Michael Carrick (Manchester United)
A vastly under-rated player, Michael Carrick rightly earned great plaudits for his performances for Manchester United as they won the Premier League title last season, emerging among the candidates for PFA Player of the Year. Understated as always, Carrick has continued to go about his business this season despite the club being linked with a host of new midfield signings. The 32-year-old current leads the league in terms of interceptions, making on average 4.3 crucial interventions per game for the champions, and also attempts the most passes per game of any player in the country, with 80.6 per match. More than just a defensive player, Carrick’s ability on the ball keeps United ticking along nicely.