6. Michael Carrick (Manchester United)
Michael Carrick got some much-deserved recognition with a PFA Player of the Year nomination this season, though the reaction of surprise to the Manchester United being listed among the candidates shows how much opinion he divides. There’s no doubting that he’s a crucial part of this United team though, having been first choice at the club since arriving in 2006, and keeping the play moving with his neat passing, doing a simple job well and allowing others to shine. He’s not the most glamerous player, but he must be doing something right if he’s been part of one of the best teams in the country for the last seven years.