Riyad Mahrez and Serge Aurier are both coming towards the end of difficult years -- for different reasons -- but as we head towards the twilight of 2019, both served reminders of their enduring qualities during big wins this past weekend.
It was poignant that Aurier, who was a surprise inclusion in CAF's 2018 African Team of the Year, enjoyed such a return to form on the same weekend that he was overlooked for the 30-man shortlist for the 2019 African Player of the Year award.
Jose Mourinho's recent arrival at Tottenham Hotspur, as a replacement for Mauricio Pochettino, has prompted considerable discussion on which players will come into the club, and who will be deemed surplus to requirements.