These ten were named by Jamie Redknapp as those who would make a big impression in the coming season. We therefore have no choice but to place a picture of Jamie’s missus on the site!
JACK WILSHERE (Arsenal) A 5ft 5in player might have struggled in the Premier League land of the giants until Xavi and Iniesta, that devilishly talented Spanish midfield duo, made it fashionable to be small — and a midfield match-winner. Wilshere is only 17, still learning, but he hits a brilliant delivery. Watch him bloom, as long as Arsene Wenger gives him enough games.
DIDIER DROGBA (Chelsea) It’s a massive season for Didier Drogba. He has only scored more than 20 goals in a season once and that’s not good enough for a player with his ability. He bullies defenders and, if he keeps his head, must surely have a memorable season. Any defender would hate to play against this brute of a forward.
GARETH BARRY (Manchester City) Might end up as the most important player in their team. He will have his work cut out because Mark Hughes has built a squad to attack, so the defensive midfield kingpin will have a lot of space to cover. But he has that annoying habit of passing to his own team-mates and is a smart lad. Don’t be suprised if he outshines the higher-profile signings.
JACK COLLISON (West Ham) He grabbed my attention last season as a good midfield all-rounder, who will still like to add more goals to his game, but is an emerging talent. He’ll get plenty of football and working under Gianfranco Zola will only help him to improve and his energy and touch suggests West Ham have discovered yet another talent.
ANTONIO VALENCIA (Manchester United) I wondered whether to include him because many players need a season settling in at a big club, especially when they follow a player like Cristiano Ronaldo. But watch his speed. He is a flying machine, who also delivers a cross at the end of his burst. He will get bums off seats at Old Trafford.
FABIAN DELPH (Aston Villa) New to the Premier League scene, but I’ve watched him — and liked him — for a while. He has a nastiness to his game, which you need, and he won’t be afraid to put his foot in. He will grow at Aston Villa and will develop under Martin O’Neill’s careful guidance. Can pass with both feet. Excellent buy.
WADE ELLIOTT (Burnley) I watched this lad at Bournemouth and he has a tremendous engine and can run all over the field. If Burnley fall short and don’t quite make it, Wade will stay in the Premier League because other clubs will take him. He scored the goal to take them up and plays wide midfield or through the middle.
FERNANDO TORRES (Liverpool) Sorry, I can’t deliver a list of players I want to see and not include Torres. Quite simply, he is the best centre forward in the world. He’s quick, strong and scores goals and defenders say they can’t rattle him. Leads the line with authority and class. Predictable inclusion, but breathtaking quality.
MICHAEL OWEN (Manchester United) With every day I think this is an even better decision by Sir Alex. With his ability, his pedigree and his record, Michael only has to stay fit and this will be a spectacular coup. Alongside Wayne Rooney, he will get chances and I can see that sparkle back in his eye. It spells danger for defenders.
LUKA MODRIC (Tottenham Hotspur) A hell of a player and a manager’s dream, so I am told. He trains like a demon and never complains, will work with and without the ball on the field and can beat a defender with a trick or with a pass. He could get into any team in the top four and he’ll be even better this season. (Daily Mail)
What do you make of this list? Anyone missing? Anyone on here who seems out of place?