No5: Dimitar Berbatov
Despite an £11million price tag, Berbatov’s arrival last summer barely registered as the World Cup grabbed the headlines. Yet Spurs pulled off one of the coups of the decade as the brilliant Bulgarian lit up White Hart Lane. Power, pace, finishing and intelligence - the ex-Bayer Leverkusen star has it all. Berbatov is arguably the league’s most complete frontman...
No4: Didier Drogba
... but then there is one person at Chelsea. Drogba could possibly be in his last season at Stamford Bridge but Blues fans will never forget his contribution in their title-winning seasons. After initially struggling to adapt, the Ivory Coast ace transformed into one of the most fearsome finishers in the Premier League. And this season, Drogba is again at his sizzling best.
No3: Michael Essien
This list may be dominated by glamour players but occasionally a powerhouse gatecrashes the party. Essien cannot be classed as find after costing £24million from Lyon but he certainly does the dirty work at the Bridge as the stars take the glory. The Ghana midfielder is exactly the type of player you want on your side when the going gets tough.
No2: Cesc Fabregas
Arsene Wenger has nurtured some gems in the past but none of them can beat the talents of this Spanish star. When Patrick Vieira left Arsenal, Fabregas ensured fansÂ’ fears were instantly extinguished with some immense performances. The midfielder is now the rock of a reborn Gunners side - and letÂ’s not forget heÂ’s still only 20.
No1: Cristiano Ronaldo
Love him or hate him, thereÂ’s no denying RonaldoÂ’s talents. The winkerÂ’s future in the Premier League lay in tatters after the 2006 World Cup but the Manchester United ace proved heÂ’s a tough cookie. And 18 months later, he can claim to be one of the worldÂ’s best players after silencing the boo-boys with some truly exceptional displays.