Premier League ups and downs this week

The top three winners and losers from this week are:
UPS
Dirk Kuyt, Liverpool
His work rate is often overlooked but his industry was supplemented with an equalising goal against Cardiff and a successful conversion in the shoot-out of the Carling Cup final as the Dutchman won his first winner's medal at Anfield.


Terry Connor, Wolves
Eyebrows were raised when Mick McCarthy's assistant was handed the reins to try to keep Wolves in the Premier League, but if the team's fightback against Newcastle to earn a point is any indication of his qualities, he could well be the man for the job.

Ryan Giggs Manchester United
On his 900th appearance for the club, the Welshman, who is already the only man to have appeared and scored in every Premier League campaign, netted the winner against Norwich City - his 163rd in Manchester United colours.

DOWNS
Stuart Pearce, England
The Under 21 coach takes charge of the senior team for the first time in a friendly against Holland tomorrow at Wembley Stadium minus Wayne Rooney (throat infection), Darren Bent (ankle), Tom Cleverley (foot) and Kyle Walker (ankle).

Ledley King, Tottenham
The centre-back looked three yards off the pace against the blistering speed of Arsenal's attack in the north London derby. It looks like the knee problems that have blighted his career may have finally taken their toll on the Spurs captain.

Mario Balotelli, Manchester City
The striker could be forgiven for thinking a goal on his return to the team against Blackburn would enhance his chances of a call-up for Italy. Not so. Cesare Prandelli's a hard man to please, it seems.