This article is part of our The Armband series.
When it looked like picking a captain was easy, the two highest scoring players in the game came up empty in the third weekend of matches. And so, we're back to the drawing board.
Since Gameweek 3 seems like a month ago, let's go backward before moving forward.
Alexis Sanchez and Raheem Sterling were the stars of the weekend, the former finally coming through with a goal and two assists, and the latter providing a brace. Eden Hazard and Willian were also at the top of lists, both with a goal for Chelsea in a 3-0 win against Burnley.
The most surprising (and disappointing) thing of the weekend was that only two forwards found the back of the net. Jermain Defoe once again tallied, while Jamie Vardy netted his first of the campaign. And for the most part, that's all that needs to be said outside of Riyad Mahrez, who missed a penalty and finished with zero fantasy points against Swansea. Sorry to anyone that captained him.
But not to worry, another week is ahead to make up for past miscues. Of course, this has to be done without Sergio Aguero, who is suspended for the next three matches (only two Premier League matches, luckily).
And, as usual after an international break, wait until the final day before deciding whom to give the armband to.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic will still be at the top of lists even in the Manchester derby. Ibra's scoring rate at home matches is unquestioned, even though most of that comes from his time with PSG. In his home opener for United, he bagged two goals against Southampton and City's defense isn't unstoppable by any means, allowing one goal in all three league matches.
Hazard will also be a popular pick (and is easier to trust than Diego Costa) by many with a road match at Swansea. The Belgian midfielder looks as deadly as ever under Antonio Conte, with 2015 seeming like a small blip in his career. Alexis will be a favorite, but his travels in international play can't be ignored. Having flown back to South America for Chile's games, I'd avoid him if possible.
The man I'd rather focus on is Santi Cazorla with Arsenal hosting Southampton. While the Spaniard has quietly been forgotten about in the Gunners midfield, he's played important minutes in the early campaign. Mesut Ozil may get more attention, but Cazorla has been better in the early going.
And maybe the player with the most eyes on him will be Dimitri Payet, who is expected to take back his spot in West Ham's starting lineup. A home match against Watford, who have allowed six goals already, should have owners licking their lips.
Liverpool are home against Leicester and I'll probably avoid most players in this match. That said, Liverpool's defense has been horrid, so Vardy may be a sneaky play to build on his goal from last match. For contrarian plays, Andre Gray and up-and-down Burnley host Hull City. The last time Burnley were home, Gray and Sam Vokes countered Liverpool en route to a 2-0 win.
Alvaro Negredo is another forward who failed to find the score sheet last match. However, a home game against Crystal Palace could change that.
If you really want to go against the grain, the Middlesbrough defense could be used. Palace have scored a league-low one goal through three matches. But does anyone have it in them to consider Brad Guzan as a captain?
I will if you will.
