Another Premier League weekend kicks off with Chelsea's trip to Liverpool on Saturday lunchtime, and as always, there will be a few people under extra pressure to deliver.
Below, Sports Mole takes a look at three individuals stealing the headlines heading into the next round of fixtures.
1. Brendan Rodgers
Rodgers ensured that he would dominate large sections of the back pages this week with his decision to leave a number of key players out of the starting lineup for the 1-0 defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League. Raheem Sterling, Steven Gerrard, Mario Balotelli and Philippe Coutinho were among the players named on the bench, and it would be fair to say that not everyone was a fan of the decision.
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The Liverpool boss has managed to ride the storm since losing in the Spanish capital, but the pressure will be on him to get the best out of the aforementioned players when Chelsea visit Anfield. You would have to assume that Rodgers felt the clash with the Premier League leaders was a more winnable game than the meeting with Madrid, although some have argued that both games should have been treated as priorities.
In truth, Rodgers has handled the negative attention relatively well. However, a defeat to Chelsea would see questions raised about his selection in Madrid again. His decision to only use the likes of Gerrard and Sterling in the second half against Madrid must be vindicated. If Chelsea cruise to victory, Rodgers will face a tougher challenge fighting off the criticism.
2. Manuel Pellegrini
Some may argue about the inclusion of Rodgers on this list, but there can be no doubt that Pellegrini is under huge pressure heading into Manchester City's game against Queens Park Rangers on Saturday. Victory in the Manchester derby last weekend had supposedly led City out of a difficult period, but the Premier League champions were dealt another blow in midweek.
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A 2-1 loss to CSKA Moscow in the Champions League has left City's European hopes hanging by a thread after another disappointing display in the competition. It was a terrible performance by Pellegrini's side and they could have no arguments, but Pellegrini appeared to be unable to explain why his side were struggling.
Over the past few years, we've been used to seeing City tear teams apart and a convincing display is exactly what they need to return to their best form. Without Sergio Aguero's brilliant form, they could be in a far worse position in the Premier League, too. Pellegrini needs to inspire his players to produce a big performance as soon as possible. If the Chilean can turn things around, it could be bad news for QPR.
3. Saido Berahino
Berahino has attracted nothing but positive attention recently, and he certainly is a player in the spotlight ahead of West Bromwich Albion's clash with Newcastle United on Sunday. On Thursday, the Baggies striker was deservedly handed a spot in the England squad due to his impressive early-season form. However, breaking into the England squad changes everyone's perception of a player.
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Over the years, some have struggled to handle the pressure of becoming an international player, while others have thrived off being recognised for their achievements at club level. Performances over the next few months will shape which category Berahino is included in. Every week England supporters will be judging his displays, and making up their own minds over whether he is good enough for international football. All he can do is prove his quality, starting with a big performance at The Hawthorns this weekend.
Callum Mulvihill
