A comprehensive list of the Premier League’s best 100 players.
100. Danny Welbeck (Manchester United)
The Manchester United youngster may not have had the best season in front of goal in 2012/13, but it’s clear that the lanky striker offers enough upfront that Sir Alex Ferguson saw enough in him to regularly play him ahead of the likes of Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez. Still only 22, there is plenty more to come from Danny Welbeck, and he will surely benefit from playing in a top class side.
99. Shane Long (West Brom)
West Brom striker Shane Long is improving all the time with his tireless displays upfront for the Baggies. The Irishman scored some crucial goals for Steve Clarke’s side last season, helping the team to their best ever Premier League finishing position and points tally. Several clubs have shown an interest in Long this summer, but he seems set to continue starring at the Hawthorns this year.
98. Aaron Ramsey (Arsenal)
After a career-threatening injury a couple of years ago, there are signs that young Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey may be getting back to his best. The Welshman has tremendous potential, showing great energy and a fine range of passing in the middle of the park. Under the guidance of manager Arsene Wenger, he will surely only continue to improve and become an important part of this Gunners side.
97. Angel Rangel (Swansea)
Long-serving Spanish defender Angel Rangel has played his part in Swansea’s journey from League One to the Premier League in the last few years, and he is starting to establish himself as one of the Premier League’s top full-backs. The 30-year-old suits the Swans’ attacking style well, getting forward to score 3 goals last season, and helping them to victory in the Capital one Cup.
96. Sandro (Tottenham)
Brazilian midfielder Sandro has not truly had the chance yet to show his superb talent, as he has suffered several long-term injuries in his time at Tottenham. However, he is highly rated at White Hart Lane and does his job of protecting the back four perfectly. If he can stay fit, Sandro will show himself to be one of the league’s top defensive midfielders.
95. Adam Johnson (Sunderland)
One of the most naturally skillful English players, winger Adam Johnson can count himself somewhat unfortunate not to have been given more of a chance at previous club Manchester City, or indeed for the England national team. He has since looked a little off form at struggling Sunderland, but could shine in a more attack-minded side. Certainly one to watch for this season under new exciting manager Paolo Di Canio.
94. Kevin Nolan (West Ham)
Still only 31, it feels like Kevin Nolan has been around forever. The West Ham man has consistently been one of the league’s most prolific midfielders since his days at Bolton and Newcastle. He still shows no signs of slowing down, flourishing again under his mentor Sam Allardyce at Upton Park, who has also trusted him with the captain’s armband, a fitting reward for this thoroughly professional role model.
93. Papiss Cisse (Newcastle)
Although Papiss Cisse suffered a little from second season syndrome in 2012/13, the Senegalese striker has the potential to produce the sensational at any moment, as he showed in a sensational first few months with Newcastle. The 28-year-old scored one of the best Premier League goals of all time against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, and always has that in his locker with his superb shooting technique. If he gets firing again, he will be a crucial member of this Newcastle side.
92. Kieran Gibbs (Arsenal)
Another Arsenal player whose constant injury niggles have slowed him down over the years, Kieran Gibbs is finally starting to look like Arsenal material. The talented young left-back has improved defensively, and is also adding more of an end product going forward, contributing some useful assists last season as well as a stunning volleyed goal away to Swansea in the FA Cup. An England call-up is surely just around the corner for this vastly improved player, who has done well to keep January signing Nacho Monreal mostly on the bench since his arrival.
91. Chico (Swansea)
Swansea centre-back Chico Flores looks like a bargain at £2million, having joined the club from Serie A side Genoa last summer. The Spaniard has formed a great partnership with captain Ashley Williams, and is unfortunate not to get the same recognition as his much-coveted team-mate. Chico’s statistics are great, and he looks likely to be a big part of Swansea’s continuing rise.
90. Luke Shaw (Southampton)
It has been a sensational first season in Southampton’s first team for Luke Shaw. The young left-back was made first choice for the newly-promoted side at the start of last season, despite being just 17 years old. One year on and he is attracting serious interest from big clubs such as Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham. His attacking style from the back has seen him compared with a young Gareth Bale, and there’s no doubt Shaw will go down as another top talent produced by the Saints’ highly successful youth academy. Despite transfer speculation, he seems set to stay at St Mary’s for at least another season to continue his development.
89. Morgan Schneiderlin (Southampton)
French midfield player Morgan Schneiderlin is another fine young player that has developed at Southampton. After joining the club as a teenager in 2008, he has helped guide them back to the top flight through two successive promotions, and attracted a great deal of interest in this summer’s transfer window as well. Arsenal and Inter Milan were among the teams looking at him, though he seems set to stay now and form a potentially devastating midfield partnership with new signing Victor Wanyama.
88. Gabriel Agbonlahor (Aston Villa)
A player that struggles somewhat for consistency, but one who has been around for a long time and who is always a tricky player for Premier League defences to handle. The strong and pacey striker showed plenty of potential as a youngster, and although he has not quite lived up to that hype, a run in the team without injuries could give him the perfect opportunity to show what he can do, especially as he looked to find a new lease of life towards the end of last season under new manager Paul Lambert.
87. Nani (Manchester United)
As naturally gifted a player as you’re likely to see, Portuguese winger Nani is a joy to watch when he’s in the mood, with the potential for great solo runs and thumping long range shots always in his locker. The 26-year-old had a disappointing season last year, but one would expect that to just be a blip and for him to be back to his best soon, in which case he will be a reliable source of goals and assists from midfield.
86. Ryan Shawcross (Stoke)
Although a slightly controversial character due to his overly aggressive style of defending, Ryan Shawcross is undoubtedly one of the Premier League’s most solid and reliable centre-backs. Formerly a youngster of Manchester United, Shawcross has grown into a top player at Stoke, and a leader as well, taking the club captaincy at a young age. He recently earned his first cap for England and is set to continue his improvement this season, which will surely eventually lead to interest from a top six side.
85. Craig Bellamy (Cardiff)
Welsh journeyman Craig Bellamy is back in the Premier League again at the age of 34 with newly-promoted Cardiff City, and it would be no surprise to see him continue as one of the league’s most exciting attacking players. The forward has lit up these shores for many years now with the likes of Newcastle, Blackburn, Liverpool and Manchester City, and his experience and quality could prove crucial in ensuring Cardiff have a chance of surviving relegation this season. Even in his advancing years, he will surely still be one to watch out for this year.
84. Sylvain Distin (Everton)
Sylvain Distin has been one of the Premier League’s most solid and consistent central defenders for many years now, and is still a big part of what makes Everton so hard to beat. The 35-year-old has done well to keep going at the top level for so long, and it will be a huge boost to new Toffees manager Roberto Martinez to have such a top quality, experienced leader with him at the club as he takes on the difficult job of replacing David Moyes.
83. Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United)
Nemanja Vidic would surely still be regarded as one of the very best defenders in the league and even the world if not for his repeated lengthy spells out with injury in the last few years. The Manchester United captain will certainly be remembered as one of Sir Alex Ferguson’s best signings, arriving from Spartak Moscow for just £7million in 2005. Almost instantly, he became a key member of a new-look side that was set for domestic and European domination throughout the late noughties. As well as being a solid, uncompromising centre half, Vidic has always shown an eye for the odd crucial goal as well, with 18 to his name in total for the Red Devils. Still only 31, there is time for the Serbian to recover and be one of the best players in the country again.
82. Gael Clichy (Manchester City)
Some Arsenal fans were not too concerned by the sale of Gael Clichy to Manchester City in 2011, but the Frenchman has gone on to show great form for his new side, and helped them win the Premier League title in his first season there. The 2011/12 title is his second winner’s medal, and he has undoubtedly been one of the best full-backs in the country for many years now, ever since first emerging as a promising youngster in Arsenal’s Invincibles side of 2004. Although prone to lapses in concentration, and rarely a huge contributor in goals or assists, there are few players as quick as Clichy, which makes him a highly frustrating opponent for wingers to come up against.
81. Michel Vorm (Swansea)
What a find Michel Vorm has been for Swansea City. The Dutch goalkeeper arrived from Eredivisie side Utrecht for just £1.5million in 2011, and is now rated as one of the best goalkeepers in Europe, attracting strong interest in recent times from the likes of Barcelona and Arsenal. The 29-year-old has more than played his part in Swansea’s fine form since their promotion to the Premier League, and they may now face a fight to keep him at the Liberty Stadium as his stock continues to rise.
80. Tim Howard (Everton)
A truly under-rated player, American goalkeeper Tim Howard has responded brilliantly to his early struggles at Manchester United. Having initially moved to Old Trafford in 2003, he could not maintain a first-team place due to some high-profile individual errors, and he was quickly moved on to Everton. At Goodison Park, however, he has become one of the Premier League’s best goalkeepers, regularly keeping the Toffees in games with crucial saves with his fine reflexes and shot-stopping abilities. He even managed a goal for his side in the 2011/12 season, scoring somewhat fortuitously with a goalkick that looped over the head of his opposite number, making him the fourth goalkeeper to score in a Premier League match.
79. Mohamed Diame (West Ham)
A combative and skillful midfield player, West Ham star Mohamed Diame looks made for the bigger stage after his displays for both the Hammers and Wigan before them. The Senegal international looked close to joining either Arsenal or Tottenham in January, though a move never materialised. If he keeps up his fine performances, he is sure to attract interest from top clubs again soon enough. He managed 3 goals from midfield last season, and seems to have a habit of scoring in the big games.
78. Brede Hangeland (Fulham)
Norwegian centre-back Brede Hangeland has turned out to be an inspired signing by Roy Hodgson for Fulham. Since joining in 2008, he has been widely regarded as one of the best defenders not to be playing in the top six sides, and has regularly been linked with moves to Arsenal among others. He would certainly benefit from better players around him, particularly in his back four, as Martin Jol’s team conceded far too many goals last season, but there’s no doubting Hangeland is an important player and leader for the Craven Cottage side.
77. Steven Fletcher (Sunderland)
Although hardly the most glamorous of Premier League forwards, Sunderland striker Steven Fletcher has shown himself to be one of the most lethal and clinical marksmen in the top flight for some years now, earning highly respectable goal-scoring figures for struggling sides such as Burnley and Wolves. He started last season in great form for the Black Cats before missing most of the season through injury, and the fortunes of Paolo Di Canio’s side will surely improve if Fletcher can stay fit and feature regularly.
76. Jermain Defoe (Tottenham)
Although regarded by many as something of a limited all-round player, there is no doubting Jermain Defoe’s ability in front of goal. The 30-year-old was once regarded as one of the best young talents in the country in his West Ham days, and he has undeniably made a good career for himself, with 210 league goals for the Hammers, Portsmouth and two spells with Tottenham. He has also featured regularly for England, earning 54 caps and scoring 19 goals. He was not at his best for the second half of last season, leading to rumours that he could be set for an exit from Spurs this summer, but Andre Villas-Boas seems determined to keep him around, clearly seeing the value in having such a proven and reliable goal-scorer in his ranks. No matter what, Defoe will rightly go down as one of Spurs’ best strikers in the Premier League, and he could still have a decisive impact as they chase that elusive top four spot.
75. Sebastian Larsson (Sunderland)
Since starting his career as a youngster at Arsenal, Sebastian Larsson looked a highly promising talent, and although his breakthrough ultimately came away from the Gunners, he has proven himself to be a quality Premier League player. Larsson first featured regularly for Birmingham City, earning a reputation for his wonder-goals and excellent set-piece delivery. Indeed some of the most memorable free-kicks of recent times in the Premier League have been scored by the Swede, and he continues to be a key performer for Sunderland.
74. James Milner (Manchester City)
James Milner is certainly a player that divides opinion among neutrals. The Manchester City midfielder is perhaps unfortunate not to be more of a regular, or played in his preferred central midfield spot, where he looked particularly impressive for his former side Aston Villa. Now 27, he is no longer a promising youngster, and should perhaps move elsewhere for regular first-team football, as he has shown he can be a top performer for an upper mid-table team. Still, despite his critics at City, Milner has often been picked in the big games, due to his tremendous work-rate and willingness to fight for the good of the team, and his versatility makes him a useful member of any squad. He has also scored some memorable goals, and at important times as well, with two of his four goals last season coming away from home to Arsenal and Manchester United.
73. Asmir Begovic (Stoke)
There has been much speculation this summer over the future of Stoke City goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, as the Bosnian has continued to show himself to be a truly top class shot-stopper. The 26-year-old looks set to remain at the Britannia Stadium, but was thought to be heading to any one of Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United or Liverpool during this transfer window, and with his recent impressive performances, he would command a fee of around £15million or more. Interestingly, he will face some stiff competition from exciting young goalkeeping talent Jack Butland this season, giving Mark Hughes two excellent players to choose from between the sticks.
72. Cheick Tiote (Newcastle)
Ivorian midfield powerhouse Cheick Tiote is rightly regarded as one of the toughest and most aggressive midfielders in the Premier League, and has been a great signing for Newcastle. He has unsurprisingly been linked with moves away to bigger teams several times, though the Magpies will be pleased to have held on to him so far. Although he only has one goal to his name for the club, it certainly was a memorable one – a superb first-time dipping volley against Arsenal to earn a remarkable 4-4 draw. If he could add a little more end-product to his game, he would certainly find himself in the top bracket of Premier League midfield men.
71. Arouna Kone (Everton)
Ivory Coast international striker Arouna Kone has had something of an up-and-down career, first impressing in Europe with Dutch sides Roda and PSV, before flopping somewhat in La Liga with Sevilla. In recent years he has once again looked a top quality striker, earning a move to Wigan after scoring 17 goals in the 2011/12 season for Levante. He adapted quickly to the Premier League, and although he could not save the Latics from relegation, his 13 goals have earned him a quick return to the top flight with Everton. Playing once again under his previous manager at Wigan, Roberto Martinez, it would not be surprising to see Kone become a top player for Everton this season as they chase a European place. Strong, pacey and clinical, Kone has all the best attributes of a Premier League striker.
70. Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United)
Still the most expensive defender of all time, Rio Ferdinand is undoubtedly a Manchester United legend. Surprisingly, there were rumours that he could end his long association with the club this summer, but he has stayed around and that is good news for fans at Old Trafford. Despite turning 35 in a few months, Ferdinand is still one of the best centre-backs in the country, and should arguably still be an England regular. His quality and experience will be valuable for new manager David Moyes this season, and with United’s record of keeping their best players even through old age, the former Leeds and West Ham man could keep going at the top for a few more years yet.
69. Ashley Williams (Swansea)
Ashley Williams has done brilliantly in making the step up to Premier League football with Swansea. Having spent most of his career in the lower leagues, the Welshman is now considered hot property after his match-winning displays for the Swans, where as captain he has led them to glory in the Capital One Cup. His fine displays have attracted strong interest this summer from top teams such as Arsenal and Liverpool, who have been linked with making offers as high as £10million for the 28-year-old. He could still move, or he will surely continue to serve Michael Laudrup’s side well as they establish themselves as a top-half Premier League side.
68. Hugo Lloris (Tottenham)
Remarkably, Tottenham were able to sign Hugo Lloris from Lyon for just £8.5million, almost unchallenged. The Frenchman had already established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in Europe during his time with the Ligue 1 club, and he went on to enjoy an excellent first season in England as well. Although Spurs ultimately missed out on their goal of fourth place, Lloris’ performances were a big plus for Andre Villas-Boas, and having a goalkeeper of his quality for the many years to come bodes well for the future.
67. Lucas Leiva (Liverpool)
Liverpool midfielder Lucas is something of an unfulfilled talent at Anfield, having started as a first-team regular very young, and initially struggling with the pace of the game in England. However, he has really grown into a top player in the last few years, even with his constant struggle with injuries. A reliable and disciplined player, he protects the defence expertly, and is also more than capable of bringing the team forward and scoring the occasional spectacular goal. Lucas has formed a fine partnership with Steven Gerrard, and if he can stay fit this season he will provide a much-needed boost for Brendan Rodgers’ side. Napoli have shown an interest in signing the 26-year-old, but the Reds do not want to lose a player with such potential.
66. Leon Osman (Everton)
After years of being one of the most under-rated players in the Premier League, Leon Osman finally earned his first England call-up in 2012 in a friendly against Sweden. A hard-working professional, Osman has played in a variety of midfield roles for the Toffees, and is always a good source of goals for the club, scoring 8 last season, some of which have been excellent long range efforts. His strike against Manchester City last season was a particularly good example of his expert shooting technique with either foot. As well as his footballing ability, his passion and commitment to Everton as a one-club man makes him a real fans’ favourite at Goodison Park.
65. Phil Jagielka (Everton)
Another vastly under-rated player playing at Everton is defender Phil Jagielka. The England international arrived at the club in 2007 for just £4million, and has been a pivotal player for the club ever since. In recent years he has gained a little more recognition, and attracted interest from the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United, as well as becoming more of a regular for England, notching up 18 caps to date, scoring one goal.
64. Demba Ba (Chelsea)
Things haven’t quite worked out for Demba Ba so far at Chelsea, but given time there’s no reason he can’t reproduce the clinical form that made him such a success at Newcastle. An excellent piece of business by Alan Pardew, the Senegal international arrived at St James’ Park on a free, before leaving for Stamford Bridge for over £7million. A classy and confident finisher, Ba is capable of finding the back of the net from almost any position, but is best used as a penalty box poacher. There’s certainly potential for him to improve under the guidance of new Blues boss Jose Mourinho, who is known for his motivational abilities and getting players to reach another level.
63. Fernando Torres (Chelsea)
Another Chelsea striker who has not enjoyed his best form for some time is Fernando Torres. The Spaniard has had a difficult time since joining the Blues from Liverpool for £50million in 2011, though were signs in the Europa League last season that he was starting to find some form, scoring six goals in the competition, including the crucial opener in the final against Benfica. In his Liverpool days he was undoubtedly one of the best players in the world, and he continues to be a regular for this all-conquering Spanish national team. He may well be past his best, but it would be great for neutrals to see Torres rediscover some confidence at form for Chelsea this season.
62. Patrice Evra (Manchester United)
Despite some thinking Patrice Evra’s best years are behind him, the French left-back had one of his best seasons for Manchester United last season, particularly in terms of goals, as he scored four times from the back to contribute to the club’s 20th title win. Evra has been a loyal servant to the Old Trafford club since 2005, and despite rumours that he could leave this summer, the former Monaco man still looks like being first choice under new manager David Moyes, who will surely find his experience and fighting spirit crucial in his difficult first season in charge of United.
61. Adel Taarabt (Fulham)
A frustratingly inconsistent player, but one of the most naturally gifted attackers in the Premier League, without a doubt. Adel Taarabt does some things on the football pitch that are almost unbelievable, and many will be hoping he can mature and develop as a player in his loan spell with Fulham this season. Having failed somewhat at both Tottenham and Queens Park Rangers, there is the danger that the Moroccan will simply be a wasted talent, but he is still a great entertainer and one to look out for in the Premier League this season.
60. Kevin De Bruyne (Chelsea)
Although he is yet to make an appearance for Chelsea in the Premier League, this could be the season that Kevin De Bruyne establishes himself as one of the Premier League’s top talents. The 22-year-old has just had a highly successful loan spell in the Bundesliga with Werder Bremen, and looks to have put himself into the first-team plans of manager Jose Mourinho this season. The young Belgian can play in a variety of attacking midfield positions, and managed an impressive 10 goals and 10 assists in Germany last season. Although there is plenty of quality competition ahead of him at Stamford Bridge, De Bruyne looks deserving of a chance, and even if he doesn’t end up making it in this country, he is undoubtedly counts as one of the best emerging youngsters in this league at the moment.
59. Jonathan De Guzman (Swansea)
Dutch international Jonathan De Guzman was a big success on loan for Swansea last season, and will spend another year with the club on loan from Villareal for the 2013/14 campaign. The 25-year-old is a quality attacking midfielder, scoring 8 goals in another great season for the Swans, including a brace in the Capital One Cup final triumph over Bradford City. His fine form for Michael Laudrup’s side has seen him earn his first caps for the Netherlands national team in 2013, and he looks to have a very bright future in the game.
58. Moussa Dembele (Tottenham)
Tottenham’s Moussa Dembele is a quality central midfield player, who should be capable of great things for the White Hart Lane club this season after an inconsistent debut campaign. After first making a name for himself at Fulham, Dembele attracted a great deal of interest from several top clubs, and signed for Spurs for £15million last summer. An all-round box-to-box player, Dembele combines great work-rate with silky technical, dribbling and passing skills. Martin Jol, his former manager at Fulham, has described him as “probably the best player on the ball I’ve ever seen”. Hopefully he will fulfill his great potential in Spurs’ midfield this season.
57. Michael Carrick (Manchester United)
Michael Carrick was a surprise choice for some as a nomination for PFA Player of the Year at the end of last season, but it is some much-deserved recognition for an effective, if unspectacular, player. The former Tottenham and West Ham midfielder goes about his work quietly, keeping play ticking along for United and allowing others to shine. It is no wonder that he has been ever-present in their highly successful years since his arrival in 2006, and though not everyone appreciates it, his managers certainly do. He possesses great technique with his passing and has even managed the occasional spectacular long range effort in his career.
56. Michael Dawson (Tottenham)
Another under-appreciated player, Michael Dawson was nearly sold to Queens Park Rangers by Andre Villas-Boas last summer, before eventually becoming one of Spurs’ players of the season. The 29-year-old has been at White Hart Lane since arriving as a promising youngster from Nottingham Forest in 2005, and is deserving of his status as a fans’ favourite at the club. He is now club captain, and it is surprising indeed that he only has four caps for England, having been one of the country’s best defenders for many years now.
55. Simon Mignolet (Liverpool)
Simon Mignolet’s rise over the last few years has been sensational, arriving at Sunderland as a relative unknown and quickly becoming one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League. Unsurprisingly, his fantastic displays for the Black Cats saw him linked with a whole host of clubs this summer, before he eventually joined Liverpool for around £9million. Part of this talented generation of Belgians, Mignolet looks a great signing for the Reds, who were in need of an upgrade on previous number one Pepe Reina. Mignolet’s saves played a huge part in keeping Sunderland in the Premier League last year, can they help propel Brendan Rodgers’ side to the top four this season?
54. Matija Nastasic (Manchester City)
Matija Nastasic has been a great find by Manchester City, in a rare move away from buying big-name, expensive established stars. The promising young defender joined the club last summer for around £12million from Fiorentina, and immediately looked ready to deal with the pressure of playing for the Premier League champions. Showing a maturity beyond his years, the Serbian established himself as first choice for Roberto Mancini’s side, and certainly looks like one of the best young talents in the game at the moment. His expert reading of the game and positional play make him a great partner for Vincent Kompany, and should give City a good chance of reclaiming the Premier League title this season.
53. Rickie Lambert (Southampton)
After a career spent in the lower leagues, 2012/13 was a fantastic year for Southampton striker Rickie Lambert. Now set to win his first cap for England, the 31-year-old found the back of the net 15 times for the Saints last season, making him the joint-top English scorer in the Premier League. As well as his goals, Lambert’s link-up play is superb, and he looks right at home under the technical attacking style of new manager Mauricio Pochettino. It’s a bit of a mystery as to why he has only gained this recognition so late in his career, but now that he’s got his chance, he looks determined to make the most of it, and he should be a joy to watch again this season.
52. Andy Carroll (West Ham)
Although he was never worth the £35million Liverpool paid Newcastle for him, Andy Carroll can hopefully find his best form again for West Ham. The England international spent the 2012/13 season on loan at Upton Park, and looks a perfect fit under the tactics of Hammers boss Sam Allardyce. He could do well to be a bit more out of the spotlight for a while, but it surely won’t be long before Carroll becomes one of the most talked about strikers in the country again, as he was when he first burst onto the scene as a youngster at Newcastle in 2010. A tall and powerful target man, there are few better headers in the league, and he’s got a fierce left foot on him as well, showing that he’s not a one-trick pony.
51. Aaron Lennon (Tottenham)
Aaron Lennon has perhaps not become the world beater he looked like becoming when he first caught the eye as a 16-year-old at Leeds, but he has given eight years of great service to Tottenham. One of the paciest and trickiest wingers in the league, Lennon is always a danger when he’s on the ball and running at his full-back. He was linked with a move away from the club this summer, but he looks like sticking around and continuing his long association with Spurs. When on form there are few better natural wingers in the country, and he is always a reliable source of goals and assists.
50. Rafael Da Silva (Manchester United)
After a few years of feeling himself into the role of Manchester United’s first choice right-back, Rafael da Silva has had probably his best season in a red shirt, playing a big part in United’s Premier League title triumph. The Brazilian is a more naturally attack-minded full-back, but he has learned to balance these roles in the team perfectly, proving solid at the back and providing an end product going forward, with 3 goals and 3 assists from right-back last season, including some stunning strikes. His career is going decidedly better than his twin brother Fabio’s, that’s for sure.
49. Gary Cahill (Chelsea)
Gary Cahill has been an excellent signing for Chelsea, making the step up from Bolton to a top side without any difficulty. As well as being one of the best defenders in the country, Cahill possesses great technique and goal-scoring ability, and has a few crackers to his name in recent years, including an excellent and important opener in the Blues’ 4-2 win against Tottenham at White Hart Lane last season. Many clubs were chasing him before he moved to Stamford Bridge, and it’s remarkable that Chelsea managed to get him for only £7million. His presence in the team’s back four should help the club adjust to John Terry’s decrease in regular action in the latter stages of his career.
48. Per Mertesacker (Arsenal)
Questions have occasionally been raised about Per Mertesacker and his poor mobility. Indeed, the German can occasionally appear slow and sluggish, but he makes up for it with an exceptional talent for reading the game, and he has certainly played a big part in Arsenal’s improved defensive record in 2012/13. The 28-year-old has 90 caps for the German national team, which is no mean feat, and he has to go down as one of the most criminally under-rated players in the Premier League at the moment. Arriving from Werder Bremen for around £6million, he looks like another bargain piece of business by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger.
47. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal)
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is still young, raw and inconsistent, but in his two years at Arsenal he has shown plenty of promise in a variety of positions, and is already a regular for England, scoring an excellent goal away to Brazil earlier this summer. A confident, tenacious, attack-minded midfielder, Chamberlain has all the attributes to succeed either as a winger or in a central role, with great dribbling, passing and shooting. The likes of Manchester United were in for him before Arsenal snapped him up from Southampton, and once he can settle at Arsenal and mature a bit, he will surely be a world class player for club and country.
46. John Terry (Chelsea)
John Terry may no longer be guaranteed a regular starting place for Chelsea, but the legendary Blues captain has still shown he has plenty to offer the club. His leadership skills and ability to motivate his team-mates make him an important personality at the club, and he has to go down as one of the best centre-backs in the world over the last decade or so. He still has a great eye for goal as well, as he demonstrated with six strikes last season at important times. With Jose Mourinho returning to Stamford Bridge, perhaps Terry will be rejuvenated and find his best form once again. He had been linked with Monaco and Galatasaray earlier in the summer, but Mourinho clearly still sees the value in having him around, and looks to have kept him at the club for the time being.
45. Mikel Arteta (Arsenal)
Mikel Arteta seemed a slightly risky signing by Arsenal in the summer of 2011. Seen by some as a replacement for Cesc Fabregas, Arteta has ended up playing a more defensive role than his fellow Spaniard, and has provided the Gunners with some much-needed balance in their midfield. His passing statistics are excellent, and he has more than made his contribution going forward as well, with some important goals and assists. Arteta’s quality was clear for many years at Everton, and it is surprising that none of the other big sides snapped him up earlier, as he has shown at Arsenal that he belongs on the big stage. Still uncapped for Spain, he has had a slightly unfortunate career, but his experience and presence in this team can hopefully help bring glory to the Emirates Stadium this year.
44. Edin Dzeko (Manchester City)
Although not everyone’s cup of tea, there is no doubting that Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko is a clinical goal-scorer when given the chance. The Bosnian was highly prolific with his old club Wolsburg, and looked a good purchase for City when he joined for £25million in 2011. He has struggled for consistency in England, but he has also been a victim of City’s rotation system of their vast array of strikers. He looked to be on his way out of the Etihad Stadium this summer, with several top clubs such as Chelsea and Juventus monitoring his situation, but he will be looking to prove himself for his club this season under new manager Manuel Pellegrini.
43. Javier Hernandez (Manchester United)
Like Dzeko, Javier Hernandez is understandably frustrated at not being more of a regular starter for his club. The Manchester United striker made a brilliant start to life in the Premier League, firing Sir Alex Ferguson’s side to title glory in his first season at Old Trafford. Since then, however, he has been in and out of the team and has occasionally looked a little limited as a player. Few players possess a better goals-to-games ratio than the Mexican, and his talents have been admired by the likes of Real Madrid and Juventus this summer, though he now looks unlikely to move. Perhaps Chicharito will be given more of a chance to impress under new manager David Moyes.
42. Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City)
Pablo Zabaleta has become a real fans’ favourite at Manchester City over the last couple of years. The Argentine arrived in 2008, just a day before the club were bought by the Abu Dhabi United Group, and though he was initially more of a squad player, filling in in defence and midfield, he has now made the right-back spot his own, and is known for scoring big goals at important times. He opened the scoring in City’s famous 3-2 final day win over Queens Park Rangers, putting them on the way to winning the Premier League title. Overall, there are few better full-backs in the league, and Zabaleta is a reliable player who always gives it his all for the cause.
41. Steven Pienaar (Everton)
A classy midfield playmaker, Steven Pienaar has been a great servant to Everton for the last six years. Despite a brief and unsuccessful spell with Tottenham, the South African attacker returned to Goodison Park to carry on where he left off. Able to play centrally or out wide, Pienaar is always a source of creativity and goals for the Toffees, and has often been highly influential in big games and Everton’s most memorable victories. He had one of his best seasons last year in terms of goals, scoring 7 times, and it’s a wonder why he never got more of a chance during his time at Spurs, as he could surely add a great deal to most big clubs of the Premier League.
40. Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool)
Despite failing to make a real impact at Chelsea, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers saw glimpses of Daniel Sturridge’s talent, and he looks to have been a very good signing for the club. The 23-year-old joined for a reasonable price of £12million, and played his part in the club’s improved fortunes in the second half of last season. The England international managed 11 goals and 5 assists in just 16 appearances for the Reds, an excellent return, with many of his goals showing his superb shooting technique on his left foot, most notably a long range strike against another former club of his, Manchester City. Still a young and promising forward, Sturridge will certainly be one to watch this season.
39. Hatem Ben Arfa (Newcastle)
A genuine talent who has struggled with consistency and fitness over the last few years, Hatem Ben Arfa is a joy to watch on his day. The French winger enjoyed his best season in 2011/12, when he scored several goal-of-the-season contenders all by himself, with a combination of solo runs and long range strikes. The 26-year-old has occasionally attracted interest from bigger clubs, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him do similar things to Gareth Bale if given the opportunity. For now, he is one of Newcastle’s bright sparks, and he will be hoping to play a part in helping them climb the table this season after a disappointing battle against relegation in 2012/13.
38. Dimitar Berbatov (Fulham)
The enigmatic Bulgarian is another somewhat frustrating talent, as his undeniable brilliance is often overshadowed by laziness and inconsistency. Dimitar Berbatov first impressed in the Premier League with Tottenham, before becoming Manchester United’s record signing for over £30million. He never quite recaptured his best form at Old Trafford, but still contributed greatly to their success, winning the title in his first season at the club, and finishing as their top scorer as they won the league again in 2010/11. Now at Fulham, he managed 15 goals last year, and is still very much one of the most enjoyable players in England to watch. It is a shame to see him playing at a mid-table side without as much quality around him, but he can still light up a game all by himself.
37. Olivier Giroud (Arsenal)
Given Arsenal’s recent record of signing attackers from the French league, many were waiting for Olivier Giroud to flop like Marouane Chamakh and Gervinho, but the former Montpellier man looks the real deal. After a slow start, the Frenchman found real form upfront for the Gunners, and contributed an excellent 17 goals and 10 assists in his first season with the club. More will be expected of him this time round, but if his pre-season form is anything to go by, he could truly establish himself as a Premier League star this season, and hopefully help Arsenal end their long wait for silverware.
36. Bacary Sagna (Arsenal)
A great all-round full-back, Bacary Sagna has been Mr Reliable for Arsenal ever since signing from Auxerre in 2007. For just £7million, he is another one of Arsene Wenger’s great finds, and he looks like staying at the club despite recent speculation over his future. He has shown great versatility in playing as a centre-back for much of pre-season, and could shine in this new role for the Gunners this season. Aside from his defensive qualities and work-rate, he can get forward to good effect and find strikers with a cross.
35. Glen Johnson (Liverpool)
Perhaps one of the best and most skillful attacking full-backs in the game, Glen Johnson has become a key performer for Liverpool since joining from Portsmouth in 2009. Often one of Liverpool’s most dangerous attacking outlets, Johnson gets forward to great effect, and is very capable with either foot at playing others in or having a shot on goal himself, scoring the occasional screamer and contributing good numbers in goals and assists. He also has 49 caps for England, despite plenty of quality opposition for the right-back slot over the years.
34. Ashley Cole (Chelsea)
Although something of a firey character off the pitch, Ashley Cole is arguably one of the finest full-backs this country has ever produced, and has won all there is to win in the game in a highly successful career with both Arsenal and Chelsea. Now 32, he is into his twilight years, but still a key performer for Chelsea and England, recently gaining a remarkable 100th cap for his country and becoming England’s most-capped full-back of all time. One of the best players in the country for a long time now, and still up there as a world class talent today.
33. Yohan Cabaye (Newcastle)
Yohan Cabaye could be set for a move away from the Premier League before the summer is over, but for now he has to go down as one of the best players in the country. The Frenchman arrived at Newcastle from Lille for just £4million in 2011, and his value has rocketed since then, with the likes of PSG prepared to pay around £20million for his services. Cabaye is a talented playmaker, with great vision, range of passing, and exceptional technique from free-kicks and long range shots. Arsenal and Manchester United have been strongly linked with him before, but a return to his native France currently looks the most likely next step for him, as he has clearly outgrown this struggling Newcastle side.
32. Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea)
After a superb season on loan at West Brom last year, Romelu Lukaku could finally get the chance to live up to his ‘next Drogba’ tag at Chelsea in 2013/14. The young Belgian has all the qualities to be a world class striker, with pace, strength, skill, and a great left foot. Lukaku was a handful for defences all around the country in his time at the Baggies last season, and looks like the ideal spearhead for an effective Jose Mourinho team. It was thought that he could go out on loan again this year, with plenty of clubs queuing up for him, but Mourinho seems keen to give him a chance at Stamford Bridge. With Fernando Torres and Demba Ba currently misfiring, Lukaku could be the perfect solution to the Blues’ striking problems.
31. Joe Hart (Manchester City)
Although 2012/13 was a difficult year for Joe Hart and Manchester City, the England number one is certainly up there with the best goalkeepers in the world. Few can boast such excellent reflexes and match-winning saves as Hart, and his winning mentality is there for all to see as well. Still only 26, he can keep improving and truly become the best ‘keeper in the country over the next few years, and his presence will be crucial if City go on to win more silverware.
30. Daniel Agger (Liverpool)
Daniel Agger has been an excellent performer for Liverpool, growing in stature every season since arriving as a youngster in 2006. As well as being a top defender, his ability to drive forward has made him a hit with the Anfield crowd, and has also seen him attract serious attention from Spanish giants Barcelona this summer. His future remains up in the air, and he is certainly a player capable of playing for the very best teams in the world.
29. Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal)
Few had heard of Laurent Koscielny when he first joined Arsenal in 2010, but he has fast become one of the Premier League’s best defenders. The Frenchman has everything a top centre half needs, and has produced some man-of-the-match displays in his time at the club, most notably against Lionel Messi in 2011, as well as scoring crucial winning goals to seal Champions League football for the club on the final days of the last two seasons. Treble winners Bayern Munich have shown interest in signing him this summer, but Arsenal will hope they can keep hold of this world class talent.
28. Leighton Baines (Everton)
Although Ashley Cole may be England’s best left-back of all time, Leighton Baines has arguably overtaken him in the last couple of seasons. The Everton man has been a fantastic attacking outlet for the Toffees, providing superb delivery from crosses and scoring the occasional stunning goal with his cultured left foot. Manchester United have been strongly linked with him all summer, and it seems only fair that he gets the chance to join a top club at some point in his career.
27. David Luiz (Chelsea)
This eccentric Brazilian may divide opinion defensively, but his all-round ability has made him a £40million target for Barcelona this summer. He has also been tipped as a future Brazil captain, and is generally popular with all his team mates at his club and for his country. He could improve on his defensive game, but he is still a valuable asset with his attacking ability, with some powerful long range efforts in his locker, and 7 goals in all competitions last season.
26. Vincent Kompany (Manchester City)
Manchester City’s inspirational captain and leader, Vincent Kompany is a breath of fresh air in the modern game. The Belgian is a top class defender, but is anything but the stereotypical arrogant celebrity footballer, always coming across very well in interviews and public appearances. He missed some of last season with injury, but will be a big boost for City this season if he can get back to his best and playing regularly.
25. Branislav Ivanovic (Chelsea)
Another Chelsea defender perhaps better known for his attacking contributions is Branislav Ivanovic. The Serbian has been a great signing for the Blues, looking like a solid and reliable player from the day he joined, and in recent seasons he has added an excellent range of goals to his game. Whether playing at centre-back or right-back, Ivanovic can get forward either to head home a set piece, or to race on to a through-ball from a team-mate to slot home with all the coolness of a top striker. He had also been linked with Barcelona this summer, but Chelsea would not want to see such a top player leave.
24. Jack Wilshere (Arsenal)
One of the highlights of last season for Arsenal fans was the much-anticipated return from injury of Jack Wilshere. One of England’s best young talents, the midfielder spent a year on the sidelines just as he had made his first-team breakthrough for the Gunners. With his composure and skill on the ball, Wilshere is very much in the Xavi and Iniesta mould, and looks like England’s best answer to tiki-taka football. Neutrals all over the country will be hoping he can continue to stay injury free and progress further this season, ideally adding more goals to his game as well.
23. David de Gea (Manchester United)
There were some doubts over young Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea when he first arrived at Manchester United in 2011, but he has surely won over his doubters now. The talented shot-stopper has improved a great deal over the last year, and played a big part in United’s title win in 2012/13.
22. Lukas Podolski (Arsenal)
Seen by many as a direct replacement for Robin van Persie, Lukas Podolski had big boots to fill immediately upon joining Arsenal. However, the German has found his own role in the team and had an excellent first season on the left wing, providing 16 goals and 11 assists. He has certainly shown enough that his second season in England should be a very good one indeed.
21. Oscar (Chelsea)
One of the brightest young talents in the game, Brazilian attacker Oscar looks to have a very bright future at Stamford Bridge. The Chelsea starlet managed 12 goals and 13 assists in his first season with the club, including some stunning individual strikes against Juventus and Shakhtar Donetsk. Blessed with great feet and technique, Oscar looks like a typically naturally gifted Brazilian, and a great investment by the Blues.
20. Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
Despite some bad luck with injuries over the last few years, Steven Gerrard has shown he’s still got it, and enjoyed something of a revival last season. The legendary midfielder has flourished under the attacking style of Brendan Rodgers, and could still be the driving force that gets Liverpool back to glory. While the likes of Xabi Alonso and Fernando Torres have been and gone, and Luis Suarez tries to force a move away from Anfield, Gerrard has remained loyal to his boyhood club, and will surely go down as one of the Premier League’s best ever players.
19. Ramires (Chelsea)
Another of the Brazilian contingent at Chelsea, midfielder Ramires has become an extremely influential player in the Blues’ midfield. An all-round box-to-box player, Ramires is strong in the challenge, skillful on the ball, and good at breaking forward to score some important goals. He has famously netted in the FA Cup final and a beauty away to Barcelona, and looks very much like becoming a Chelsea legend in the making, as well as a key player for the Brazilian national team.
18. David Silva (Manchester City)
Part of this fantastic generation of Spanish players, David Silva is a joy to watch on his day. Fatigue has got him down a little in recent months, and he was not at his brilliant best last season, but he is capable of controlling a game like few others can, and will hopefully get City ticking again this year.
17. Theo Walcott (Arsenal)
Theo Walcott was a vastly improved player last season, finally showing Arsenal fans why Arsene Wenger was patient with him for so long. The pacey winger played upfront a little more often in 2012/13, and showed clinical form to finish as the club’s top scorer with 21 goals, as well as weighing in with 14 assists. Hopefully he has now found the confidence and consistency to be the top class talent he has looked like becoming for so long.
16. Marouane Fellaini (Everton)
One of the most surprising things about this summer is that Marouane Fellaini is still an Everton player. The big Belgian had a storming season in 2012/13, enjoying a more advanced role in David Moyes’ midfield. With Moyes moving to Manchester United, the 25-year-old has been strongly linked with following his old boss to Old Trafford, but so far a move hasn’t materialised. Arsenal have also shown a strong interest in the player, who must surely be valued at close to £30million now. His physical presence and eye for goal make him a nightmare for defenders, and he would fit in nicely at any top side.
15. Coutinho (Liverpool)
Along with Daniel Sturridge, another great piece of business done by Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers in January. Brazilian Coutinho arrived from Inter Milan for just £8.5million, and after a promising start to life in England, big things are expected of him this season. In just 13 games, the youngster managed 3 goals and 7 assists, and added noticeable quality to the Reds’ midfield. One of the brightest young talents in the game, without a doubt.
14. Christian Benteke (Aston Villa)
What a debut season it was for Christian Benteke. The young Belgian arrived at Aston Villa from Genk for just £7million, and before long he was one of the stars of the Premier League, single-handedly keeping Paul Lambert’s side from relegation with 23 goals. A strong and pacey striker, Benteke bullies defenders all around the country with ease, and will be a force to be reckoned with again this year.
13. Michu (Swansea)
The bargain of last summer, without question. Swansea signed Michu for just £2million from Rayo Vallecano, and the attacking midfielder was quickly converted to a striker due to his excellent composure in front of goal. The Spaniard finished with 22 goals in all competitions and helped the Swans to glory in the Capital One Cup, scoring in the final as well as a crucial opener in the semi-final away to favourites Chelsea. Surprisingly little interest has been shown in the 27-year-old this summer, but if he has another season like his first then he surely won’t be at Swansea for much longer, and could give himself a chance of a Spain call-up as well.
12. Eden Hazard (Chelsea)
Eden Hazard certainly lived up to his hype as one of the best young talents in the world in his first season at Chelsea. The Belgian arrived with a big reputation, and by the end of the season he was a PFA Young Player of the Year candidate. This skillful attacker slotted in perfectly alongside Juan Mata and Oscar in Chelsea’s attacking midfield three, and will only get better as time goes on.
11. Yaya Toure (Manchester City)
In full flow, Yaya Toure is a force to be reckoned with. The Manchester City midfielder has the perfect combination of physique and skill, driving forward to great effect and scoring some important goals for the club. Considering his success in the Premier League, it is hard to understand why Barcelona didn’t hold on to him.
10. Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham)
A top quality defender, Jan Vertonghen had an excellent debut season in English football with Tottenham. Another of this immensely talented generation of Belgians, the 26-year-old looks equally comfortable at centre-back and left-back, and also got forward to score 7 goals last year, showing all the technique and versatility that has made his former club Ajax famous for their ‘total football’.
9. Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)
Although much of this summer has been spent focusing on Wayne Rooney’s future, he is still a Premier League great for his achievements with Manchester United. He may be a difficult character, and he has not coped well with playing second fiddle to Robin van Persie, but at his best he has provided fans with some of English football’s finest moments in recent history. He could benefit from a move to Chelsea, where he would get more of a chance to play in his preferred central striker position, but it would also be good to see him get his act together at United, as he is a player whose quality is befitting of one of England’s most successful clubs.
8. Petr Cech (Chelsea)
Perhaps the best goalkeeper in the world, Petr Cech has become a legendary figure at Chelsea since joining as a youngster all those years ago. The Czech Republic international has won as many points for Chelsea as all of the top attacking talent they’ve had over the years, and could enjoy even more clean sheets this season with the return of Jose Mourinho, who will look to tighten up the defence in front of him and provide him with more protection than some of the club’s more attack-minded recent managers have done.
7. Sergio Aguero (Manchester City)
Scorer of one of the most memorable Premier League goals of all time, Sergio Aguero was an instant hit with Manchester City when he joined in 2011. The Argentine is a world class finisher, slotting the ball past goalkeepers with uncanny ease on a regular basis. Injuries disrupted his progress last season, but one would expect him to set the Premier League alight again this year, even with the arrivals of new strikers Alvaro Negredo and Stevan Jovetic.
6. Frank Lampard (Chelsea)
A Chelsea legend, and one of the best goal-scoring midfielders this country has seen. Quite simply, Frank Lampard is a Premier League great, and is still up there with the top scorers even at the age of 35. Whether it’s late arrivals into the penalty box, or long range screamers, Lampard has provided Chelsea fans with 203 great goals, making him the top scorer in the club’s history. His fine form towards the end of last season helped the Blues to 3rd place and earned him a one-year extension to his contract. It was under Jose Mourinho that he first became a world class talent, and it will be exciting to see the two work together again this season.
5. Santi Cazorla (Arsenal)
A fantastic signing by Arsenal, Santi Cazorla is already one of the best players in this league after just one season. The skillful Spaniard settled quickly in England, earning numerous plaudits for his individual ability even as Arsenal struggled with results in the early games of the season. Cazorla finished the season with an excellent 12 goals and 14 assists, and provided Arsenal fans with some moments of true quality. If the Gunners are to win anything this year, Cazorla looks the player most likely to provide the magic they’ll need.
4. Juan Mata (Chelsea)
Another great Spanish playmaker to grace the Premier League is Chelsea’s Juan Mata. With a phenomenal record of 20 goals and 35 assists in all competitions last season, the former Valencia man has to go down as one of the best attacking players in the world. Bizarrely, rumours circulated earlier this summer that Jose Mourinho would be willing to sell the Spaniard to Barcelona, and though the prospect of him linking up with Lionel Messi would be something special, it is the Premier League’s gain that he will remain in England.
3. Luis Suarez (Liverpool)
Luis Suarez’s tremendous ability is often overshadowed by his disciplinary problems and antics, both on and off the pitch. The Uruguayan forward is currently trying to force a move away from Liverpool, and is certainly capable of playing for almost any team in the world. He had his best season yet in England last year, scoring 30 goals in all competitions, and is a joy to watch when he isn’t involved in controversy and is simply enjoying his football. Liverpool fans will be disappointed in how he has ended his time with the club, but he provided them with some great moments of individual quality last season.
2. Gareth Bale (Tottenham)
Tottenham’s Welsh wing wizard could become the most expensive player of all time this summer if Real Madrid are successful in luring him away from White Hart Lane. Gareth Bale may not be worth £100million or the other crazy prices being quoted, but he is a superb talent and many will argue he is deserving of first place on this list. The 24-year-old can win games on his own with his superb solo efforts, and was close to sealing fourth place for Spurs all by himself last season. Almost every goal he scores is a goal-of-the-season contender, and while it would be a shame for the Premier League to lose him, the prospect of him playing alongside the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid is equally mouth-watering.
1. Robin van Persie (Manchester United)
Robin van Persie has finally shown what a world class player he can be after a few years free of injury. The former Arsenal man made the controversial move to rivals Manchester United last summer, but has quickly earned himself legendary status at Old Trafford with some sensational displays to lead them to their 20th title. The Dutchman scored one of the goals of the season against Aston Villa, when his superb hat-trick confirmed the title for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side. After two goals in the Community Shield at the weekend, he looks very much like the player to watch this year as well.