40 – Rafael, Man United
Young Brazilian has made the right-back slot his own and is a player who is as competent in defence as he is capable going forward to support the attack.
39 – Phil Jagielka, Everton
The 30-year-old has continued to prove how vital his is to Everton as well as putting forward a strong case for a starting role with the England national team. Jagielka is a strong candidate to take over a club captain when Phil Neville eventually steps down.
38 – Clint Dempsey, Tottenham Hotspur
‘Deuce’ was an unexpected arrival at White Heart Lane last summer as a move to Liverpool fell through. He may not have hit the form he found during his final season at Fulham, he has added a fight and heart to the Spurs attack that makes them more dangerous than they’ve ever been.
37 – Romelu Lukaku, West Bromwich Albion
Raw and powerful, Chelsea sent him out on loan to Albion to gain some much-needed experience and hone that incredible goal scoring ability in a low-pressured environment. 13 goals for The Baggies suggests that he will be ready to lead Chelsea’s front line next season and Albion will have a tough time replacing him.
36 – Danny Welbeck, Manchester United
Equally capable on the wing or as a striker, there is still a debate over what his best position actually is. Strong, tall, quick and good in the air would suggest that he’s made to be a striker, but his work rate and dribbling ability say otherwise. One thing is sure, though, and that’s at 21 years of age, there is still plenty of time to figure it out.