The football season comes to a close and the ridiculous transfer rumours now take up the back pages. So, what better distraction than to look back over the year and pick my best XI of the season.
Again, these are just my views, feel free to debate. I'll keep a simple 4-4-2 formation, to avoid any slight confusion.
Goalkeeper: Edwin Van der Sar
It was sad that he didn't end his United career with a Champions League trophy in his arms, but his performances for United were consistently impressive. His handling and reflexes were superb for a man of his age and played a massive part in the winning mentality of Man Utd this season. People will argue he had a strong defence in front of him, but when called upon, he did not disappoint.
Right-Back: Kyle Walker
A season which saw this man enter the England squad, Kyle Walker has shown he is more than ready for the Premier League after a highly successful loan spell with Aston Villa. His attacking mentality, which seems evident in most top-class right back's nowadays, has certainly turned some heads. The advantage with Walker is that he is strong as well as quick, and has a real chance of cementing a place in the Tottenham side. What's more, he's young and English, but he will have to up his game if he wants to maintain his spot in the England squad, especially with Micah Richards waiting in the under 21's, a close second it must be said.
Centre-Back: Nemanja Vidic
A predictable choice I am sure. Vidic is a rock at the back which no striker wants to come up against. His aerial ability, leadership and dedication could make him a United legend for years to come. Whether he be at the back with Ferdinand, Smalling or Evans, he controls that back four like his life depends on it. An obvious choice.
Centre-Back: Vincent Kompany
Man City certainly have made the most of having alarmingly rich owners, but among all the star names, Kompany keeps City ticking. Given Mancini's tactics, a substantial amount of pressure is put on the defenders to keep that clean sheet. With Kompany at the back, they have been able to do that. His organisation has pushed Man City to just where they want to be, third place and a Champions League spot.
Left-Back: Ashley Cole
Say what you want about Cole, he has consistently performed for whatever side he has played for. He has attack and defence in his game and will not be shifted from his position at Chelsea in a hurry. He knows what his job is, and he delivers. One of England's few consistent performers over the past couple of years.
Right Midfield: Antonio Valencia
I apologise for now picking three Man Utd players...
But they did win the league.
Valencia may have been out injured for a few months in the season, but when he re-emerged late in the season, he ran riot down the right flank. The combination of strength and pace was nothing short of destructive, not to mention the fact that he can cross. Three key attributes which make the perfect winger. I had my doubts when Man Utd signed him to fill that slot, but he has proved me so wrong.
Centre Midfield: Luka Modric
All the talk at Tottenham this year has been Van der Vaart and Bale. However, this man in the centre of midfield has been genius. His ability to hold on to the ball for such a small player is incredible and very rarely does he miss-place a pass. Spurs may not have managed Champions League football this year, but if they manage to hold on to Modric, their attacking flair will continue to pressurise the top four.
Centre Midfield: Jack Wilshere
The exciting young talent of Wilshere has been talked about constantly this season, and rightly so. His ball carrying ability is brilliant and he should now be an England regular for years to come. He plays football like a boy in a playground with his mates, no sense of pressure and wants to be on the ball as much as he can. England fans suddenly have something to smile about.
Left Midfield: Gareth Bale
Bale did have an on and off season overall, but his initial impact is enough to give him a spot in my side. His performance against Inter Milan was a joy to behold, even though Spurs lost 4-3, it was the start of quite a special season for the Welshman. His acceleration is incredible and not many in the Premier League can keep up with him. It'll be interesting to see if he can maintain his form next season.
Striker: Javier Hernandez
Difficult to avoid picking this man. Surely signing of the season, 'Chicarito' has taken to the Premiership like a duck to water. His composure in front of goal this season is similar to that of team-mate Michael Owen when he first shone in the top league. The question is, can he maintain this for years to come? If he can, the partnership of himself and Wayne Rooney is something that will put fear into the eyes of any defensive unit.
Striker: Carlos Tevez
The Argentinian may not be in the league next season and I am not sure how Manchester City would plan on replacing him next year. He works hard and scores goals and it would be a shame to see him leave. Without him, City don't look half as good in the attacking part of the pitch, any club in the world would be extremely happy to have him in their side. He scored 20 goals from 31 appearances this season, not a bad record at all.
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