As the end of the 2013/14 Premier League season draws ever closer, respected writers, professionals and fans have all shared their picks on who makes their team, player and manager of the current campaign. Although this season’s thrilling title race is yet to be concluded and still has many twists and turns to come, I have also made my mind up on who makes my team of 2013/14.
Lining up in a 4-4-2 wide diamond formation, with wingers on each side, my team of the season would line up like this. Here is my midfield.
Defensive Midfielder:
Steven Gerrard – Liverpool
Yet another Englishman in the line up. Liverpool and England skipper Steven Gerrard has transformed himself into one of the finest holding midfielders in world football currently, and has been pivotal to the Reds’ title challenge.
Eyebrows were raised when Brendan Rodgers deployed his captain in a holding role and many wondered whether or not Gerrard could discipline himself in that position. They were wrong to doubt. Magnificent displays for Liverpool both home and away have seen Gerrard break down attack after attack from the opposition, whilst creating and scoring countless chances of his own, making him the obvious choice in midfield.
Attacking Midfielder:
Yaya Toure – Manchester City
In my opinion, Manchester City’s Yaya Toure is quite simply the best midfielder in the world at the minute. His form this season has seen him notch up 18 goals from midfield, and they’re certainly not tap ins.
Having the highest number of free kicks scored and as well as some absolute screamers, the 30-year old is not only City’s top scorer but also the third top scorer in the Premier League. Ask any Manchester City fan who their player of the season is and 99% of them will say Toure.
His unfortunate injury picked up against Liverpool may see him miss out the next game or two for City, but should he recover quickly, he could well inspire City to another Premier League title.
Right Winger:
Raheem Sterling – Liverpool
19-year old Raheem Sterling has been a delight to watch for all Liverpool and England fans this year.
His contribution to Liverpool’s title charge has seen him put in man of the match displays against the likes of Manchester City, Tottenham and Arsenal this season and his impressive tally of 9 goals and 4 assists has all but secured his ticket to Rio.
Southampton’s Adam Lallana has also impressed this season but it’s Sterling’s development in countless positions for Liverpool that gives him the place in my team.
Left Winger:
Eden Hazard – Chelsea
Chelsea’s wizard on the wing has once again proved he’s one of the best young players in world football at the moment. The Belgium international has scored an outstanding 14 league goals whilst setting up a further 7, and has been by far Chelsea’s best attacking player this year.
Mourinho’s men are still in with a shot at the title and next weekend’s crucial clash with Liverpool is the sort of fixture Hazard thrives in. His return from injury couldn’t come at a better time and the 23-year old’s performances this season may well earn him a taste of Premier League glory.