Gael Bigirimana, 19, Newcastle United
The midfielder from Burundi was considered a snip at just under £1 million when he signed from Coventry City last summer.
He announced himself in December when he hit a wonderful 20-yard effort in his side’s 3-0 win over Wigan. Alan Pardew sheepishly admitted that he had only been included in the squad that day due to injuries elsewhere, but if he continues to perform the way that he has then he’ll find himself in the squad on merit in no time. A natural athlete who will sweat blood for the team, he has become the first Burundian to play in the Premier League.
Andreas Weimann, 21, Aston Villa
Few had expected the young Austrian to have the impact he has had already this season, but there’s a sense that Villa have a real star on their hands here.
Brought into the squad last season after Darren Bent’s injury ruled him out for the rest of the campaign, Weimann scored two crucial goals to keep Villa in the Premier League. His tenacity and running made him stand out but this season his goals have added to his worth to the team. Comfortable up front or out wide, he has formed a terrifying partnership with Christian Benteke and already has 11 strikes this season. If Villa can tie him down to a new deal then next season they could have one of the leagues most natural finishers helping them move on from their current predicament.