Wednesday 27 March 2013

Top 50 Best Current Premier League Players

Premier League LogoWith a fair mention for those with less glamourous sides here is a collection of the best talents currently plying their trade in the English top tier.



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Holtby Training

50 – Lewis Holtby, Tottenham Hotspur

Fans of the Bundesliga will know all about Holtby and what he can do. The highly rated attacking midfielder has already settled into the Spurs squad and is expected to push on a gear next season to become on of the league's best players.

Brede Hangeland Fulham

49 – Brede Hangeland, Fulham

The much-coveted Norwegian is still going strong in West London, and the club will need to get a move on over a new contract if they want to keep the defensive colossus. He's frighteningly good in the air as well as adding a touch of class with the ball at his feet.

Soccer - Barclays Premier League - Arsenal v Blackburn Rovers - Emirates Stadium

48 – Alex Oxlaide-Chamberlain, Arsenal

'The Ox' has been impressive, when called upon, this season with his tricky footwork and direct running, despite not getting as much playing time as the Gunners fans would like. He's earned the trust of England Boss, Roy Hodgson already and looks set to play a major role next term.

Johnson Hart

47 – Joe Hart, Manchester City

Hart has somehow managed to continue his development into one of the best 'keepers in the league at a club not renowned for it's youth policy. He's becoming more flamboyant, but still as dependable as ever.

Bacary Sagna PSG

46 – Bacary Sagna, Aresenal

Quietly goes about his business (despite the crazy hairstyle) and has become one of Arsenal's most dependable players. Power, pace and a touch of class, deserves to win something with the club.



Dembele Lyon

45 – Moussa Dembele, Tottenham Hotspur

Big, powerful and with bags of technical ability. Can play as a centre midfielder or in the hole behind the forwards. Spurs acted quickly to land him and he's quickly become a key member of the side.

Berbatov Goal

44 – Dimitar Berbatov, Fulham

Classy and continental, if football was a woman she'd be in bed right now waiting for the Bulgarian to come and join in. His final season at United may have been a disappointment but he's proved that he can still compete with the best of them in West London.

Ben Arfa Goal

43 – Haten Ben Arfa, Newcastle United

The potential is still there for him to hit the heights many touted for him to reach whilst at Marseille. Sadly, though, since joining Newcastle he's seen his career stutter thanks to a number of injuries. When fit, he can be the most devastatingly talented player in the division with a fearless dribbling ability and a rocket of a shot.

Glen Johnson Liverpool

42 – Glen Johnson, Liverpool

Full-back who is dependable in defence and a big weapon when on the attack, has become more and more consistent as his Liverpool career has progressed.

De Gea Celebrate

41 – David De Gea, Manchester United

He may attract criticism from time to time (donut theft aside) but it takes a lot for someone so young to handle the pressure of being the first choice goalkeeper at the biggest club in the country. Blessed with impressive athleticism, he'll get much better as the seasons go on.



Soccer - Barclays Premier League - Manchester United v Queens Park Rangers - Old Trafford

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.

Jagielka Future

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.

Dempsey Man United

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.

Lukaku sunderland

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.

Welbeck Liverpool

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.



FBL-EUR-C1-BORUSSIA-DORTMUND-MANCHESTER-CITY

35 – Matija Nastasic, Manchester City

The classy Serb has settled well into proceedings at City and continues to impress with performances that belie his tender age. He's already ousted Joleon Lescott and Kolo Toure out of a starrting spot lately and can probably expect to be a first choice pick next season.

Thomas Vermaelen

34 – Thomas Vermaelen, Arsenal

Belgian hasn't been as consistent as in previous campaigns, perhaps suffering from the pressure of being the Gunners skipper, but the adaptable defender is still one of the best players in the English top tier.

Walcott Chelsea January

33 – Theo Walcott, Arsenal

Perhaps hasn't fulfilled the potential that so many expected of him but there is still time to become one of the best players in the division. A frightening turn of pace and an eye for goal, many are still unsure as to what his best position actually is.

Sturridge Suarez

32 – Daniel Sturridge, Liverpool

The 23-year-old is currently taking strides into resurrecting his career at Liverpool following his failure to make a starting spot at Chelsea his own. With four goals in six games under Brendan Rodgers' tutelage he's rediscovered the brash confidence that made him such a threat at Bolton in 2011.

Cleverley Newcastle united

31 – Tom Cleverley, Manchester United

Now in his breakthrough season at Old Trafford after developing his abilities in a series of loan spells away from the club. He's become a first team regular for club and country and surely has a big, successful career ahead of him.



Tiote Arsenal

30 – Cheick Tiote, Newcastle United

They say every team needs a great lump roving around the midfield ready to knock seven bells out of anyone in striking distance, and in Tiote, Newcastle have theirs. Said to be attracting interest from the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United he's quickly become one of the hottest properties in the league.

Demba Southampton

29 – Demba Ba, Chelsea

Senegal international secured a move to Chelsea and started his Blues career brightly and has perhaps gone off the boil a tad. However the former Newcastle United man can be relied upon to deliver the goods over the course of a season.

Evans Everton

28 - Johnny Evans, Man United

Man United's record this term with the Northern Irishman in their back four is nearly 100%, such is the step up in the young defender's form this season. Sir Alex Ferguson has shown great faith in the centre-back who is now ahead of all other options in the Scot's Old Trafford squad.

David Luiz Goal

27 – David Luiz, Chelsea

A popular figure both on and off the pitch, he's managed to form a strong understanding alongside John Terry in the heart of the Chelsea backline. Also able to move forward into a defensive midfield role, he proved invaluable through his versatility as well as his performances.

Arteta Pen

26 – Mikel Arteta, Arsenal

One of Arsene Wenger's better signings as of late. The Spaniard has been sounded out over the possibility of playing for England having been overlooked for his native side. Not that he'd look out of place in the Spain side, a great footballing brain and the skills to match.



Benteke Swindon

25 – Christian Benteke, Aston Villa

Many Villa fans could be forgiven for asking; 'Who?' when Paul Lambert's big summer signing was announced as Christian Benteke.

The 6'3 striker had an impressive strike rate back in his native Belgium despite his tender years and he held all of the physical attributes that suggested that he'd be a quality signing.

His form has attracted a lot of interest, 17 goals in all competitions, and it is thought that he will cost up to three times as much than the £7 million that Villa paid for him. Not that the club have to sell, he is at the start of a three year deal and it would suit him to stay at Villa Park for another season to continue his rapid development.

Cabaye Barcelona

24 – Yohan Cabaye, Newcastle United

The Frenchman arrived from Lille with lofty expectations; only nobody ever imagined just how crucial he would be to the Toon Army. When he is not in the side, they struggle, and hen he is, they don't. His passing range is nothing short of phenomenal and he can shoot from distance with the greatest accuracy.

Oscar Shakhtar

23 - Oscar, Chelsea

Crafty Brazilian has made an instant impact in the English top tier and is perhaps one of the most technically proficient players in world football. He is also deceptively strong given his slight build and a player who Blues fans hope will grow into a club legend.

Vincent Kompany Manchester City

22 – Vincent Kompany, Manchester City

Despite seeing his campaign marred by injuries, the 26-year-old is still a formidable competitor when available. It's easy to forget that he's been with City for five years now as he has blended into the everyday fabric of the division.

Vertonghen Swansea City

21 – Jan Vertonghen, Tottenham Hotspur

Belgian players are very En Vogue at the moment and Vertonghen is no different. Proving that he one of the best left-backs in the Premier League with his tough tackling and intelligent positional strength coupled with his marauding runs forward. He's also more than comfortable in the centre of defence too.



Jordan Hendeson Liverpool Zabaleta Man City

20 – Pablo Zabaleta, Manchester City

Argentine has been Man City's most reliable performer in what has been a tricky season for the Premier League title holders. Never say die attitude has made him a fan's favourite.

Wilshere Deal

19 – Jack Wilshire, Arsenal

The 21-year-old has coped well with the expectations thrust upon him at The Emirates as well as making a strong recovery from a string of bad injuries. Has everything in his locker, he could be the finest midfielder this country has ever produced should he continue in the same manner.

18 – Marouane Fellaini, Everton

Brought in for a big fee and expected to leave for an even bigger fee as links with Chelsea refuse to go away. And should he move on he'll leave a huge hole in the middle of the Everton pitch, as he's been instrumental in establishing Everton as a consistent top six side.

Tevez Swansea City

17 – Carlos Tevez, Manchester City

He may not be having the best of times at the club, but on the pitch he's still an incredibly valuable commodity. Rumoured to be seeking a return to Argentina over the summer, City will miss his finishing and tireless running should he head for the exit.

Ashley Cole

16 – Ashley Cole, Chelsea

Still one of the best left-backs in the country, he doesn't seem to be showing any signs of slowing down at the ripe old age of 31. Now on over 100 caps for England he looks set to continue putting in award winning performances for a few more years yet.



Hazard West Ham

15 – Eden Hazard, Chelsea

The highly anticipated summer signing had been tearing Ligue 1 up for several seasons with Lille. Shown what he can do in glimpses this season, he's been used as an impact sub as much as he's been used as a started. Undoubtedly a fine talent, he's needed a little longer to adapt to the physicality of the Premier League.

Baines Chelsea

14 – Leighton Baines, Everton

The left-back has seen his stock rise considerably this season. Not only does he posses a lethal cross and a pinpoint accurate free kick, he's proved that he is a more than capable deputy for Ashley Cole for the national team.

Gerrard Goal

13 – Steven Gerrard, Liverpool

Even at 32 years of age he plays with the energy and enthusiasm of somebody ten years younger and his leadership skills have never been stronger.

Currently overseeing a transitional period at Liverpool, Gerrard will be hoping to get the club back on track and challenging for honours before he finally hangs up his boots.

A virtual ever present in the league this season, he has bounced back from a disappointing and injury ravaged season last year. His presence has been invaluable to the swathe of young stars trying to overhaul the side's fortunes, and with cohort, Jamie Carragher retiring at the end of the season his influence will be greater than ever.

He has won everything there is to win at Liverpool bar the league title, and though that may not change any time in the near future, he can still look to add some more silverware to his trophy cabinet over the coming seasons.

Only Juan Mata has produced more assists than the England skipper.

MIchael Carrick

12 - Michael Carrick, Man United

Always dependable, probably the first name on Sir Alex Ferguson's team-sheet and a pendulum like presence in the centre of the park that has been a pivotal part of Man United's cake-walk to the Premier League title.

Silva Fulham

11 - David Silva, Man City

Spaniard hasn't had as spectacular a season as last term but is still without doubt one of the most stylish attacking players in the Premier League. Capable of unlocking defences in the blink of an eye.



Michu WEst Ham

10 – Michu, Swansea City

In modern football, the general rule of thumb is that if you want goals then you have to spend big. This summer Swansea not only disproved that theory but also laughed in it's face at the same time.

When Michael Laudrup arrived at the club he quickly identified the need for a new striker capable of fitting into his philosophy that won't break the bank to acquire.

With the club's limited funds he turned to Spanish side Rayo Vallecano where he was able to pick up a striker who had scored 15 goals for just £2 million.

Michu's class was evident before he'd even joined – to score 15 goals a season for a small side in Spain was impressive to say the least and he's carried on that good form for the South Wales side.

Beginning his career at the now fan owned Real Oviedo he spent five frustrating seasons with Celta Vigo before joining up with the Madrid based club.

He's since spelled out his desire to stay at Swansea, suggesting that he's not only happy at the club, but keen to stay on and build on this season's success. Something that is becoming a rarity in football these days.

Cazorla Reading

9 – Santi Cazorla, Arsenal

Many of Arsene Wenger's signings have come under scrutiny lately, but one nobody mentions in that bracket is Cazorla. Fending off interest from all over Europe, the club have a winger who can not only terrorise the opposition but chip in with his fair share of goals too.

Rooney West Ham

8 – Wayne Rooney, Manchester United

The England man may have been quieter than usual this season but he remains a vital cog in the Manchester United machine. Rumours of his departure in the summer continue to persist but it's hard to imagine where he'd flourish as much as he's allowed to now.

Lampard Exit

7 – Frank Lampard, Chelsea

There is no surprise in the anger and confusion that Chelsea fans have expressed over the club's decision to not offer the 34-year-old a new contract.

Like Gerrard, despite being the wrong side of 30 he is still a strong competitor at the top level and looks as though he could continue that form for another few seasons yet.

With 14 goals in 37 games he has a record that can stand proudly next to those of his peak.

If Chelsea still decides to not offer him a contract extension it is thought that the MLS will be his most likely destination, and while many may sneer at that, the standard of football in the USA is very high. Lampard still has the necessary ingredients to take the country by storm and enjoy an Indian summer before calling time on an impressive career.

Manchester City's Yaya Toure celebrates scoring the first goal

6 - Yaya Toure, Manchester City

Busting midfielder with incredible stature, turn of pace and an eye for goal. Has recently been linked with a demand to receive a new deal or he will walk, Roberto Mancini must give the Ivory Coast international what he wants as he can't afford to lose him.



Mata Norwich City

5 – Juan Mata, Chelsea

It's not often you come across a world class footballer with a journalism degree and an advertising degree in the works, but Chelsea's Juan Mata has it all.

After making a name for himself at Valencia, the West London club made no bones about forking out the €28 million to bring him to Stamford Bridge.

A good first season has been followed by an even better one, as he is now, without doubt, the best attacker at the club.

His quiet nature belies his fierce competitiveness and it is that determination that has seen him break into the Spanish national side.

At 24, he still has youth on his side to improve and add more honours to his ever-growing list.



Aguero Barcelona

4 - Sergio Aguero, Manchester City

Outrageous skill and ability aside, Aguero has an incredible strike rate for Manchester City. Since joining in 2011 he has notched 43 goals in 79 games, and though this season has been comparatively quiet, he's still bagged a healthy number of goals to keep the club challenging for the title.

Another in a long line of 'Next Maradona's' his style is more like that of Romario's. He holds the same charging running style as the former Brazilian forward and he couples this with sublime ball control and of course, a keen eye for goal.

Unlike his compatriot, Tevez, he seems more settled in Manchester and doesn't look to be jumping ship anytime soon.

He is widely regarded as one of the best players in the world, with international teammate Lionel Messi saying; "he possesses immense power, strength and an incredible work ethic."



Suarez Juventus

3 – Luis Suarez, Liverpool

He may not be at the top of many people's Christmas card list, but there's no denying that he has been one of the Premier League's outstanding performers this season.

As Liverpool continue to rebuild and reshape, Suarez, along with Gerrard, has been the one player that they can count on to change a game.

No stranger to controversy, many feel that his ability to find trouble hinders his image as on of the most dangerous players in the world and it is often too easy to forget just how good he really is.

Signing for Liverpool for £22.8 million in 2010, he has managed to bag 50 goals in 92 games as well as wracking up 23 assists.

Tricky, direct and with bags of technical ability, it's clear why the links with Barcelona and Real Madrid refuse to go away.



Van Persie Shirt

2 – Robin Van Persie, Manchester United

It's no wonder that Arsenal have struggled this season.

When you sell a player of Van Persie's calibre you'd better have a replacement lined up, though that's easier said than done, as the Dutchman is one in a million.

Originally a winger who based his game around cutting inside, he's slowly been moved into a centre-forward role during his time in North London and he has used this experience to fire in the goals to walk Manchester United to the title this season

23 goals in 33 games for £23 million sounds like a snip when you see it on paper and the 29-year-old offers much more than just goals.

Also able to drop deeper into the hole, he can use his expert positional sense and impressive passing range to pick out his strike partners as well as create chance for himself.

Always one to try and score from distance, he possesses an incredible delivery from set pieces and can be good in the air too.

Many have questioned his ability to play with Wayne Rooney this year, but between the two of them they have scored 39 goals between them.



Bale Man United

1 - Gareth Bale, Tottenham Hotspur

There are no more superlatives left to describe Gareth Bale.

Week in and week out we see what a special talent he is and he is now so highly regarded that he is being mentioned on a par with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

He suffered during his early days at Spurs and was the butt of several jokes after the club had paid so much for his services without seeing him play much first team football at Southampton.

But people aren't laughing anymore as his ability has taken on frightening levels of consistency.

Originally a left-back, he now operates as a winger because of his incredible speed and dribbling. He runs like a charging rugby player, but has the presence of mind to find an inch of space with deft touches and a fearless drive to the touchline.

He doesn't just do it for Spurs either, Wales can attribute their recent victories over Scotland and Austria to the 23-year-old, proving that he is the latest in a long line of world class Welsh footballers who probably won't get to go to a major tournament because the rest of the squad are nowhere near as good.

Spurs are lucky because they know only clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City and PSG would be able to afford him, and even then, he is happy in London and would probably turn down their advances.

Bale has the make up to be the best player in the world, but it is vital that Spurs make it to the Champions League in order for him to showcase his credentials and test himself against Europe's elite.


~CaughtOffside » Chelsea FC~
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