Mosope Ominiyi: (4-1-3-2) - De Gea, Azpilicueta, Koscielny, Terry, Clyne, Matic, Cazorla, Alexis, Hazard, Aguero, Kane.
This season has had everything; memorable moments, stunning goals, excellent saves, dramatic events, controversial incidents, and at the end of it, Chelsea have been crowned champions. The league gets even more competitive year-upon-year, and I have no doubt that it'll follow the same trend for the 2015-16 season. There have been a few standout performers, of which unfortunately did not get into my team, but most will get a notable mention at some stage. Without further ado, here is my Team of the Season.
So first, I have to go with David de Gea in goal. The Manchester United shot-stopper has been one of Louis van Gaal's shining lights in an otherwise inconsistent season, despite the fact they've finished in the top four. Although United's backline is often shaky at times, the Spaniard is the one that keeps it stable - keeping his side in matches they shouldn't have won in essence, including saves against Arsenal and Everton (both home). The 24-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to La Liga giants Real Madrid this summer, and even if he doesn't leave in the upcoming window, you just get the feeling he'll be snapped up in a year or two, especially with the constant criticism of Íker Casillas at the moment. Although I personally do not think he's the best goalkeeper in the league, with Thibaut Courtois and Hugo Lloris more superior in terms of quality, he's been the best performer in terms of contribution to the team, because without him, United wouldn't have even finished in the top six, let alone top four.
Moving on to my back-four. At left-back, I'm going with Cesar Azpilicueta. The Spaniard is extremely under-rated and has enjoyed a stellar season with the Blues, winning his first PL title since his move from Marseille three years ago. He's been playing consistently well and has forced Filipe Luis, who they signed for £18million last summer, out of the team. His defensive contribution as well as his tendency to go forward and create chances out of nothing are just a few of the top-quality attributes that he possesses.
My centre-back pairing, I'm picking Laurent Koscielny and John Terry. The former may seem a surprise because the likes of Jose Fonté have pipped him in the media's TOTS, but the experienced Frenchman has enjoyed another consistent campaign in the red of Arsenal, and is the brick wall in defence that they've needed for a seriously long time... He's proven to be much better than Per Mertesacker in terms of his importance to the side, and his defensive qualities as well as his no-nonsense attitude makes him a favourite with the fans. Arsenal have only conceded 35 goals this season, the least they've tallied in the past eight years, and I feel Kosc is integral to just that. His pace helps him catch up to opposing strikers, and his tackling strength and agility is a menace for all to see.
John Terry, 34. If you'd told me at the start of the season that the Englishman would be in my Team of the Season, I'd have been extremely skeptical, not only because of his age but due to the fact that Chelsea have a lot of promising youngsters, not least defenders (Kurt Zouma, Jake Clarke-Salter, Nathan Aké etc) coming through the ranks and JT would have to be on his toes and stay consistent if he wanted to keep his first-team place. He's done just that for the Blues during the campaign, and has been an impressive figure for team-mates to look up to, their captain as well as their leader. He's also racked up a few important goals too, which also helps his cause. Whether he can continue to replicate his robust displays, remains to be seen over the next year or so, but he gets a deserving spot in the team.
Moving onto my right-back, Nathaniel Clyne. He's another one, similiar to de Gea, being heavily linked with a move elsewhere, and ironically, it's to Manchester United. It's no surprise really, given his performances throughout the season. Over the past three or four weeks, he's been slightly quiet going forward and defensively the team have suffered against teams with a point to prove (e.g. Leicester), but that's to be expected with the season drawing to a close and teams desperate to stake their claim for the future. Clyne's a man with a point to prove - trying to show he's one of the best full-backs in the league, and he's done so impressively. His lung-busting runs through opposing defences and his general defensive contribution is quite solid to be fair, which is not the case for most full-backs in the modern game, it must be said. Hopefully he makes the right decision regarding his future, because no-one likes to see someone of Clyne's potential going to waste.
Midfielders. It wouldn't be complete without Nemanja Matic in there, somewhere. The big Serbian is the shield between defence and midfield for Chelsea, and although the majority of the plaudits go to Hazard & Fábregas (the latter not included in my team, sorry), the defensive midfielder has had an awe-inspiring contribution to the Blues. Making numerous interceptions, tackles, blocks, clearances galore, and he makes it look so easy. European clubs would kill for a player like him amongst their ranks because he makes everyone else's jobs just that little bit easier.
Santi Cazorla. Perhaps another surprise pick in the team, but Santi has been one of Arsenal's best players this season, despite having had a barren spell of inconsistency over the past two or three games, he is fully deserving of a place in my team. His importance is reiterated by that excellent performance against Manchester City earlier on in the season, absolutely superb display. He was first opting as a winger, then wanted to play in a more attacking role, as a CAM, but there was not enough space for him, so he sat back in a CM role, and then he partnered Francis Coquelin (he would have been in the team, if only they hadn't loaned him out...) in a more defensive midfield role. Not only did he play at CDM, which was initially a surprise to everyone given his size and assumptions over his strength, but he was doing well too. His agility and pace helped him, as well as his neat piece of flair and flashes of brilliant skill which he often shows game-by-game. He's one of the only attack-minded players I know that can do a defensive job, do it well, and make the role his own. For that reason, as well as the fact he creates chances galore, he slots into midfield for me this season.
Alexis Sánchez. In my opinion, yes I'm an Arsenal fan, but honestly I'm neutral... Player of the Season. Alexis has scored 24 goals in all competitions, broken many records and eclipsed so many already, which is remarkable given it's his first season in England too. I think, although Hazard has been heralded as the best player this season, with all these accolades, it's unfair to neglect the electrifying Chilean because he's been an absolutely fantastic signing for the Gunners. He was signed from Barcelona for £30m back in July of last year, and I'll remember that day forever. The transfer fee looks more and more of a bargain, especially in this inflated market, every game he plays because he brings so much to the team, it's hard to comprehend the fact he even plays for the Gunners! His tireless work-rate, non-stop energy, blistering pace, never-say-die attitude, goal-scoring ability (which for a winger, is quite something), quality to pick out passes and create chances out of the blue and the fact he's unselfish are just a few qualities which make him stand out from the rest in the league. I cannot wait to see what's in store for the not-too-distant future with Alexis.
...and now we go onto Hazard. *sighs* don't get me wrong when I say this, I like Eden. I do, it's just the comparisons between him and Alexis get me in a conflict of interest, perhaps in the same way as the Messi - Ronaldo debate. Anyways, that's for another day. It'd be unfair not to put him in the team, as the 24-year-old has enjoyed another impressive campaign with the Blues. As well as being notorious for scoring penalties, he's created the most chances in the league, which isn't an easy thing to do, as you'd imagine. He's so silky on the ball, quick to counter with it at his feet, and he loves to take defenders on, beating them with ease. My only criticism of him would be that although he's a very good player, I'm not sure whether he falls into the world-class category, because he's not particularly a big-game player, per say. Apart from that, he's been a great player, and although I don't personally agree with it, Eden deserves the Player of the Season award because he's been consistent throughout. Just not sure whether he deserves to be in the same bracket as Leo or Cristiano, mind.
The penultimate one, Harry Kane. "He's one of our own", the Spurs fans' chant every time he scores a goal. I first heard of him breaking into the team last July, around pre-season. He finally got his chance to prove himself in the Europa League, did well, Pochettino played him in the Premier League (didn't really have many other options, Soldado & Adebayor aren't exactly the best, are they?) and he took his chance well. He's been racking up the goals ever since, and despite going on a 500-minute goal-drought, ended last weekend, the Englishman deserves his spot in my team. Yes, he's English *over-rated klaxon* - but it's not his fault if he's being overhyped, especially given his ever-growing potential. He deserves his place in my team not only because he scores goals, but if you watch him closely, he puts in the hard graft for the team overall too. Has been their best player, with only Lloris and Eriksen coming close to that.
And last but not least, Sergio Aguero. Neglected for the PFA Player of the Season awards, the Argentine has proven himself to be in the world-class bracket, and you're probably forgetting the fact that he and Alexis were both injured for around two months of the season - which is always hard to get back to your scintillating best. The Citzens' are lucky to have him in their team, not because of his goal-scoring tally, which obviously helps massively, but because he's just so good. 26 goals, Golden Boot winner, Sergio is another South American (just like Sánchez) who has proven their pedigree in more than one of Europe's top five leagues, and his overall importance to the City team cannot be overexaggerated at all, because without him, they wouldn't have even survived the Champions League, let alone qualify for it in the domestic season.
I must give credit to David Sílva who, regrettably, I did not pick for my TOTS. The partnership between himself & Aguero has been like bread and butter, the duo are the glue that holds City's attack together. Other notable admissions also go to Courtois, Lloris, Bertrand, Fonte, Fábregas, Sigurdsson & Costa.
Oliver Emmerson: (4-2-3-1) - Courtois, Ivanovic, Terry, Fonte, Bertrand, Matic, Cazorla, Sanchez, Coutinho, Hazard, Kane.
My Team of the Year is a fairly ordinary one, however I wouldn't be surprised with some disagreeing about a few decisions in-particular.
The first one is at the back, with my goalkeeping choice. Now, I know that David De Gea is a wonderful player. He's had a wonderful season between the sticks for Manchester United, and will fully deserve the Real Madrid move he is expected to make in the summer. But my pick goes to Thibaut Courtois. Brilliant goalkeepers breathe confidence into their defence, and that is exactly what Courtois has done this year. Chelsea have the best defence in England, if not in Europe and much of that must be attributed to this man. His constant willingness to produce in the big moments, David Nugent running through at Stamford Bridge, a heroic night at Anfield plus many more, he is a goalkeeper that will be one of the world's best for 10, if not 15 years.
The defence follows a similar Chelsea-like structure, with Branislav Ivanovic at right back, with John Terry next to him. Both have been written off by many due to a lack of speed in their older years, however put in consistently brilliant performances week after week this season. Across from Terry goes Jose Fonte, who has performed to a high standard once again in the Southampton defence. To keep with the club links, I would place Ryan Bertrand at left back. Many Liverpool fans were in disgust last summer when they were linked with the ex-Chelsea man, but the Reds may have missed a trick by not purchasing him. He's offered good support in both attack and defence for the Saints this season, as Ronaldo Koeman has taken them to new heights.
My team plays in a 4-2-3-1 formation, meaning a had a vast amount of options when choosing my midfielders. The defensive midfield choice has to go to Nemanja Matic, he's been far and away the best 'CDM' in the division, and was one of the first names on my teamsheet. The Serbian has broken up attacks before they began, and always picks the right pass as he looks to allow his more technical teammates to move forward. Most would play Matic alongside Cesc Fabregas, but I've plumped for Santi Cazorla. Arsenal's Spanish playmaker has been moved all over the pitch this season, putting in a high standard of performance in each of them, before finally anchoring himself in central midfield. Cazorla's range of passing has never looked better, and he's still managed to defend well whilst spearheading attacks. Fabregas had an excellent season, but drifted slightly towards the end, so Cazorla gets my pick for his consistency.
The wingers in my 11 are Alexis Sanchez and, Player of the Year, Eden Hazard. Both have wowed crowds with dazzling displays of skill and trickery all the way through the season, contributing goals and assists at the same time. I needn't say much more, as everyone will be aware of their talents. Those two are split by Liverpool's Philippe Coutinho, a shining light in a season of misery for those on Merseyside. The little Brazilian was one of few Liverpool players who never let the team down over the course of the campaign, and still managed to produce a good number of goals and assists despite having some poor quality around him.
Moving onto the final position, the striker. My formation means that I only have one pick for this position, and it obviously comes down to either Diego Costa, Harry Kane or Sergio Aguero. Going my goals, I would pick Aguero, however it is Kane that gets the nod for me. Aguero and Costa played in teams that finished in the top two, whilst Kane's Tottenham only came 5th. He had players of far less quality providing him with chances, yet still managed to win games single handedly for Spurs week after week. Taking the fact he only started playing in November into account, 21 Premier League goals in 28 games are some impressive stats, and that's why he gets my choice as the lone striker.
Charlie Malam: (4-2-2-2) - Courtois, Ivanovic, Terry, Cahill, Bertrand, Matic, Fabregas, Hazard, Sanchez, Kane, Aguero.
It's been an eventful season, full of surprises and shocks - from the rise of Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane and the surprising success of Southampton under Ronald Koeman, to Leicester City's miraculous survival to Charlie Adam lobbing Thibaut Courtois from 66-yards. Though you could argue there's been a drop in the overall quality of the league, it's more than fair to say that there's been plenty of talking points throughout a year which has been even more open than ever. More open everywhere but at the top of the table, that is, where Chelsea unsurprisingly dominated. Again unsurprisingly, it's the 2014-15 champions who dominate most of my team of the season, too. No wonder, given how impressive they were - holding the new record for most days spent at the top, with 274 days.
Starting off rather controversially, I've plucked for Thibaut Courtois in goal. Whilst David de Gea almost single-handedly helped Manchester United into the top-four, the Belgian's achievements have been swept under the carpet - despite his impressive inaugural year in England. Courtois took to the Premier League almost as easily as he gathers an aerial ball into his box. To restrict Petr Cech, a regular goalkeeper for the club for the last 11 years, to just six starts in the league is no mean feat. At the age of 23, the towering shot-stopper has been a crucial part of a La Liga winning Atletico Madrid side which also reached the UEFA Champions League final, and he's now just as crucial in a Premier League and Capital One Cup winning Chelsea side. To think that he made just one real high-profile error (vs. Hull) all season, in his first year in such a challenging league, is incredibly impressive - particularly given his age. And whilst De Gea's match-winning saves and performances stole the limelight, I honestly believe that the Chelsea goalkeeper is a better quality goalkeeper and it would come as no surprise to see him become the best in the world after Manuel Neuer, not just the best keeper in the Premier League. Keeping a clean sheet in 40.63% of his 32 games as opposed to the Spaniard's 27.03% in 37 is another stat that has gone under the radar, and another which just serves to show that whilst De Gea may be the peoples' choice - Courtois has had an equally fabulous season, if not an even better one.
As will become a running theme, at right-back, another Chelsea man - Branislav Ivanovic. One of only three of Jose Mourinho's side to start every single Premier League game and with an impressive four goals and five assists from right-back, the Serbian outperformed every other player in his position this season. Consistently impressive going forward and equally as capable in defending, Ivanovic is as crucial a component of Mourinho's side as ever - though his form began to tail off towards the end of the campaign. Southampton's Nathaniel Clyne runs Ivanovic close, but the 31-year-old's contributions to Chelsea's title triumph just about eclipses the young Englishman - and sees him into my Team of the Season.
At centre-back, a pair Ivanovic knows all too well - John Terry and Gary Cahill. There's a reason why Chelsea won the Premier League title - conceding just 32 goals all season, making them the best defence in the top-flight and the all-English duo of Terry and Cahill has been pivotal. The former, even at 34, remains the best defender in the league and alongside his compatriot, ensured a formidable back-line which allowed Mourinho to build a title-winning team off of. Call them as boring as you like, Chelsea's defence have been so, so good throughout 2014-15 and at a time where the art of defending is so underappreciated - the Blues' back-line are proving that the art is far from dead.
On the left, meanwhile, Ryan Bertrand. No-one expected the form that the Englishman brought with him to St Mary's, but on the opposite side of Clyne - has become one of the most reliable and consistent full-backs in the country. Fantastic defensively and increasingly improving in getting further up the pitch to influence matters, the 25-year-old is looking a sound investment after struggling for game-time at Chelsea. Another player central to a Southampton side who were the surprise package of 2014-15, finishing a club-record seventh in the league to achieve Europa League. It's difficult to leave the likes of Cesar Azpilicueta out, a player who manages to look the left-back role effortless despite the fact he started out on the right, but the way in which Bertrand has fit seamlessly into Luke Shaw's shoes on the south coast and will only continue to improve given his first-team berth means he takes the position this time around.
In midfield, Nemanja Matic's inclusion hardly needs justification. A few eyebrows were raised when Mourinho spent a large sum to prise the tough-tackling midfielder back to Stamford Bridge mid-way through last season, but the answer as to why has been clearly shown across the last 18 months. He has provided the perfect defensive midfield foundations for Chelsea's more creative options to wreak havoc. His work in-front of the defence has been as vital in Chelsea's title triumph as the defensive work of teammates Cahill, Terry, Ivanovic, Azpilicueta and more. Matic's form seemed to drop off after a suspension saw him miss the club's League Cup success, but he still managed to maintain an average of 3.6 tackles and two interceptions per game, in addition to his impressive pass completion average and in doing so, has become the Claude Makelele-like figure in Chelsea's batten-down-the-hatches style of play in the second-half of the season.
Jose Mourinho and quite a number of others in the Chelsea side benefitted from Matic's presence, none more so than Cesc Fabregas. Arsenal rejected the opportunity to bring him back last summer, and what a poor decision that looks in hindsight; regardless of Fabregas' mid-season slump. Finishing just shy of Thierry Henry's record of 20 assists in a campaign with 18, the Spanish international's impact lessened after Christmas - grabbing only five assists after a blistering 13 in the first-half of the campaign. Nevertheless, Fabregas sees himself into my Team of the Season for those first few months alone, where he ensured he was the Blues' meticulous midfield metronome. There's good reason why Chelsea supporters sing about Cesc wearing a magic hat.
For my sixth, and final, Chelsea representee - Eden Hazard. It'd be stupid to leave the Frenchman out after what has been his best year yet. Now at the age of 24, Hazard's 14 goals and nine assists, and his general aura and the threat he poses - was unbelievable important to the Premier League champions. He has been one of the hardest players to defend against, due to his ability with the ball at his feet and his direct runs and speed. But the PFA Player of the Year has also displayed extremely impressive creativity, notching 88 key passes throughout the course of the campaign and completing more successful dribbles in the top five leagues in Europe.
Arsenal's signature of Alexis Sanchez was met with joy in north London back in July 2014. The Chilean had just been the crown jewel in Chile's impressive World Cup campaign and had ended his final year at Barcelona with a career-high total of 21 goals in 54 games. But not many would have anticipated just quite the impact he had at Arsene Wenger's side. In a sublime first 12-months in England, Sanchez took no time at all to adjust to the Premier League and sooner rather than later, Sanchez won the hearts of every Arsenal supporters. The 26-year-old ended the season with 25 goals in all competitions, including a sensational strike that helped them lift back-to-back FA Cups - and it's no wonder Wenger was so eager to add him to the ranks next summer. With Sanchez in the side, Arsenal have plenty of belief to start dreaming of title challenges - because he can provide the spark that they've lacked for so long.
Up-front, Aguero's absence from the PFA Team of the Year was baffling to say the least. In the absence of Luis Suarez, it's hard to deny that the Argentine striker is the most talented player in English football right now. Quite incredibly, Aguero netted 26 goals in just 33 games - his best ever tally at Manchester City - even though the 26-year-old suffered from a number of injuries throughout the season. Helped by David Silva, another to have an excellent season at the Etihad, the two managed to keep City in second as it looked as though their top-four credentials were waning.
There's only one other option alongside Aguero. Whilst Charlie Austin did spectacularly for Queens Park Rangers and Diego Costa enjoyed an inspired first year in England - it has to be Harry Kane. A 21-year-old striker from Chingford, not many took notice of Kane until he found sensational form in the UEFA Europa League - scoring five goals in five games. Mauricio Pochettino gave him his chance in the first-team, and how he was rewarded. Kane - even with his cumbersome gait and leaden-footed movement - never looked back. 31 goals in all competitions later, Kane has made a real mark on the Premier League - helping Spurs to a fifth-placed finish. Quite whether he can sustain his red-hot form into next season, will remain to be seen, but there's no doubt whatsoever that the 2014-15 Barclays' Premier League campaign will always be remembered for his stunning breakthrough.
Roberto Rojas: (4-4-2) - De Gea; Ivanovic, Terry, Fonte; Azpilicueta; Sanchez, Matic, Fabregas, Hazard; Aguero, Costa.
In nets, David De Gea. Easily the best goalkeeper this season even outshining Hugo Lloris and Courtois in various performances, he has saved this United team with his shot-stopping reflexes and surely has earned himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, ever since joining the Red Devils from Atletico Madrid.
Right-back, Branislav Ivanovic. While Clyne might be up for debate, Ivanovic has been a hard man at Chelsea and, in addition to his defensive qualities, he has chipped in with a few vital goals along the way as the Blues close in on the league title. Described by José Mourinho as ‘a competitive animal with a big heart’.
One centre back, John Terry: The indisputable captain, the defender with the most goals in the Premier League, his dominant displays once more have shown how much great he gets with age as he looks to retire a Blue in the next few years. The other - Jose Fonte: The Southampton man proved that he was the rock on which Ronald Koeman built his defensive fortress, especially with the loss of various players, he was part of the Southampton side that finished 7th as they look to Europa League next season and led the Premier League in interceptions this season, a testament to his excellent vision in defense.
Down the left, Cesar Azpilicueta: The left back provided the critical defensive balance with Ivanovic and in 29 league appearances this season, the Spaniard didn't commit a single error that led to an opponent's scoring chance and Chelsea recorded 16 clean sheets with him in the lineup.
Further forward, Alexis Sanchez: From September to mid-January, he scored 18 goals, made nine assists, the former Barcelona man proved to make an instant impact in his Premier League debut season, being praised by various managers, despite some accusations of over-playing under Wenger. Still he has been suburb as Arsenal's best player playing with freedom, energy and passion.
Central defensive midfield, Nemanja Matic: Easily one of the best CDMs in the world, the Serbian provided great assistance to the likes of Fabregas and Hazard, and is rarely found wanting when it comes to making an impact in the final third as a fantastic holding midfielder.
Central midfield, Cesc Fabregas: Easily the transfer for Chelsea and possibly the Premier League, the former Gunner and Blaugrana player was an absolute icon at the club providing the most assists all season with 18, as he was influential to become a true work horse in the defense for his first ever PL win.
Out on the left, Eden Hazard: The player of the year. Easily on the best in the world, the pacy Belgian was an absolute revelation since joining the club in 2012. Jose Mourinho said "People in love with football in this country must be in love with Eden Hazard". The Portuguese couldn't have said it better. Pace on the wing, absolute technical ability has proven so with the side with Fabregas and Matic on the midfield.
Up-front Diego Costa: A hero by some, a villain by many. Total commitment; total focus; total belief in his own ability, and how Chelsea have benefited from his all-action displays – and his goals, 20 in total have shown what his debut season in the Premier League can do to the Spaniard.
Alongside Costa, Sergio Aguero: The golden boot winner. 26 goals for the Argentine, five more than Harry Kane could muster, and Aguero sat out almost five weeks with injury, proving that the striker is easily the best striker in the league with goals that displayed the full array of his talents of power and speed.
Dylan Walsh: (4-4-2) - De Gea; Clyne, Fonte, Terry, Bertrand; Sanchez, Cazorla, Matic, Hazard; Kane, Aguero.
The 2014/15 Premier League season has created stars in places most of us would had never guessed from. If you would had told me at the start of the season that Francis Coquelin would be one of Arsenal’s best players this season or that Harry Kane would score 30 goals for Tottenham this season, I would had said you were crazy and should be placed in a mental asylum. Although Chelsea were far away the best team this season, I have only selected three players from the Blues side for my Premier League Team of the Season, so without further ado, here is my Team of the Season.
The goalkeeper of the season has far and away been David De Gea. Without the Spanish shot stopper, the Manchester United would realistically be mid table and wouldn’t have a sniff of European football. I have lost count the amount of times De Gea has saved United’s back this season with incredible solo displays, and for that, De Gea takes the goalkeeper spot.
Three Southampton players make up the back four as Nathaniel Clyne, Jose Fonte and Ryan Bertrand make their way into the team. Clyne went from strength to strength as the season progressed and the right back is now seen by many as England’s best for that position. Ryan Bertrand has been one of the signings of the season as the left back flourished with his new team since his move from Chelsea in the summer.
Jose Fonte has been a huge reason why Southampton have leaked so little goals at the back and the Portuguese centre back is a huge reason why Southampton have been a huge surprise to the Premier League this season. To make up the back four is Chelsea captain John Terry. The English defender has had his best season ever for the Blues and the centre back captained his side to their fourth Premier League title with some style.
Making the midfield is Nemanja Matic and Eden Hazard of Chelsea, and Santi Cazorla and Alexis Sanchez for Arsenal. Matic has been the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League since he re-joined the Blues in January of 2014, and the Serbian rock has been a huge factor to why Chelsea won the league with his brilliant defending and physical presence. The PFA Player of the Year, Eden Hazard, has to be included in this side. The Belgian winger has shone this season for Chelsea, and has far and away been their best player for the champions, and this season the 23-year-old has looked unplayable at times with his dazzling dribbling and creative footwork.
Santi Cazorla might come as a shock for a place in the Team of the Season, but as an Arsenal fan, this little Spaniard has been one of our players of the season and definitely deserves a place in the team. Cazorla was for some time the best midfielder in the league, with his ability to create a chance out of nothing and his brilliant technique, his passing and footballing brain is a good reason to why Arsenal finished 3rd in the table. Finally we come to Alexis Sanchez, and boy oh boy, what a first season he had. The Chilean winger had huge pressure when he came in from Barcelona in the summer, and Sanchez has proved his £35 million price tag. Sanchez was the best player in the Premier League for the first half of the season, and although he tailed off a bit in the second half of the season, the winger has been Arsenal’s best player this season, scoring 16 goals in the Premier League.
Rounding off the team is Sergio Aguero and Harry Kane. I was debating on whether to put Diego Costa or Aguero into my TOTS, but I decided on the Manchester City striker. This is because Aguero finished the season as the league’s top goal scorer with 26 goals, and when you take into account that the Argentinean striker was out of the City team through injury for a while, it shows how clinical of a striker Aguero has been for City this season. Finally we end with Harry Kane. What hasn’t been said that has already been said about his man, the Tottenham striker has been the breakthrough player this season, raking up 21 goals in the Premier League and 31 in all competitions, and Kane was the winner of the PFA Young Player of the Year. Whether he will repeat this feat next season remains to be seen, but what a season this young player has had.
Aaron Irwin: (4-1-2-1-2) - De Gea, Bertrand, Terry, Fonte, Ivanovic, Matic, Sanchez, Coutinho, Aguero, Kane.
David De Gea – The Manchester United ‘keeper has been a shining light in what has been a poor season for Louis Van Gaal’s team. The Spaniard looks destined to leave for Real Madrid this summer, and if so, he’s had a stellar final season at Old Trafford. He gets the spot ahead of Chelsea’s Thibaut Courtois as De Gea has at times saved United from certain defeat.
Ryan Bertrand – The Southampton left back had big boots to fill when Luke Shaw left for Manchester United last summer, but the former Chelsea man has performed admirably and helped Southampton secure their highest ever Premier League finish. His performances also prompted Roy Hodgson to recall him to the England squad.
John Terry – While some Chelsea legends have parted ways with the club in the last year, such as Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard, Terry has stuck in the side and has had one of his finest seasons. He’s been the rock in Chelsea’s defence this season and has certainly proved one former manager wrong as he’s been virtually ever-present.
José Fonte – Another Southampton player to impress. The Saints have the second best defence in the league, with them conceding only one more goal than Chelsea. Fonte initially was disappointing when he first joined the club, being known as error prone, but he’s come on leaps and bounds and the 31 year old is one of the finest centre backs in the league now.
Brannislav Ivanovic – The Chelsea right back has been one of the most consistent players this season. Initially a centre back, Ivanovic has flourished in the full back role, usually centre backs struggle to play at full back, but it’s clear the Serbian is an exception to the rule. He’s redefined the role of what a modern day full back should be.
Nemanja Matic – Matic is another who’s flourished this season. Ever since Chelsea brought him back from Benfica last January the Serbian has been a key player. He’s linked up well with Cesc Fabregas in the midfield for the Blues and has helped deliver Chelsea’s fourth Premier League crown. Although his notable moment of the season is his reaction to being tackled by Burnley’s Ashley Barnes.
Eden Hazard – The PFA Player of the Year, Hazard has been exemplary this season. He’s been likened to the same sort of calibre as Ronaldo and Messi, and why not? The Chelsea winger has been in top form all season, providing both assists and goals to the cause. It’s fair to say without Hazard, Chelsea may not have been as dominant in this season’s title race.
Alexis Sánchez – Easily the signing of the season, Sánchez has taken to Premier League life wonderfully. The Arsenal winger has shone after his move from Barcelona. It may have been helpful to him to be the star for once, as at Barca he was constantly in Messi’s shadow. But his mazing runs, free kick accuracy and pure power make him one of the players of the season.
Philippe Coutinho – The Liverpool midfielder has been reliable for the Reds, and has been particularly impressive playing behind the strikers. He doesn’t simply provide he also makes runs and scores wonderful goals. With Liverpool enduring a poor season by their standards, Coutinho will be hoping for better next season.
Sergio Aguero – The Premier League Golden Boot winner has been prolific as usual this season. The Manchester City striker fired in 26 league goals this season as City lost their league title. Aguero suffered with injuries this season, and that may have stopped him scoring 30 goals this season, but his spells of eight goals in five games twice this season mean he’s certainly one of the World’s best finishers.
Harry Kane – The Tottenham striker makes the cut ahead of Diego Costa due to the impression he’s made this season. A virtual nobody before this season, Kane has burst onto the scene, with winning goals against Chelsea and Arsenal, he’s written his name in Spurs folklore, as well as being only the third player, Costa and Aguero being the other two, to break the 20 goal barrier. A bright future lies ahead.
Harry Robinson: (4-2-2-2) - De Gea, Ivanovic, Fonte, Terry, Azpilicueta, Sigurdsson, Matic, Sanchez, Hazard, Kane, Aguero.
GK – David De Gea - Unbeatable? Not quite. Yet with one of the most inconsistent back lines in Manchester United’s Premier League history, De Gea has mastered the art of being the key figure in the side this season. It is a hard task to choose between De Gea’s stunning reflexes, Thibaut Coutois’ calm control over his defence and Hugo Lloris’ saving of Tottenham on many occasion.
If Spurs had Brad Friedel they would be in somewhat the same position at the end of the season. If Chelsea had Petr Cech they would still have lifted the Barclays Premier League on Sunday. Yet if Manchester United had been without De Gea all season, instead with a mixture of Anders Lindegaard and Victor Valdes, I’m not even sure they would be in the top six.
De Gea hasn’t often been the key player in the best games for United (barring the exceptional man of the match performance against Liverpool) but in the rough patches he has shone. While the outfield players faltered against teams like Leicester, Burnley and Sunderland, De Gea remained strong in goal and often, despite failing to win it for United, kept it at a draw. Goals win you matches in most cases, this season though De Gea won Manchester United Champions League football.
RB – Branislav Ivanovic - The Chelsea right-back has been ever-present for the Blues this year and is one of the key reasons Chelsea trumped the other 19 teams to lift the golden crown last Sunday. There are very few quality fullbacks in the entire league and the only challengers for Ivanovic’s position in my team is Nathaniel Clyne and Hector Bellerin. What ensures the Serb takes the gauntlet ahead of Clyne is that as a defender, I have been more impressed with Ivanovic. Nathaniel Clyne has often got away with mistakes due to the resolute partnership of Jose Fonte and * sitting next to him. In stark contrast, Gary Cahill has got away with mistakes due to Branislav Ivanovic’s cover of him. What is also telling is that while Chelsea haven’t been firing in the rather dull games of the second half of the season, Ivanovic has been trusted to power down the right flank when Willian or Eden Hazard cuts inside.
CB – Jose Fonte - It would seem unfair not to include the best defender of the second best defence in the league and that is why Fonte is in here. It comes down to fine margins whether he beats his Southampton teammate Toby Alderweireld to this position in the side but I think due to ever-presence of Fonte, and the fact that he is captain of a side that has proven every single person from Earth to Mars to the dwarf house on Pluto, gets him in. A few stats on Fonte reveal he makes an average of 9 defensive actions per game, more than anyone at Chelsea. He made 1 defensive error in 37 games.
CB – John Terry - There have been very few times when I have truly been able to appreciate the utter legendary status of John Terry. For, being a Manchester United, I have had a (very) strong dislike to him and his off and on field presence. I had a sense of bitterness when he played for England but now if he did so I would be happy to have him. This season he truly has been Captain Fantastic. He made 3 defensive errors in 38 Premier League games. How many led to goals? None, because he recovered. You can argue all you want about Eden Hazard but John Terry provides the stable back four, guides Ivanovic, Gary Cahill and Acpilicueta. He is the reason that someone like Eden Hazard can succeed, because he creates such an insoluble back four.
LB – Cesar Azpilicueta - Much like his teammate Ivanovic, Azpilicueta has few challengers to take this position in my team of the season. It’s hard to describe what Azpilicueta does specifically but he does everything required of him. Despite playing on the same win as Eden Hazard, he remains a key attacking threat for Jose Mourinho’s side and has created 17 chances this season, the 8th most at the club. In terms of defence he has been superb, too. With an average of 6 defensive actions per game, he beats all but 2 of his Chelsea teammates and all but 3 of Southampton’s defence. He also, impressively, did not make a defensive error in the entire season which led to a single shot on goal.
CM – Gylfi Sigurdsson - One of the crimes of the end of the season was that no one remembered the stunning year that Gylfi Sigurdsson has had on his return to Swansea City. Much like Fonte he has proved many wrong by being part of a team on a high having got their best finish in the Premier League ever. With 73 chances created, he made more than double than any of his Swansea teammates and only less than Cesc Fabregas and Eden Hazard in comparison to Chelsea. His free-kicks have been magnificent but really, in a Swansea side fundamentally built on great teamwork out of 12th or 13th placed players, Siggurdsson provides the magic touch.
CM – Nemanja Matic - Anyone going to question me in this department? I doubt it. Ander Herrera, Michael Carrick, Cesc Fabregas, Mesut Ozil, Esteban Cambiasso and Christian Eriksen deserve honourary mentions.
RW – Alexis Sanchez - I hated choosing Sanchez, purely because everyone else did. Yet while I thought about being overtly audacious and choosing Ashley Young, I eventually realised that a winger scoring 16 goals, making 8 assists and missing just 3 games in their first season in one of the most physical leagues in the world, is quite brilliant. With 79 chances created he beats every single one of his Arsenal teammates, despite playing in a wide position. He may have drifted out of everyone’s minds towards the end of the season, but he still provided for Arsenal.
LW – Eden Hazard - What can you say about the best player in the league? Everything. Yet I don’t need to because no one will argue with me about his inclusion. (By the way, he created the most chances in the league)
ST – Harry Kane - ‘He’s one of our own’. They don’t sing that to you if you’re the fat bloke in the stands who hasn’t played for 20 years. In fact, they still don’t sing it if you’re just the rotational forward. But if you’re competing for the golden boot after only coming into the side since November, they sing it because you’re quality. Kane’s introduction and consistency throughout the year to still provide goals and to avoid injury puts him ahead of Diego Costa for me. What also makes him more valuable is that he has carried Tottenham whereas it’s clear to see that Hazard, Drogba, Remy, Oscar, Fabregas can provide goals when Costa is injured or suspended.
ST - Sergio Aguero - Golden boot winner, team carrier, God. And I’m a Manchester United fan.
Sean Carter: (4-4-2) - De Gea, Clyne, Terry, Fonte, Azpilicueta, Sanchez, Matic, Fabregas, Hazard, Kane, Aguero.
GK - David De Gea - Unsurprisingly, David De Gea is my number 1. The Manchester United Goalkeeper has had an outstanding season at Old Trafford, making a key contribution to the Red Devils fourth placed finish. He has been model of consistency in what has been a season full of ups and downs for Louis Van Gaal’s side, with many now tipping the Spaniard to replace Real Madrid legend Iker Casillas at the Bernabau next season.
RB - Nathaniel Clyne – Nathaniel Clyne has enjoyed yet another fine season down on the South Coast with Southampton. Ronald Koeman’s men were the surprise package of the Premier League this season giving the top four a real run for their money at times, and Clyne played a big part. His consistent defensive performances combined with his frightening attacking prowess down the right flank put him in my team of the year.
CB - John Terry – The 34 year old has remarkably played every minute of every Premier League game for the blues this season, winning his fourth league title in the process. The captain looked just as reliable and solid at the heart of the defence as he did when he led to Chelsea to the title back in 2004-05, maybe this guy could do a job for England?
CB - Jose Fonte – Jose Fonte is another who seems to be showing no signs of his age, at 31 years old he was the organiser of a very consistent and reliable Southampton defence. The Saints had the second best defence in the league this season, conceding just one more than champions Chelsea and the Portguese central defender has to take a lot of the credit.
LB - Cesar Azpilicueta - Azpilicueta’s qualities are not always eye-catching or spectacular, but he his defensive grit and strength of character has helped Chelsea through the last few months of the season. His reliability has given PFA Player of the Year Hazard greater licence to work his magic down their left flank, he is really an unsung hero of the Champions side.
RM – Alexis Sanchez – The Chilean winger has had an outstanding first season in the Premier League and has taken next to no time to settle in. His energy and hardworking attitude has made him a hit with the Arsenal fans, and his tally of 16 league goals isn’t too shabby either.
CM – Nemanja Matic – Often a unsung hero in the heart of the Chelsea midfield, he gives protection to the back four and has the ability to start off a lightning fast blues counter attack. He gives the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Eden Hazard the freedom to roam around the pitch and create opportunities going forward, one of the signings of the season for sure.
CM – Cesc Fabregas – With the most number of assists in the league this season, it is hard to leave Cesc Fabregas out. Another shrewd signing by Jose Mourinho which has catapulted Chelsea head and shoulders above the top teams in the division, a great passer of the ball and with the ability to thread the ball through the eye of a needle, he has had a great first season on the blue side of London.
LM – Eden Hazard – Not much needs to be said about this man. By far the player of the season in English football, dazzling us with his dribbling, speed and dangerous wing play. The key man in Chelsea’s title push this season, the Belgian is rapidly becoming one of the very best in the world.
ST – Harry Kane – Perhaps the surprise package of the season, the youngster has burst onto the scene with his knack of being in the right place at the right time and his remarkable finishing. The forward has a bright future ahead of him for both club and country.
ST – Sergio Aguero – The Argentinian scooped the golden boot this season in a Manchester City side that really, for them, had a disappointing year in all competitions. Having scored 26 league goals this season his record really does speak for itself, the best forward in England for me.