Newcastle - Fluke or Improvement?

After surprising absolutely everyone last season with a 5th placed finish, it begs the question - was it all just a fluke or have they really just got better?

When they kicked off their campaign against Arsenal last season with a 0-0 draw, no one expected that they would end up finishing 5th and narrowly miss out on Champions League football. With Alan Pardrew at the helm they have bought in plenty of new names, who at the time were relatively unknown but what an appoint Pardrew was, guiding Newcastle to their highest finish in a while.


With the likes of Cabaye, Ba, Ben Arfa and Collocini, Pardrew had a decent little team but they turned out to be much better than decent. Yohan Cabaye was bought in from Lille, Ba from relegated West Ham on a free and Ben Arfa and Collocini had both already been at the club. Few had heard of Cabaye before his transfer to Newcastle but more than enough have now. The classy Frenchman lit up the league with his precise passing and marksman shooting. A great find he was for the Toon. Demba Ba had just finished the season with West Ham and although they were relegated he nearly kept them up scoring a few since he joined. However, Ba had a clause in his contract that stated if West Ham were relegated then he would be allowed to leave for free, Pardrew snapped him up in a reasonably quiet deal but nevertheless an excellent bit of business from the former Hammers' manager. Hatem Ben Arfa had already been at the club before the start of the season however he broke his leg previously after a nasty tackle from Nigel De Jong. It was only really this season when he broke through as he flew past defenders before whipping in a cross. Collocini had been no standout player before this season but things changed and he made himself known as one of the best defenders in the league with his commanding displays at the back. 

Was it all a fluke? Did they just have a good season and now they'll return to mediocrity? I personally don't think so, Pardrew has built up a quality squad that will be able to possibly improve next season. Papis Cisse joined and has struggled to stop scoring since, with him and Ba upfront they have easily on of the best strikeforces in the league. Ben Arfa on one wing and Jonas Gutierrez on the other they have quality widemen who are both more than capable of delivering a good ball in. In centre midfield they've got Yohan Cabaye and Cheick Tiote, a good balance in my opinion. Cabaye runs the show slipping passes through whilst Tiote bursts around dispossessing opponents and winning the ball back for his team. In terms of fullbacks they have young Davide Santon who I rate very highly and will be one for the future. It remans very likely that they will sign Mathieu Debuchy and I believe this will be another great signing for the Toon as the Frenchman impressed me during EURO 2012. At centre back they have Collocini who can bring the ball forward, I do however feel he needs a better partner and that is a particular area where they need to strengthen. In goal is Tim Krul who established himself  as a top-class keeper last season.

If Newcastle can hang on to their stars and perhaps bring in a centre back, Debuchy and maybe a few more players to add depth to their squad then I think they can go one better next season and reach the Champions League. Last season was not a fluke I feel, simply managerial genius from Pardrew who was rightly rewarded with the Barclays Manager of the Season award.  

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Andy Carroll To West Ham - Yes or No?

With rumours flying around here there and everywhere about Liverpool Striker Andy Carroll's future and strong links with a move to Upton Park we looked at whether this would be a good deal for all parties involved.

Liverpool's £35m big man Andy Carroll has been all over the headlines recently linked with moves away from Anfield. It is said that Newcastle want him back either on a loan or for a cheap fee, also that Fulham are after him in a deal involving Clint Dempsey going the other way, however perhaps the most surprising rumour is the one linking him with a move to newly promoted West Ham United. Newspaper have claimed that he wants to stay at Liverpool at work his way back into the team however they're also saying that Brendan Rodgers wants none of it as Carroll wouldn't suit his style of player (understandable considering the flowing football that his Swansea team wowed everyone with last year). In this article we take particular interest in a possible move to West Ham.



The bulk of the rumours linking him with West Ham revolve around the idea that because Carroll and Kevin Nolan are 'best-friends', Nolan will be able to persuade Carroll. Another factor talked about is his relationship with current manager Sam Allardyce who coached him in his time at Newcastle. This has got to be a pull factor for the striker as it is a chance for him to get some regular first team football under a manager he already knows and alongside his mate.

I think one of the most appetising parts of the deal involves Liverpool however as a season long loan benefits them greatly. Firstly, they have most of a big wage bill off their books for a season. Also, if Carroll went to West Ham and turned out to be a huge success returning to his glory days at Newcastle they get the striker they initially thought they were buying back. When they paid the ludicrous fee of £35m for him they thought they were buying a big powerful striker who was excellent in the air and not bad with his feet either. A good season at West Ham could get his confidence back and ultimately provide a stepping stone in his career where he can really push on to be the player he was expected at a young age. A player doesn't just suddenly become bad, like they say, form is temporary but class is permanent and I think his is a similar story to Fernando Torres, he was a world class player at Liverpool but since he's gone to Chelsea goals have been few and far between. Recently he has really picked up and is showing himself to be the player that he used to be and I believe the same could happen with Andy Carroll.

A loan to West Ham would also be an excellent bit of business from them too as he would suit their style of play. We all know Big Sam likes a long ball sometimes up to the striker and Carroll is the perfect man for that. I find it difficult to imagine him not reveling in a target man role under Allardyce. I feel that if the Hammers did pull off the move then he would definitely bag at least 15 goals for them and goals are what win you games. They could do with a big man who really bullies defenders and scores goals week in week out. He would be complemented by Matty Taylor's pinpoint crossing and Mark Noble's precision passing hugely and it could really be the start of something good for West Ham.

Thinking about what the move would actually mean for the player himself well surely it's a no-brainer. He's goes to West Ham shows everyone how good he is and then earns himself a place back in Liverpool's team or if he plays well he could earn himself a move to another big club. 

In conclusion I feel this would be an excellent bit of business for everyone, the player, Liverpool and West Ham. If all goes well during the loan spell then the world's his oyster!

What do you think? Tell us in the comments section below and we'll respond!

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Which League Is The Best League In The World?

For a few years now the Premier League has been widely known as the best league in the world but is it really?

You can buy all the big name players you want but when it comes to drama you simply cannot, it is priceless. Last season we all witnessed one of the most dramatic finishes to a season, EVER. You couldn't have made it up, if you were a Man City fan then what a great day for you, 2 goals in injury time to win the league against your biggest rivals, it doesn't get much better than that! Sometimes the Prem is criticised as being the reason for the England National Team's demise in recent times due to the fact that it has so many foreign players in it, however this is not uncommon in other leagues where their national team is successful. 

The Prem has an enormous amount of talent in it nowadays with many clubs spending big in the transfer market to attract the big names. Even in a 0-0 draw there is still excitement and often controversy, nearly every match is exciting and with such great talent on show it's difficult not for it to be. I think what helps the excitement is the tempo of the football, it is fast. If you watch other international teams play the pace is a lot slower and attacks tend to build up gradually. Tight pitches help this too but you won't see more counter attacks in any other league due to the fast tempo of the games. 

If you look at other leagues to compare it to, there's really no competition. The French Ligue 1 isn't really that big and there are not too many good teams. The Bundesliga isn't much better either, a decent league that has improved recently but nothing on the Prem. The Italian League, Serie A is absolutely riddled with match fixing and scandals and its integrity is hugely questionable. I think the main competitor though is the Spanish league, Liga BBVA. Mainly due to the fact it is home to 2 of the great/greatest European sides in Barcelona and Real Madrid. However the downfall of the league is that it is simply a 2 horse race, it's similar to the SPL in that aspect as there are only 2 teams that compete to win the league and it is those 2 that I mentioned earlier. This makes it very predictable and a large percentage of the games boring as they so one-sided. One league that has caught my eye recently is the Chinese League, it is only really just getting started but teams in it are able to offer players monumental wages and it has allowed them to attract the likes of Drogba, Anelka, Yakubu, Keita and Barrios to name a few. I feel that if this league continues to develop then it may give the European Leagues some competition. 

Another factor on the Premier League's side is how open it is. There aren't really and poor teams, every season there is an upset with a team at the bottom of the league beating one at the top. The relegation or title battle is always open and the teams that are to be relegated or win the league are never really that predictable, it has never been a foregone conclusion, there are always twists and turns in the season. You have about 5 or 6 teams that could win the league each year and even more who are candidates for relegation but one thing you are assured of is top class excitement and a season not to be missed. 

What league do you think is the best and why? Tell us in the comments section below and we'll reply! Don't forget to follow us on twitter by pressing the button in the top right! I've added a thumbs up or thumbs down rating, please vote!

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Who Does Your Team Need This Transfer Window?

As we pass through the period of transition from one season to another, players come and go but who does your club need? We go through every Prem team outlining their ideal targets for this Summer.

Arsenal:


Arsenal moved quickly to bring in players, perhaps as they thought Van Persie was going to leave and if Giroud and Podolski can fill his huge boots then Arsenal are set for a good season in my opinion. They have a good core of their team. Positions where they could improve are down the left side. André Santos isn't good enough in my opinion and neither is Kieron Gibbs yet so I feel they need to sign a left back. Possible suitors for the position include Federico Balzeretti and Leighton Baines. Balzeretti impressed me hugely in the Euro's and I think he would be a good signing. I also believe Arsenal should try and sign Baines, who is a brilliant full-back and could get even better playing for a good team. 

Aston Villa:

Aston Villa have a decent squad and it surprised me that they struggled last season. I feel that the area where they're lacking is in midfield. They have good forwards in Bent and Agbonglahor and good centre backs in Dunne and Collins. Although Petrov has been absent Ireland has never really settled. An ideal addition would be Aaron Ramsey, the Welshman has been slightly out of favour recently and I think Aston Villa could possibly grab him on loan. This would be good for him as he would develop and add to their midfield and he may choose to stay on. Another one they should try for is Yossi Benayoun, he is still a good player and would definitely be a hit at Villa Park.


Chelsea:

I believe that Chelsea have a very strong squad for next season and they will do well. The only area where I feel they need improvement is at right back. Jose Bosingwa was poor last season so anyone is an improvement really but I feel possible candidates are Brazilian Maicon who is undoubtedly a world class player and Mathieu Debuchy. Debuchy was another one who impressed me at Euro 2012 and if they can snatch him from Newcastle it will be good business from them.

Everton:

Everton need a winger in my opinion, someone who can burst down the win delivering crosses for Jelavic to poach. The rest of their team is solid if they can hold onto their star players. An ideal player would be Matt Jarvis of Wolves, he is quick and delivers a great cross, I feel he is very underated and would be a great signing. It is also important that they manage to secure Steven Pienaar as he is the creative spark in their team.


Fulham:

Fulham need to strengthen their defence, they need a solid defender who can limit other teams. They have a creative player in Dembele, and a goalscorer in Dembele with the rest of their team being decent so I feel they need to bolster their defence with someone like Robert Huth or maybe a cheeky move for Manchester United's Jonny Evans who has to beat Ferdinand, Vidic, Smalling and Jones to a starting spot.


Liverpool:


Liverpool have a decent squad, if Carroll can continue his form then him and Suarez with be a good strikeforce, Gerrard runs the midfield so the only place I can see they need to improve is at centre back. Martin Skrtel need a solid partner there. An ideal solution to their problem would be Giorgio Chiellini, he would make the defence safe and can also fill in at left-back if needed to. He would cost quite a bit but in my opinion that fee would be worth it.



Manchester City:

Man City almost have a dream team so it's difficult to say where they can add. Perhaps they could sign a winger, it would give them a different approach to attacking and would allow them to change things if it's not working. If teams cotton onto Silva, Nasri and Toure weaving through before setting up the strikers then they could change it by adopting a wide approach, it would be something different for them and could mean more success. With money they have they could get almost anyone but Arjen Robben would be a great signing, or even Tottenham's Gareth Bale who wants Champions League football.



Manchester United:

The only position where I think Man United can improve is in goal, whilst David De Gea may be one for the future, they don't have that time as they are always chasing trophies. With a strong defence, good midfield (especially with the addition of Shinji Kagawa) and Hernandez and Rooney up front it is a strong team but they could really do with a world class keeper. With Hugo Lloris being linked with a move away from Lyon, I believe it is worth a go trying to pinch him right from underneath Liverpool and Arsenal's noses.


Newcastle:

After their great season Newcastle are looking to push on. They are however slightly lacking at centre back. Collocini was a rock for them last season but he needs someone else with him. They have a great keeper classy midfield and powerful forward line with quick wingers so the only real place they need to work on is centre back. A good signing for them would be Andrea Barzagli of Juventus. He was impressive in the Euros and would tighten up the Newcastle defence making them a real force next season.


Norwich:

Norwich surprised absolutely everyone last season with their 12th placed finish in just their first season back. I believe they need to sign a striker partner for Grant Holt, they relied slightly too much on his goals last season and if they can find someone to do it then they can do even better. I think they should try for Wolves' Steven Fletcher, he is a proven goalscorer in the Premier League and could complement Holt.

QPR:

QPR have quite some funds available to them so I think they will do better this season. I think that they need a centre back to join Anton Ferdinand. I believe Chris Samba would be a good signing, rumours suggest he is unsettled in Russia so it is possible. He is a strong defender who has already proven himself in the Premier League, Mark Hughes would do well to sign him as he would improve the defence to no end.


Reading:


I think Reading will need to sign quite a few players this season. The type of player they need to go for is someone who has experience in the Premier League as this is crucial when trying to avoid the drop. They need players such as William Gallas, Damien Duff and Louis Saha. All of those would be brilliant signings and they're possible with Gallas and Saha looking for new clubs and Duff slowly losing his place at Fulham.



Southampton:

Southampton need to do something similar to Reading, sign experienced players. They could also do with a centre back, someone just like William Gallas or John O shea. Having a good defence is crucial if you're aiming to stay up as you want to be able to focus on scoring goals against teams rather than putting everything into not conceeding.


Stoke:

Stoke have impressed everyone with the way they came up and stayed up progressing into a solid team that's very hard to beat at home. I feel now is the time for them to really push on and look to bigger things. To do this they need to sign a goalscorer who will get them 10+ goals this season. After Bolton were relegated last season it would be a good idea for them to go for Kevin Davies, he is a hard working forward who would suit their style of play and get goals.


Sunderland:

After Martin O'Neill took over midway through last season there was a definite improvement at Sunderland and they will be looking to continue that form into next season. Asamoah Gyan recently left for Al-Ain so Sunderland need a striker desperately. Jermain Defoe would be a great replacement as he is out of favour at Spurs and would guarantee them goals, they should do everything they can to get him or someone similar. 


Swansea: 

Swansea's goals came from a number of places last season and that is why I feel they also need a striker, Danny Graham is a good forward but not one who will score 10+ goals. I think they should go for Wolves striker Kevin Doyle. He is a hard working forward who hustles defences into mistake and could poach a number of goals for them, he also has vast experience so would be a good signing for them. 


Tottenham:

Spurs need a solid centre back, they are great going forward with the likes of Bale, Van Der Vaart, Lennon and Modric but slightly lacking in defence. It is crucial they sign Adebayor for this season too as he was vital for them last season. They were linked with him in January but I think they should go for him again, Chris Samba would tighten up their defence and make them hard to score against whilst, Bale and co. burst forward scoring goals.

West Brom:

West Brom could struggle this season after losing Roy Hodgson, they need to bring in a creative midfielder who creates chances for Odemwingie and Long who will hit the back of the net with most chances. I feel they should try and sign Man United's Anderson, he has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford so I think it would be possible as he is also slightly out of favour. He would at the creative spark that they need to their midfield.


West Ham:

West Ham have quite a few Premier League class players in their squad and a good core to their team however they were predictable at times last season simply hoofing it long for the forwards. This is why I feel they need a winger or creative midfielder, someone who takes people on and can beat a man before delivering into the box or someone who put chances on a plate for strikers. A good player for this would be Villa's Mark Albrighton, he is a developing player but he has pace and can beat a man with and then put in a great delivery, him or Jarvis who are similar would both be great signings.


Wigan:

Wigan just about stayed up again this season after Roberto Martinez finally got them playing. They lacked goals and Hugo Rodallega appeared unsettled so I feel they need a striker, someone like Kenwyne Jones or Andy Johnson would fit in well there. Perhaps if they signed one of those they could push on for a mid table finish rather than avoiding the drop.



Who do you think YOUR club needs? Tell us in the comments section below and we'll respond.

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Euro 2012 - Team Of The Tournament

With almost 2.5 goals per game, Euro 2012 was not to be missed. It was a mesmerising tournament with even the least likely matches serving up great games of football. At LatestFooty we have decided to name the 11 best players at the tournament in our opinion.

Goal keeper:

At the ripe old age of 31, 'Saint Iker' as he is known is Spain takes the goalie spot in our team. A man with experience in abundance after representing his country 137 times again showed his class this tournament. He was particularly impressive in the final, getting a touch to most crosses that were bound for an Italian player to nod home. With his cat-like reflexes the Spaniard is arguably the best keeper in the world and his performances at Euro 2012 emphasised this.

Right-Back:

At right-back we have quite a surprising pick. Czech Republic's Gebre Selassie, the first black player to represent Czech Republic had the spotlight on him at the tournament but he shone, easily one of their best players he defended diligently and got forward without the need of an invitation. An impressive tournament was capped off by being rewarded with a transfer to German club Werder Bremen.  



Centre-Back:

Not a popular man these days but his performances on the pitch have not suffered. John Terry was a rock for England at the tournament, he contained the likes of Ibrahimovic, Benzema, Ribery and Balotelli without problems. The game against Italy was a solid defensive performance and he helped to hold out the runners up for 120 mins. With block after block no one was getting past or getting a shot away. It seemed as though his best days were behind him but, his performances showed that he isn't done just yet.

Centre-Back:

The second centre-back in the team is Portugal's Pepe. The Real Madrid star was defensively solid throughout and his no nonsense defending stopped most attacks and held out Spain for 120 mins. The big Portuguese isn't afraid to put his body on the line and did so a number of times for Portugal throughout the tournament. He created a good partnership with fellow centre back Bruno Alves and they managed to progress through the group stages and the quarter finals to reach the semi finals only losing out to Spain on penalties.

Left-Back:

Quite an easy pick this one, Spain's Jordi Alba. Recently transferred to Barcelona the Spaniard enjoyed an excellent tournament finished off with a goal in the final. His electrifying pace meant he could burst forward to join in attacks, his most notable contributions being his perfect cross for Xabi Alonso against France and his goal in the final. At only 23 he has big things ahead of him and this was shown during Euro 2012, a fine tournament for the youngster.

Right Midfield:

At right midfield we have none other than Cristiano Ronaldo. He managed to get 3 goals in the tournament and at times was completely unplayable. He scored both goals in Portugal's victory over Holland and headed the winner against Czech Republic sending them through to the semi-finals against Spain. There was a mix up in the penalty shoot-out where it appeared that he chose to be 5th penalty taker to grab the glory however it didn't get that far and Portugal were knocked out before he even walked up to the spot. Nevertheless, a great tournament from a great player, some say even the greatest at the moment.

Centre Midfield:

What a tournament this man had, Andrea Pirlo. Many thought he was finished, how wrong they were as he was at his best in Poland and Ukraine. Orchestrating games from deep in midfield with his beautiful passes. The long haired maestro would glide past opponents before floating over a killer ball. The fact that he won 3 man-of-the-matches speaks for itself really as he got 2 assists and a goal too. He dictated the game against England and Germany couldn't stop him either, he was the player on everyone's lips even at the age of 33. 

Centre Midfield:

An easy choice here really, the player of the tournament, Andres Iniesta. The small Spaniard was pivotal in their success during the tournament. Like Pirlo, Iniesta also won man-of-the-match on 3 occasions, notably receiving one of those in the final. He joins in with Spain's passing style but when he needs to he just turns up the tempo, turning and running at defenders before poking the ball through for a striker to run onto. Often compared and likened to Xavi he outplayed his Barcelona team-mate and certainly took games by the scruff of the neck. 

Left Midfield:


At left midfield we have Václav Pilař from Czech Republic. The winger was impressive in both the quarter finals and group games. As well as playing well, he chipped in with 2 goals for his country. His most notable game in my opinion was the final group game against Poland where he was excellent both going forward and defending. He worked hard for his team and helped out the full back when he needed to. A greatt tournament from the 23 year old who will certainly get better. 

Striker: 


The striker is a name familiar to many, Mario Balotelli. The Italian forward can often be hit and miss but his performance against Germany was definitely hit. Slightly ineffective in the other games apart from an excellent goal against Ireland. Never afraid to shoot or take someone on he also scored 3 goals in the tournament with a double against the Germans to add to his sublime striker against Ireland, his performances showed a balance between pace power and precision. One for the future if he can stay out of trouble.

Striker:


The final player in the team is Germany's Mario Gomez. The Bayern Munich striker was another who scored 3 goals at the tournament, 2 of those were quality goals. His goal against Portugal gave Germany the win and his brace against the Netherlands did the same. He narrowly missed out on the golden boot due to the fact that he played more minutes than Fernando Torres. His all round play was good and teams struggled to deal with him at times, especially Holland. 



So there it is, our team of the tournament at Euro 2012. Tell us yours in the comments section below or if you think we've missed anyone out. Any feedback on the article would also be appreciated.

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Life After Robin Van Persie

So today it was announced that Robin Van Persie wouldn't be extending his contract at Arsenal due to a desire to win trophies and having differing views about the club's future. Arsenal's best player by a mile last season - Can they live without him?


RVP has been an integral part of the Arsenal team over the recent seasons, it is only this season that he has really excelled but nonetheless he is still a big player for them. With 37 goals in all competitions last season he will be dearly missed. Here's a stat for you - without RVP's goals Arsenal would have finished 16th in the league! This emphasises just how important he is to the club.

Arsene worked quickly to bring in new talent, the question is - was that to replace RVP or to convince him to stay by bringing in quality players? Who knows. In Lukas Podolski Arsenal have a proven forward who has just enjoyed a rather prolific season with FC Koln. The German has represented his nation on no fewer than 101 times, experience at that level is very valuable and this is one of the reasons why Arsene has 'splashed' out on him. He was recently joined by Montpellier's Olivier Giroud. The 6ft 3 Frenchman is, in my opinion, a gamble. Although quite successful in the French Ligue 1 last season that was only really his breakthrough season and he has nothing like the experience on the big stage that Podolski and RVP possess as he has only appeared 9 times for his country. Known for his physical style of play and heading ability Arsene has taken a gamble with him, which is rather unlike him but maybe he realises after 8 seasons without a trophy that it's time for a change.




Looking at the other talent remaining at the Emirates there is still a solid team even without RVP with the likes of Wilshere, Song and Vermaelen there is still the core of a good team, especially if you add in Arteta and Walcott. It will be interesting to see if Gervinho can really prove a point as with him on one wing and Walcott on the other providing countless crosses for Giroud, this sounds like a pretty good tactic. Podolski isn't an out and out striker, he can play just behind another striker too so maybe a formation could be made around him. The rest of Arsenal's squad is sound with a decent young keeper in Szczęsny, a good right back in Sagna, an improving centre back pairing in Vermaelen and Koscielny. I feel where they are really lacking is at left-back, Kieron Gibbs is still young and developing and André Santos didn't really set the world alight with his performance last year.

In conlusion, Arsenal's future depends on whether the new signings can deliver, Arsene has shown faith in them by paying quite large transfer fees by his standards and they will be keen to pay him back. The team has a good core and they should be alright but if they really want to push on and challenge for trophies Giroud and Podolski need to fill RVP's boots and they need to bring in some more quality in depth as last season they were forced to play the likes of Coquelin who lack the experience needed to win trophies.

Please leave a comment, I'd love to know who you think Arsenal should bring in or how well you think they will do without RVP next season! I've added a thumbs up or thumbs down rating, please vote!

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Premier League 2011/2012 Team of the Season

After one of the most eventful campaigns in Premier League history, we have picked our 'Team of the Season' of the best 11 players in the league.

Goalkeeper:

In goal we have chosen Swansea's Michel Vorm. The swans' stopper has been crucial in their successful campaign and one of their most consistent performers. Not very well known until know he has proven himself to be among the best in the league with his fine form this season. Not just good at stopping shots, the Dutchman also had excellent distribution often starting off the flowing moves that Swansea have become so well known for.

Right Back:

At right back we have chosen Branislav Ivanovic. The big Serbian was one of Chelsea's standout performers last season often being the one who dragged them through tough games. The no nonsense centre-back was frequently used at right back last season showing his versatility and ability to adapt. He popped up to score a few times last season too, and when it mattered, as he scored 5 goals, his second best tally while at the club. The 28 year old was difficult to get past and dominant in the air, a great season for him in my opinion. Chelsea should do all the can to keep him as he showed last season he was a vital member of their team on a number of occassions.

Centre Back: 

Our first centre back in the team of the season is Manchester City's Vincent Kompany.The Belgian rock was a pivotal member of the team in their title winning season. His leadership was second to none and he certainly led by example. Kompany himself had a great season showing power and composure, Difficult to beat and quick enough to keep up with most he is solid at the back for City and he will be looking to carry on next season where he left off.

Centre Back: 

The second centre back is Fabriccio Collocini for Newcastle. He has revelled in a strong Newcastle side who have made much progress this season under new manager Alan Pardrew. It was the Argentine's first breakthrough season as previously he had failed to make a significant impact but boy did he break through! A rock at the back he can also bring the ball forward and distribute it well which can be a rare thing these days. Dangerous from corners and set pieces he had a great season and will be looking to build on it next year.

Left Back: 

At left back we have picked Ashley Cole. One of Chelsea's best this season and arguably one of the most consistent in the league. He has been solid for Chelsea  for numerous years now and has also been useful going forward. In my opinion he is simply the best left back in the world. Rarely caught out of position he is speedy and a very intelligent player. Does a great job for the team and fills in when he needs to. Invaluable to Chelsea and another great season for him.

Right Midfield: 

At right midfield it is the young Junior Hoillett. The Blackburn Rovers winger has showed great potential this season and almost dragged the team forward last season with his solo performances. Unfortunately he couldn't prevent them from being relegated but I'm sure a big team will come in for him as the young lad has bags of talent. Has electrifying pace, quick feet, good dribbling and can hit a beautiful curling shot as we saw a few times this season. This kid is destined for great things and at such a young age he can only get better.

Centre Midfield:

The first central midfielder in the team is David Silva of Manchester City. The diminutive Spaniard is a crafty player who beautifully weaves his way through teams unlocking their defence with a beautiful pass. You cannot afford to give him time on the ball as he glides past men before unleashing a killer ball. An intelligent player who works hard for his team he popped up with a few goals himself but prefers to set others up. A great signing he has been since joining, emphasised by the fact that Real Madrid are said to be chasing his signature.

Centre Midfield:

Silva is joined in the team of the season by his Manchester City team-mate Yaya Toure. The powerful Ivorian is a crucial player for Mancini's men. He contributes all over the pitch. The complete midfielder, he can pass, tackle, shoot and head. When you look up you certainly don't want to see him running towards you as he is quick across the ground before unleashing a monster of a shot. Another good signing by City he is missed dearly when not playing. He had a great season being the standout player in a number of games.

Left Midfield:

No doubt one of the signings of the season, Juan Mata of Chelsea has been excellent this campaign. He just pipped Gareth Bale due to the fact he settled and performed so well in his first season in the Premier League. Sometimes player in an attacking midfield role he is creativity personified sliding the ball through on a number of occasions. An intelligent playmaker with brilliant ball control making it difficult for others to win the ball off of him. Made Chelsea tick this season and was missed when he didn't play too. Chips in with a few goals also. 

Striker:

After scoring 37 goals in all competition it was quite frankly impossible to leave out Robin Van Persie. Undoubtedly Arsenal's main man, the flying Dutchman simply could not stop scoring. Without him Arsenal struggled and his clinical finishing helped them climb up the table after a poor start. This has been the season where he has really pushed forward and shown himself as one of the best forwards in the world. Scores all sorts of goals and has a cracking left foot able to deliver from anywhere. Arsenal should do everything in their power to hang on to him as he is so important to their team.

Striker: 

The striker that joins Van Persie is Newcastle's Papiss Cisse. The Senegalese star instantly became a hero after joining in January. He instantly settled after the African Cup of Nations and  showed himself to be a goal machine. Vital to Newcastle's success he banged in a goal most weeks on Tyneside and another contender for signing of the season as Pardrew appears have found a real gem in this boy. Lightning quick and unleashes a powerful shot he is a target for the top clubs after a great half season. 

So there we have it our team of the season 2011/2012. Please leave a comment adding who you think should be included and any feedback on the article as I'd love to know what others think. 

Thanks for reading! Hope you enjoyed it! :-)