Monk hails ‘incredible’ Ayew

Gomis converted the penalty that allowed Swansea to equalise for the second time and ultimately denied Chelsea the opportunity to kick-start their defence of their Premier League title with a victory.

The manager told reporters: “He’s come in and he’s been incredible”. First half I think high quality, with 10 men we fought hard. Oscar is a fixture in the Chelsea lineup, and he could be in for a strong season if he continues playing in an advanced attacking role.

“We played very well in the first half, the game was under control, the players were playing with more and more confidence”.

The marquee match of the day had seen Tottenham dominate early on until Walker’s own goal enabled United, with five expensive debutants in their ranks, to take the points even though they only had one shot on target.

If Cork is to make his mark, Swansea will need a massive improvement on last season’s meetings with Jose Mourinho’s men.

Mourinho remonstrated angrily when the decision was made, but after the game his silence spoke volumes as the manager made it clear he was reluctant to go public with his feelings about the incident.

Referee Michael Oliver showed the Belgian keeper a red card and Gomis got up to slot the penalty past his replacement in goal, new signing Asmir Begovic.

“It doesn’t have the same feel as last year at Old Trafford, but it’s a similar sort of performance”, Williams told the club’s official website.

On goalkeeper David de Gea, left out amid interest from Real Madrid, Van Gaal added: “He is our best player for the past two seasons, chosen by the fans, so we can’t let him go so easily”.

But they twice squandered the lead, with goals from Miguel Layun and substitute Odion Ighalo cancelled out in turn by Ross Barkley and Arouna Kone.

“I can’t be too critical”, said Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe, whose side won the Championship last season. Norwich City, promoted via the play-offs in May, lost 3-1 at home to Crystal Palace.