reflecting a mix of defensive solidity, midfield control, and attacking flair across the league [1]. Deeney’s choices invite fan engagement, with the article prompting readers to share their own Team of the Week via a comments form, a recurring feature that allows supporters to debate the pundit's picks [1].
In goal, Deeney selected Bart Verbruggen of Brighton, describing the keeper as an "impenetrable wall" who prevented his team from suffering a heavier defeat [1]. Deeney noted that Verbruggen made numerous saves, including a last-ditch stop where the ball struck him in the face, keeping Brighton competitive despite conceding [1]. This selection contrasts with Deeney's previous week's choice, where he also picked Verbruggen for a clean sheet, citing the generally poor quality of goalkeeping in other matches [2]. The recurring selection of Verbruggen across consecutive weeks indicates sustained high performance from the Brighton goalkeeper [1][2].
The defensive line includes a "fully north London back four" consisting of Archie Gray and Jan Paul van Hecke from Tottenham, alongside Ezri Konsa and Jurrien Timber from Arsenal [1]. Deeney praised Gray for scoring and defending well, noting that he is gaining credit as Tottenham's form improves [1]. Van Hecke was recognized for scoring and growing into his role, with Deeney acknowledging that while the player was initially considered overpriced, he has had a solid start [1]. Konsa was described as a "beast" who physically dominated the ball, while Timber was commended for his recovery and defensive work at full-back, despite a shirt pull on Alexander Isak that Deeney felt should have been reviewed by VAR [1].
The midfield is anchored by Romeo Lavia of Chelsea, Declan Rice of Arsenal, and Tatsuhiro Sakamoto of Coventry [1]. Deeney highlighted Lavia as the "only constant" for Chelsea in the 60 minutes before their opponent was reduced to ten men, praising his ability to break up play and provide an assist [1]. Rice was lauded for a "proper captain's performance" across the pitch, also contributing an assist [1]. Sakamoto was selected for his hard work and humility, delivering in a significant match for Coventry [1].
The forward line features Johan Manzambi of Aston Villa, Ollie McBurnie of Hull, and Taiwo Awoniyi of Coventry [1]. Deeney described the 21-year-old Manzambi as "flying" and taking over the Villa team, noting his confidence and another assist [1]. This continues a trend, as Manzambi was also selected in the previous week's team, where Deeney called him the "player of the month so far" [2]. McBurnie was praised for his "grafter" spirit, goals, and assists, epitomizing the fight of his team [1]. Awoniyi was singled out for an "unbelievable solo goal" and his ability to impose himself on the game, with Deeney suggesting he is key to Coventry's survival [1].
The manager of the week is Frank Lampard of Coventry, who was recognized for leading his team to a victory against Sunderland in a "massive six-pointer" [1]. Deeney noted that Coventry played front-footed and aggressively against a strong opponent [1]. Additionally, Deeney offered a "massive nod" to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta for his team's performance against Liverpool [1].
The selections reflect a focus on players who influenced the outcome of their matches through individual brilliance or consistent effort. While Arsenal provided the most players with three selections, Coventry also featured prominently with two players and the manager of the week, highlighting the team's recent positive results [1]. The inclusion of players from clubs like Hull and Coventry underscores Deeney's emphasis on effort and impact regardless of team stature [1]. The detailed commentary on each player provides specific context for their inclusion, ranging from defensive resilience to goal-scoring contributions [1].