45. Michu (Swansea City)
The little-known Spaniard was signed by Swansea City from Rayo Vallecano for just £2million and has been a revelation in his first season in the Premier League. 17 goals in the league have helped the Swans to the top half of the table and a few more in the Capital One Cup have earned his side some surprise silverware. Will surely be a target for bigger clubs now after this breakthrough campaign.
44. Rafael Da Silva (Manchester United)
Brazilian right-back Rafael has come into his own for Manchester United this season, forming an important part of Sir Alex Ferguson’s title-winning team. As well as being solid defensively, the 22-year-old has an eye for an assist and the occasional spectacular goal, with tremendous and important strikes against Liverpool and QPR.
43. Leighton Baines (Everton)
The Everton man has shown himself to be a real talent with his performances this season. With his excellent left foot, Baines has at many points during the season been Europe’s most accurate crosser and creator of most scoring chances for his team-mates. A regular England spot and transfer to a bigger club surely beckons if his form continues like this.
42. Mario Goetze (Borussia Dortmund)
The talented German playmaker may not be so popular with his own fans now after confirming he will be leaving Borussia Dortmund for rivals Bayern Munich at the end of the season, but there’s no doubting his ability and contribution to their achievements this season, with an incredible run to the Champions League final at Wembley.
41. Marek Hamsik (Napoli)
The Napoli star often goes unnoticed due to the presence of Edinson Cavani at the club, but Hamsik is a crucial part of the team and one of the best midfielders in Europe at the moment. Joint top with Barcelona’s Andres Iniesta on assists (14) this season, the Slovakian playmaker continues to develop into a fine player.