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Debut watch

There were a host of new names in action on the opening weekend of the new Premier League season. Adam Bate picks out the performances of Liverpool forward Iago Aspas and Southampton defender Dejan Lovren for a closer look.

Dejan Lovren

Dejan Lovren impressed on Saints debut

While Aspas made an impression with his cute passing and elusive movement, subtlety was not the modus operandi of Southampton centre-back Dejan Lovren. But the Croatia international defender was equally effective on his Saints debut, helping the visitors to a clean sheet and a 1-0 win at West Brom.

Given that the team didn't manage a shut-out on their travels until January last season that's no mean feat. Improving the centre of defence was a priority for Mauricio Pochettino in the summer and in Lovren he has acquired a player who appears to be a good fit for Premier League football.

"We're very clear about our goals and Lovren was one of them," said Pochettino at the time. "He is quality as a player, has a presence on the field and he's good at solving difficult situations. I think his qualities will really suit the Premier League."

Lovren played a series of crossfield passes and contested numerous duels

It certainly seemed that way at the Hawthorns. Just ask Shane Long, the Baggies forward who was on the receiving end of Lovren's elbow in one aerial duel. He showed good strength and won the battle of the debutants with Albion forward Nicolas Anelka.

"He's been very good this afternoon," said Sky Sports pundit Trevor Francis on commentary. "He makes good interceptions and has been very solid." The only other centre-backs to win three tackles and make three interceptions on the opening weekend were Robert Huth and Sylvain Distin - perhaps as good an indication as any that Lovren favours the physical side of the game.

But more than that, he can play. Lovren's composure on the ball was an asset for Southampton with a series of sweeping passes suggesting he is capable of turning defence into attack and shifting the point of attack well. Even at a reported L8.5million, the 24-year-old could prove a canny addition.