The underrated players of the Barclays Premier League
The Barclays Premier league has some of the most recognised and superstar names of the modern game. Rooney, Torres, Robinho, Drogba, Terry to name but a few. It is often these players that get the adoration of the press, often lifted up on high after a match winning performance or a goal out of nothing.The thing that I always found as a amateur player was a brilliant performance can often go unrecognised if it was just a case of performing your role perfectly. The guy who broke up play to create the chance is forgotton for the man who tucked it away from the edge of the box. This pattern is true throughout the game with most of the big teams having players who are crucial to their team, but who often miss out on the adoration of the media and most fans.I am not saying forget the guy who scores the goal, but just to take a step back when thinking about your favourite players.Here are a few names I think don't get the credit they deserve;Darren Fletcher, Manchester United
An excellent footballer who is now in pole position to be the leader of United's midfield. He was the player they missed most in the UEFA Champions League final to break up Barcelona and turn defence into attack. He is an intelligent player who takes up some great positions, he runs all day, can pick a pass and is also cabable of big goals. I expect him to grow into a permanent fixture for United over the next couple of years and hopefully step more into people's attention.
Jussi Jääskeläinen, Bolton wanderers
A goalkeeper always left out of the 'best in the league' debate. A consistent performer (he has been at Bolton for 12 years), great shot-stopper and a player that if it were not for the team he plays for would be right up there and considered one of the greats. A goalkeeper is a harsh position - all glory or despair - but for his consistency over such a long period of time should be commended.Gareth Barry, Manchester CityA strange choice maybe considering he is an established England international and has recently made a multi-million pound move to Manchester City. However, the fact that Barry moved for the same price as Michael Turner from Hull City is a joke. He would have added to any of the top four teams and provides great balance to a side, especially one looking to attack. Reliable, able to set the pace of a game and comfortable with the ball at his feet - and a great penalty taker. I think Rafa might end up regretting this one.
Phil Neville, EvertonOkay, so I am shooting myself in the foot here (think Romania in UEFA Euro 2000), but it should be acknowledged that Phil Neville made his debut for Manchester United 15 years ago, has 59 England caps and is still captain of a top Barclays Premier League team. Disciplined, professional and a great leader for the Toffees.
Bobby Zamora, Fulham FCThis is not a pure sign of loyalty to Brighton & Hove Albion (Zamora scored 76 goals in 126 appearances) but Zamora is a player in my opinion. Okay, he does not bang the goals in but his strength and hold up play can make the difference. At West Ham United he showed glimpses of his ability (playoffs 2004/2005 season;) and Fulham could really benefit from sticking by him this summer. He is strong, and when confident a brilliant finisher, I expect more people to be talking about him come the end of the season
An excellent footballer who is now in pole position to be the leader of United's midfield. He was the player they missed most in the UEFA Champions League final to break up Barcelona and turn defence into attack. He is an intelligent player who takes up some great positions, he runs all day, can pick a pass and is also cabable of big goals. I expect him to grow into a permanent fixture for United over the next couple of years and hopefully step more into people's attention.
Jussi Jääskeläinen, Bolton wanderers
A goalkeeper always left out of the 'best in the league' debate. A consistent performer (he has been at Bolton for 12 years), great shot-stopper and a player that if it were not for the team he plays for would be right up there and considered one of the greats. A goalkeeper is a harsh position - all glory or despair - but for his consistency over such a long period of time should be commended.Gareth Barry, Manchester CityA strange choice maybe considering he is an established England international and has recently made a multi-million pound move to Manchester City. However, the fact that Barry moved for the same price as Michael Turner from Hull City is a joke. He would have added to any of the top four teams and provides great balance to a side, especially one looking to attack. Reliable, able to set the pace of a game and comfortable with the ball at his feet - and a great penalty taker. I think Rafa might end up regretting this one.
Phil Neville, EvertonOkay, so I am shooting myself in the foot here (think Romania in UEFA Euro 2000), but it should be acknowledged that Phil Neville made his debut for Manchester United 15 years ago, has 59 England caps and is still captain of a top Barclays Premier League team. Disciplined, professional and a great leader for the Toffees.
Bobby Zamora, Fulham FCThis is not a pure sign of loyalty to Brighton & Hove Albion (Zamora scored 76 goals in 126 appearances) but Zamora is a player in my opinion. Okay, he does not bang the goals in but his strength and hold up play can make the difference. At West Ham United he showed glimpses of his ability (playoffs 2004/2005 season;) and Fulham could really benefit from sticking by him this summer. He is strong, and when confident a brilliant finisher, I expect more people to be talking about him come the end of the season
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