Welcome one, welcome all, to the third annual top 100 English Premier League players. Before you grab that mouse and hurry to the bottom I ask you to stay with me please here at the top, let me guide you through this process. I hope you have half as much fun reading this as I did putting it together. Make no mistake this is 100 per cent a KJ exclusive list. No one else here at The Score had any input into this so that’s basically me giving you the ‘don’t hold anyone else accountable for the opinions’ speech. It’s also a list I am very proud of. I take this seriously and wouldn’t even attempt to put together such a project if I didn’t think I could fairly pull it off. Being able to watch, literally, hours and hours of full games (not edited highlight versions) is a huge help and something I wouldn’t even be able to do if I lived in England once again.

The amazing thing about doing a list like this is how often it changes on a day-to-day basis. Although I really don’t give it too much consideration in the autumn months I am always thinking about it a little and start the diligent process by November. Regulars will be aware that as this list hits the blog on New Year’s Eve night, for the second straight year, it’s a list I’ve put together based around players who I would want on my team right now. If a player is simply higher on the list then he is simply a better player, in my opinion, right now than the one underneath him. This is easier said than done, mind you. Of course, sticking to this process, means you have to account for current form but I’ve also accounted for genuine talent. I’ve been around long enough and watched hours upon hours of games to know a great player from a good player. That being said, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so please feel free to let me know what you agree and disagree with.

Just like past years there are once again players who do not qualify. This is the ‘not played enough to be judged’ category featuring many players who have been injured more than they have played in 2009, including for a third successive year its founder member, Ledley King. Also in this class are top players who simply haven’t played enough games at this level to be assessed. Before we get to the ‘real’ list I would like you to be aware of all those present and accounted for in this class: Benjani, Michael Johnson, Martin Petrov (Man City), Fabian Delph (Aston Villa), Ledley King, Jonathan Woodgate (Spurs), Dan Agger, Alberto Aquilaini (Liverpool), Tomas Rosicky, Eduardo (Arsenal), Yuri Zhirkov (Chelsea), Owen Hargreaves (Man Utd).

As some of you are aware, three weeks ago I asked the knowledgeable regulars to cast their votes for the remaining three places of the list from a squad of 25 good players, who, in my opinion, were borderline picks. You can read that blog here and find a link to last year’s top 100. Well, here comes the first confession (of many) to you all. I actually had five spots remaining at that time, but only asked for three votes so I wouldn’t get a massive list of players. Three players were the overwhelming winners from that poll, however, there were some players from that squad who you didn’t vote in but who are at the back of this list. This is down to the fact that these players simply have played too well of late not to get in. I will alert you to each of these as we go. Once again, as usual, I have started at 100 and make my way down to one. With each player comes some analysis. This is not your usual standard ‘read a blog in 3 minutes’ item. Take your time, get yourself a drink and let me take you through it player by player.

Happy reading everyone and, more importantly, have a happy, healthy and safe 2010.

100. Shaun Wright-Phillips (Man City) – Every once in a while players in sport stop climbing the ‘potential’ ladder and plateau. SWP is a nice player with electrifying pace but hasn’t done enough to put himself amongst the elite. One of those voted in by the regular bloggers and a choice I had no problem with.

99. Kevin Davies (Bolton) – The Bolton forward has been a cult hero at the Reebok. He is one of the hardest-working forwards in the league and although, perhaps, misses more chances than he scores he creates a lot of issues both physically and mentally for opposing defenders. For the second straight year Davies is voted in by the bloggers and moves up one place from last year.

98. John Carew (Aston Villa) – No reader has seen ‘Big John’ as many times as myself and he was very much a borderline pick for this list. Carew is one of those forwards who does a lot of things right. Incredibly, scored in 40 per cent of the games he played in during the ’08/09 season. A higher percentage than any other player. Once again, excellent choice by the bloggers.

97. Mohamed Diame (Wigan) – Welcome to the first eyebrow riser of the list. Diame has been a shining light in a poor Wigan team this season. A true midfield dynamo he has energy to burn, has excellent passing ability and is great with both feet. Didn’t put him on the short list for you to vote him in because he wouldn’t have made it in based on name alone, but, trust me, he deserves his spot.

96. Carlos Cuellar (Aston Villa) – The second Villa player on the list already and a player who made a late push on to the list based on his form in the past two months, something that has coincided with the excellent form of his club. Cuellar wasn’t loved at Villa Park following his arrival from Ibrox but he has become a very valuable part of a solid backline and his versatility (also can play right back) has helped Martin O’Neill get the team out of a lot of jams.

95. Micah Richards (Man City) – Richards doesn’t fall into the plateau category like teammate SWP quite yet but is currently travelling on that stretch of road. Has enormous talent but the jury amongst many seem to have concluded that he is far better at right back than in the middle. I disagree and think that under Roberto Mancini could excel. Strong, powerful and outstanding in the air, the sky remains the limit. He just needs to find a new map.

94. Michael Turner (Sunderland) - Second confession of the blog. Turner was great at Hull last season and almost made last year’s blog and, upon reflection, should have. This year’s ‘Turner’ could be Roger Johnson by the way but let’s not digress. Turner is a model centre half. Tough as nails, good reader of the game and good speed for a big man.

93. Tim Howard (Everton) – The love for Howard in the vote-in by readers pushed him a couple more positions higher than earlier. Howard was always going to be in my top 100 and I was not surprised when he got more votes than any of the 25 players listed. One of the most consistent goalkeepers in the league. No surprise that defenders raise their stock in front of him.

92. Peter Crouch (Tottenham) – Footy Show regulars know too well about my feelings on Crouch but he deserves a spot in the top 100 based on the recent changes I’ve seen to his game. He is definitely benefiting from playing with a smart football team and Harry Redknapp should be commended for fitting Crouch into his team rather than fitting the team around Crouch. Past managers should take note.

91. Ryan Shawcross (Stoke) - This kid has a fine future in the Premier League. Shawcross only turned 22 in October and continues to grow and grow at this level. What I like most about Shawcross is how he’s performed in big matches for Stoke. Extremely reliable, I am sure he is the first name Tony Pulis writes down. Also, contributes with his head on a regular occasion at the other end.

90. Gary Cahill (Bolton) - England seemingly has no problem producing excellent centre-halves and Cahill is a borderline England candidate in the near future along with other players on this list. Cahill’s recent drop in form, I believe, comes down to being paired with Zat Knight along with a new desire by ex-manager Gary Megson to open up their style. Outstanding with the ball at his feet he is made to play in a much more skilled system in years to come.

89. Branislav Ivanovic (Chelsea) – Like Cuellar, Ivanovic took his time to adjust to the Premier League but both are now excelling on good teams. Like Cuellar, the Serb can also play right back and centre-half and is excellent in the air, meaning he is often a target for Chelsea on set-pieces. In the absence of Jose Bosingwa, he has also adapted to the role of an attacking full back at Stamford Bridge. Another player not voted as a top 3 from the bloggers but one I couldn’t ignore.

88. Marouane Fellaini (Everton) – One of the league’s most polarizing figures, you’ll be lucky to find two people with the same view on him in the whole of one stadium! Not Goodison Park though. They are fully aware that this guy is more than just a tough, physical midfielder. Incredible engine, supremely gifted on the ball and in the air and a wonderful knack of getting crucial goals at crucial times. Scary to think of what he can be when he grows up!

87. Stiliyan Petrov (Aston Villa) – One of the most improved players in the Premier League over the past 12 months, Petrov is reveling in a defensive midfield role at Villa Park. The club’s player of the season of 08/09 is a fan favourite now and ‘Stan’ is a perfect compliment to the skillful fast players around him. Without him, the others wouldn’t be able to produce.

86. Wes Brown (Man Utd) – Brown doesn’t make the all-injury team because he has played enough to be reliable – just. However, it is a measure of his poor luck that he got injured when the club were in the middle of a horrendous defensive crisis. Brown, though, is one of the league’s best pure defenders and can play any position well. A shoe-in for South Africa and could start at right back in England’s opening game.

85. Carlton Cole (West Ham) – Confession number three: I do not like every player on this list, but sometimes players do so much that you have to re-think your position on them. Cole was a player 12 months ago that I had little time for, but under Zola has managed to create an enormous amount of problems for defenders using his strength and height. Like Petrov, and many others on this list, a much improved player.

84. Jack Rodwell (Everton) – I do worry about the hype machine eating Rodwell with certain writers already talking about him as the future England captain. However, he is an outstanding talent who one day could reach incredible heights in this league. Born March 1991 (just say that to yourself again!) the teenager is currently under a wonderful mentor in David Moyes and will get valuable opportunities at Goodison Park. Hopefully, he remains there for a long time because that will only allow him to grow and grow.

83. Jonny Evans (Man Utd) – United has a real star here. Rio Ferdinand’s injury concerns, and form issues, sent shudders around Old Trafford at the end of last season and the beginning of this season, but every time Evans is asked to step up he exceeds expectations. Evans is very calm at the back and has excelled in big occasions for the champions.

82. Robbie Keane (Tottenham) – Keane ends a tough 2009 with a spot outside the top 80. The problem for the Irishman is that he now has two managers in Rafa Benitez and Harry Redknapp who don’t trust him to start in this league regularly. I believe he is still one of the best finishers in the league, but it appears that thought is becoming more of a minority. Likely not even in this league next year.

81. Lee Cattermole (Sunderland) – Never have defensive midfielders received so much admiration than this era. Cattermole is a modern day version of David Batty, but is much better on the ball than the former Leeds star. I love his aggression, and there is a reason why Steve Bruce went right after him once he got from Sunderland, practically stealing him from Wigan. Has the potential to play for England often in the future.

80. Tom Huddlestone (Spurs) – The future of England’s midfield is in good shape, eh? Huddlestone is not as tenacious as Cattermole, but is supremely gifted in both an attacking and defensive way. Excellent athletic ability and passer of the ball, he has flourished under Harry Redknapp who sold the excellent Didier Zokora knowing full well he had an ideal replacement.

79. Deco (Chelsea) – Confession number 4. There are a number of ‘enigmas’ on this list and they were the most difficult to place. These kind of players can be top 30 potential when they are great but often flatter to deceive. I do like Deco, he is a wonderful reader of a game and his off the ball movement is first class, but he is too inconsistent to be any higher.

78. Craig Bellamy (Man City) – When all the summer signings arrived at Eastlands many people thought he would be on his way out. How wrong we all were. The Welshman has been one of the club’s best player’s this season. Outstanding in the left wing role, he has showed a great attitude for the defensive area of his game. The big test now comes under a manager who isn’t likely to put an arm around him so often.

77. Sebastien Bassong (Spurs) – One of the hidden gems of the Premier League, Bassong adapted to the Premier League as quick as any foreign defender in recent memory. A rare shining light on a poor Newcastle team last season, he was astutely picked up by Redknapp the moment they went down. Bassong’s biggest asset is the calmness he shows on the ball, but he is equally as good in the air and has become the club’s best defender.

76. Lorik Cana (Sunderland) – Wonderful talent and perfect player for this league. Already the Sunderland captain, following his leadership role at Marseille, he has formed a great partnership with Lee Cattermole at the heart of the Black Cats midfield. Not many midfields in world football will win that physical battle. Cana has quickly become a role model among his teammates and is the ideal leader of a team that has high hopes for the near future.

75. Stephen Ireland (Man City) – Ireland may be one of the fittest players in this league. With a terrific engine, he is an ideal player for the highly-skilled Man City who relies a lot on Ireland through the midfield. Often deployed as the attacking member of the 3 of a 4-3-2-1, Ireland’s runs into the box can cause havoc for the opposition who often don’t know how to cover him. Excellent finisher also. Still only 23.

74. Pablo Zabaleta (Man City) – Back-to-back players from the blue side of Manchester and this one could come as a surprise to some. For me, Zabaleta is one of the most underrated players in this league. Extremely comfortable on the ball, very few players get around the outside of him to the byline and personally I think he is an ideal player for new manager Roberto Mancini at the right back spot. However, he can equally be deployed in an effective central midfield role.

73. Yossi Benayoun (Liverpool) – Sharman’s favourite player makes this list after a wonderful 2009. Not too many players at Anfield have Yossi’s creative instincts and another valuable asset: desire. When the Reds have found themselves with their backs against the wall, Yossi often comes up big when needed. Not afraid to shoot the ball. A quality that sounds all too easy but, trust me, is a valuable one.

72. Glen Johnson (Liverpool) – The former Portsmouth right back started the season in outstanding form but, like Liverpool, has seen his form dip recently. I think, personally, he continued to play with an injury (which has now sidelined him) but defensive question marks remain over Johnson and always will. No one doubts his ability to go forward but he will never be a top class international right back because of his heading and defending in one-on-one situations.

71. Robert Green (West Ham) – Goalkeepers are never easy to place in a list like this. Many casual football fans around this earth often see goalkeepers in a poor light thanks to rare mistakes shown on highlight reels. However, the really good goalkeepers, like Green, consistently show week-in-week-out why they are paid the big money. One of the best pure shot stoppers this league has seen in sometime.

70. Brad Friedel (Aston Villa) – Villa’s fine wine keeps getting better and better. Friedel has made the move to a top team, changing his role, nicely. Not involved as much as he was at Blackburn, the American is always there when his team needs a big save. So reliable that when he made an error against Chelsea this season people actually couldn’t ever remember seeing anything like that from him before.

69. Joe Hart (Birmingham) – Birmingham’s form has been well documented, as has their defence, and the key to that is Hart. Birmingham play quite open a lot of the time and Hart has actually made more saves than any goalkeeper in the league so far this season, showing a good defensive team isn’t always down to its system. I actually think the firing of Mark Hughes could help Hart and Birmingham secure a full-time marriage. Should definitely be a major part of England’s plans this summer.

68. Richard Dunne (Aston Villa) – I remember seeing Dunne as a young Everton defender in the late 90′s and was very impressed. Amazingly, they let him go and he became a terrific servant at Man City. Last season had arguably one of his poorest seasons under the wide-open style of Mark Hughes and some believed he had lost his step. Martin O’Neill was much wiser and Dunne has been the best player at Villa this season. Terrific leader and a great threat in the air in both boxes.

67. Ryan Giggs (Man Utd) – Giggs has had a dream 2009 when it comes to personal honours, and I will always say his Player of The Year award was nothing short of a disgrace. However, he continues to be a fine player and, at 36, is a real game-changer for the champions. Often people concentrate his magic on the ball but Giggs, to me, has always been one of the best runners off the ball as well.

66. Joleon Lescott (Man City) – Exhibit A in the case of how to place a very good player who is going through a tough time right now. Lets get the facts straight first: Lescott is nowhere near a 22 million pound defender. However, it remains a fact that he is a very good defender who needs a good defensive system around him and somehow needs to shed the fact that everyone always sees the number over his head. The latter may be tough but the former is suddenly now very possible.

65. Darren Bent (Sunderland) – I actually think Harry Redknapp made a big mistake selling Bent. Can you imagine Defoe and Bent on the same team? Forget that they are very similar. These days you need big squads with brilliant players, and Bent is a true predator in front of the goal, and that is a very valuable commodity. Another astute signing by Steve Bruce. Bent’s 20 goals this season can carry the Black Cats into the top half comfortably.

64. Alexandre Song (Arsenal) – Three years ago Arsene Wenger bought Song for one million pounds in a move that made little waves even in the London press. Three years on the jury is in and once again it’s another case of daylight robbery by the Frenchman. Song is one of many bright Arsenal talents who can reach the very top in this game. I call him one of Cesc Fabregas’s bodyguards. He is a real commander in the heart of the midfield and allows Cesc to do what he does best. Incredibly underrated by many. Not Mr Wenger.

63. Nico Kranjcar (Spurs) – This is not an easy read for Pompey fans. Fifteen months ago Kranjcar’s stock was so high that then manager Harry Redknapp turned down offers over 12 million pounds calling him ‘unavailable’. Twelve months later, Harry, at Spurs, stole the soon-to-be- free agent for a cut price two million and the Croation has been brilliant at White Hart Lane. Excellent technique and shooter, Kranjcar has filled in perfectally for the injured Luka Modric.

62. John Obi Mikel (Chelsea) – Every cloud has a silver lining, and although Chelsea missed Michael Essien tremendously during his long absence earlier this year, Mikel grew up into an excellent player as the valuable defensive midfielder at Stamford Bridge. Mikel covers a lot of ground and is more than just a holding player. Can distribute the ball well and is a very difficult player to move off the ball.

61. Edwin Van der Sar (Man Utd) – One of the most overrated goalkeepers of this generation and one of the most underrated goalkeepers of this generation all in one. You don’t always know what you’ve got until it’s gone, and regular injuries for the Dutchman have led to many issues at the back for United. Ridiculously voted by UEFA as the best goalkeeper in Europe, but that shouldn’t overshadow that he is excellent and rarely loses concentration. Remains a poor goalkicker.

60. Anderson (Man Utd) – Incredibly polarizing figure. Many excellent football minds have argued over the young Brazilian and will do so for years to come. Personally, I absolutely love Anderson. It’s a measure of how good he is that I still hear people refer to him as a holding midfielder. This kid can do it all but is still very much an attacking central midfielder. If he played more often, or for a different team, he’d be higher on this list, but he’s got lots of time ahead of him. Wonderful left foot and a player who is always big in the big games.

59. Jamie Carragher (Liverpool) – Carra will be 32 next month and this season has started to show his age. I certainly think he has lost a little bit of pace. However, like Anderson, the Liverpool defender is yet to disappoint his team in a big game. Clearly disillusioned under Benitez, Carragher has it in him to turn his career back on track as soon as a manager can pick a regular centre-half next to him and stop using him as an emergency right back.

58. Maynor Figueroa (Wigan) – The Steve Bruce signings tree continues to blossom. Figueroa is not a good left back he is a very good left back. Rose to fame after his wonder goal against Stoke last month but that made no impression on this list. I’ve been a big fan for a long time. Very calm left back who does everything right. Likely too good to play in that wide open style of Wigan. Needs a move to improve his game.

57. Sylvain Distin (Everton) – Sorry Pompey. This was the steal of 2009. After a long soap-opera of selling Lescott, David Moyes moved quickly to get a better player for a far less amount. Distin still hasn’t been able to show how good he is to the Goodison faithful having contracted the Toffee Injury Disease but Distin is a player you can build a defence around. Extremely gifted and quick he is incredibly controlled and calm. Amazingly, still no French caps.

56. Samir Nasri (Arsenal) – Gunners fans are still to see the best of Nasri but it’s coming. Nasri is healthy again after a broken leg and is now an automatic selection for Wenger who plays him as one of the two wingers behind the frontman. Nasri probably doesn’t score enough goals but his passing ability is excellent and he rarely gives the ball away.

55. Michael Carrick (Man Utd) – It’s difficult to call Carrick a ‘Fergie Flop’ following his 18 million pound move over three years ago but he does tend to leave you wondering if he really has a top gear. He is also a great passer of the ball and rarely gives it away but it is his creative side that leaves people wanting more.

54. Louis Saha (Everton) – When healthy, Saha is one of the best strikers in the league. Problem is it is a big ‘when’. Not injured enough to make Ledley King’s classroom but Saha is close. Has now developed a long, illustrious history of injuries that means even when he is healthy he must be treated carefully. Brilliant with both feet and a wonderful ability to know where the back of the net is, Saha is one of many Frenchman enjoying his time in England.

53. Petr Cech (Chelsea) – Cech keeps falling and falling in my mind. Once one of the world’s elite goalkeepers he has had far too many bad games in the last two years to now be considered in that class. He does, however, keep his team in games by making big saves and, with the exception of crosses, remains a solid goalkeeper to play in front of for his defenders.

52. Tim Cahill (Everton) – ‘Tiny Tim’ as he is known by the Goodison faithful, certainly does a lot for the Toffees despite his stature. The first player since the legend Dixie Dean to score in three Merseyside derbies, Cahill, perhaps, should be known as ‘Big game Tim’. Incredible how much room he often can make for himself on set-pieces and at 5’10” has a wonderful ability to out-jump much bigger opponents. Another thing I love about Cahill is that he has a special ‘winning’ attitude that not all players have. When things get tough, if he is on my side, I would feel fine. Typical Aussie in that way.

51. Kolo Toure (Man City) – I want you to go back and read what I wrote about Toure in 2008 please. See number 45. Don’t get distracted and stay there for long though! Seems like Toure’s issues continue. I still have faith in the Ivorian who is an excellent defender but it appears he will never reach elite class. Many defenders are higher than him on this list that Man City could have splashed cash on and, to me, is one of the real reasons for their failures so far.

50. Dimitar Berbatov (Man Utd) – Remember where you heard it first: ‘Fergie Flop’. Berbatov has been a major disappointment at Old Trafford. Has the ability to create something from nothing but far too often has the habit of creating nothing from something. Doesn’t work anywhere close to near enough. Simply not a Manchester United player.

49. Hugo Rodallega (Wigan) – If Rodallega is still playing at the DW Stadium next December he will be getting changed in the visitors changing room. Destined for big things, Rodallega has an incredible amount of skill on the ball and is one of a few Wigan stars who are likely to be snapped up soon. Many shrewd managers will watch closely how the South American adapts to the winter. Expect him to keep up the good performances.

48. Nigel De Jong (Man City) – A good old fashioned tough (as they come) tackling midfielder, De Jong looks better and better in every game. Helped by a similar player, with better vision, in Gareth Barry, the Dutchman has one of the main keys to Man City’s pursuit of breaking down the ‘Big 4 door’ and taking control once inside. Was brilliant in 2008 at the European Championships and expect him to do the same in South Africa.

47. Javier Mascherano (Liverpool) – Like many Liverpool players, Mascherano has slipped down these rankings over the last month. The Argentine was so good at the 2006 World Cup that I picked him in my World Cup XI. He has always been a player I admired and thought would do an outstanding job at Anfield but the truth is he has digressed lately and no longer grabs games by the scruff of the neck. Massive disappointment so far this season.

46. Matthew Upson (West Ham) – How long the Hammers keep Upson may play a significant role in their Premier League survival. The problem is the England defender is now far and away the best player at Upton Park that you have to believe he is now too good for what has become a far too average side. Upson is a tower of strength at the back and shows wonderful leadership qualities. A must for Fabio Capello next summer.

45. Brede Hangeland (Fulham) – The first signing of Roy Hodgson when he got to the Cottage and still, by some margin, his best. Hangeland is such a smart footballer that he always seems two plays ahead. Strikers who are much quicker than him rarely get the best of him because of his ability to read the game. Tall and physical he can mix it with the best.

44. James Milner (Aston Villa) – Is there anything this lad cannot do? (well, maybe, take penalties but that’s a different story.) Wonderful right-sided midfield player who can often be found tracking back as a right back. Now playing centrally and looking like he’s played there his whole career. Full of confidence right now, Milner will be picked for the World Cup and you will see a lot of the word ‘versatility’. That almost diminishes what he can do. Overall, close to being a complete footballer.

43. Antonio Valencia (Man Utd) - Valencia was given the toughest job of the summer, filling the boots of Cristiano Ronaldo, and although he took a few weeks to settle in he now looks like the player he was at Wigan. Valencia is very talented and dangerous on the ball, with the combination of his pace and his ability to hold the ball close to his feet. Loves to attack the white line and that’s a great asset to have as a winger. Will never score too many goals but that’s not his game.

42. William Gallas (Arsenal) – The much-maligned defender had a decent 2009 after keeping his mouth shut and just doing what he does best: play centre-half. 2008 may have been awful for him but he turned it around with some excellent displays in the heart of the Arsenal defence. Doesn’t hurt that he remains a very valuable player in the opposing box, regularly coming up with valuable goals for the Gunners.

41. Joe Cole (Chelsea) – Tough year for Joe Cole but lately he is looking very much back to his best following a long spell on the sidelines through injury. Cole’s ability to run at defenders and take them on is refreshing and he is still one of the few players who people instantly stand up to watch closer the moment he runs at defenders. A big six months awaits and will go along way to seeing whether he plays in South Africa as a regular or a used substitute.

40. Gabby Agbonlahor (Aston Villa) – The 23-year-old striker is slowly becoming a wonderful target-man at Villa Park. Agbonlahor was always a very good player with an incredible amount of pace but his game is maturing more and more and his runs off defenders’ shoulders are seeing rewards. Still has a lot to learn to reach the very top and needs to score regularly, instead of in streaks, but is full value to make the top 40.

39. Phil Jagielka (Everton) – What a massive loss for Everton he has become. In my opinion, Jagielka could play for England for years to come once he gets his fitness back. Still only 27, I think he is just a touch better than the likes of Upson and Lescott thanks to his past role of a midfielder. The former Sheffield United player is extremely comfortable on the ball and Everton played so well under Jagielka last season because he was almost a sweeper at times. Maybe too late to get on that plane for South Africa as he continues to rehab from knee surgery.

38. Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool) – Following last year’s list I got a lot of responses from readers about Dirk Kuyt saying I had him way too high. Last year he was #23 and having slipped to #38 this year possibly those guys were right. I still, however, love Kuyt’s ability to be both supplier and scorer. Terrific workrate and overall a great guy, which Liverpool need more of.

37. Jussi Jaaskelainen (Bolton) – Remains one of the game’s most underrated goalkeepers. If he played for a different club, or country for that matter, he would be a superstar. Outstanding shot stopper and commander from set-pieces. Hidden gem in Bolton.

36. Jose Bosingwa (Chelsea) – Many people have different opinions on the Portugal right back, much like Anderson, but the facts remain he is incredibly talented both going forward and defensively. He isn’t afraid to run at opposing defenders and get forward to help the army of attacking threats around him. I do have a couple of question marks over his performances in the big matches of 08/09 but, before he got hurt this season, he showed me no signs of that this season.

35. Robinho (Man City) – Here comes another confession. I almost lost sleep over where to put this guy. One week he is a sublime world class talent. The next he is an absolute waster, and I know many of you can insert your own adjective to replace that one. His current form, and attitude, is no doubt miserable but only a select view of players in the world can do what he does which is why he is placed so high. Actually tells you everything that I have to apologize for putting him at #35 when a talent like his should be a regular in the top 10.

34. Ashley Young (Aston Villa) – The seventh and final Villa player is their best. Forget my opinions on David Beckham for one moment. It is a fact that it’s a travesty that he will keep Young from going to South Africa. Incredible pace, can play on both wings and one of the best passers and crossers in the entire league. Young is a terrific footballer who now must mature and stop the diving and playacting that occasionally spoil his game. Villa must do everything they can to keep him for a long time. He holds the keys to the plays that open so many of their goals.

33. Michael Ballack (Chelsea) - Ballack has been sitting comfortably for far too long in his professional career. Far too happy to pick up a great salary and be a bit-part player in a big movie instead of working at becoming the lead role. Is probably in the middle of his finest season at Stamford Bridge right now but that, perhaps, says more about his past years than this one. On his day he is a force who can score from anywhere. Too bad that day doesn’t come too often. Absolutely magnicifent for Germany, which only teases you more.

32. Rio Ferdinand (Man Utd) – I would not be surprised to hear from Man Utd fans telling me how Rio should be much higher. You may be right and it was clear his poor form was down to injury but, at the end of the day, there are some wonderful players ahead of him. This is absolutely not a knock on Rio. He remains a strong, tough defender and a good reader of the game. His problem has always been his technique on the ball and that’s why he couldn’t hide when he was playing injured.

31. Denilson (Arsenal) – Little wonder Arsene Wenger continues to let big-name players leave when you have so many diamonds in the rough and no one benefited more from some much-publicised departures (Hleb, Flamini, Gilberto Silva) than Denilson. Known as a defensive midfielder, the 21-year-old Brazilian is a magician with the ball at his feet and is simply a wonderful footballer than he can play in any midfield or attacking position behind a central striker. Captain of Brazil at every level from age 15, it’s simply a matter of time when he receives his first senior cap.

30. Wilson Palacios (Spurs) – On January 21st 2009 Harry Redknapp committed highway robbery in Wigan and nobody knew it. Palacios, at 12 million pounds, was reported, by some, as being a lot of money. What a joke. Wouldn’t be surprised if he is the first name Redknapp writes down on his teamsheet every week. One of the fittest players in this league, Palacios simply never stops running. Wonderful tough-tackling midfielder who rarely puts in a bad tackle because he can read the game so well. Spurs have lost just 8 of the 30 Premier League games he’s started for them.

29. Thomas Vermaelen (Arsenal) – Time for me to toot my own horn here. As soon as Arsenal signed the Belgian I couldn’t tell enough people what a great signing it was and oh what a player he is turning into. There are not too many central defenders I would like to have a camera follow for the entire 90 minutes of a match but I’d be fine watching him. Incredible composed, wonderful with the ball at his feet and has a marvelous ability to score goals, many of which have made more people aware of him. Also has great leadership attributes that I see coming through more and more as he settles down at the Emirates.

28. Aaron Lennon (Spurs) – Incredibly still only 22, the league’s shortest player had a superb 2009. Blessed with terrific pace, Lennon has taken his game to the next level by having the confidence to terrorize opponents and isn’t afraid to attack the white line before swinging over a cross, a skill that goes unseen in other Premier League games each week. Lennon has been talked about as a golden boy for years and is thriving under the leadership of Harry Redknapp. To this day I still remember that day in June 2005 when Tottenham bought him for one million pounds from a financial-stricken Leeds United. I was absolutely stunned at the bargain Spurs got while the other teams were sleeping on the summer beaches.

27. Abou Diaby (Arsenal) – A run of Gunners continues and I won’t be surprised if this raised your eyebrows too. Diaby is, to me, the second most improved player in this league in 2009 and is a player who continued to climb and climb these standings with a run of wonderful performances. For a tall player, the Frenchman has incredible technique on the ball and opponents often struggle to get him off the ball. A true midfield dynamo that can play in a holding role or as a good old fashioned number ten, the sky is the limit for this 23-year-old who already has five Premier League goals this season.

26. Darren Fletcher (Man Utd) - Ladies and Gentlemen may I present to you the most improved player in this league in 2009. Those who watch Manchester United often saw something coming at the beginning of last season but even they couldn’t have dreamt of this. Fletcher is without doubt the new leader of a very talented midfield class at Old Trafford. Incredibly composed on the ball, the Scot has improved his passing and dribbling a lot. Equally talented without the ball, Fletcher covers an incredibly amount of ground and has been absolutely brilliant in big matches for his club. Cruelly denied to see how he matched against Barcelona’s dream midfield duo in the Champions League final but could get another chance soon.

25. Gareth Barry (Man City) – Another player I expect to get a lot of comments about. However, before you write it please ask yourselves how many times you have really watched Barry play. Not his team. Just Barry. What I like about the former Aston Villa player is just how much he continues to improve. Barry has always been a very good player but just when you think he has reached a level he climbs to a new one. Surrounded by a lot of star players and a lot of recent turmoil at Eastlands he has been the club’s best outfield player this season. The England international does a lot of dirty work that often goes unnoticed but also contributes to a lot of their goals as well. Great passer and crosser of the ball.

24. Carlos Tevez (Man City) - A player of incredible ability, Tevez remains a star player who is yet to find that top level of consistency. On an excellent current run of scoring, the Argentine is once again showing us all the flashes of a true genius once again. Times like this remind us of his final months in both a Hammers and United shirt but far too many games come along in between where he disappears not only off the scoresheet but also off the radar on the field. When he is on his game, though, he is without doubt one of the best finishers in the league and for someone who is small in stature he is very strong on the ball.I often look at him and wonder if the ball is glued to his boot.

23. Jermain Defoe (Spurs) – Fletcher and Diaby are my top two in most improved players but Defoe rounds out the podium. Exactly one year ago in this list I wrote the words ‘never understood why Spurs sold him. Will be interesting to see what happens in the next 30 days.’ Turned out that Spurs righted and wrong and Defoe has had a brilliant year back at the Lane. Always was a terrific finisher and now has found a great level of consistency. 2009 was the year he turned into a great player who can now be relied upon to get goals at the international stage.

22. Mikel Arteta (Everton) – Although the blue Spanish Scouse hasn’t played in some time he doesn’t qualify for the Ledley King class because he played a lot more than any of those. Arteta was cruelly robbed of a place in the FA Cup final after his injury at St James’ Park but was a massive part of Everton’s run to Wembley and a place in the top 5. A true magician in the midfield, Arteta runs at opponents with reckless abandon and is equally as lethal from set-pieces. One of my favourite players in this league.

21. Bacary Sagna (Arsenal) – For me, the best right back in the Premier League and one of the best in world football. Like all Arsenal players, he has terrific technique and pace that serve him well in both the defending and attacking side of his game. Sagna rarely, if ever, gets beaten to the line by an opposing winger and can cause that same winger to have nightmares on defence, as many wingers have to drop back to help their left back against him. Accomplished in almost every aspect of the game.

20. Nicolas Anelka (Chelsea) – Whatever happened to Le Sulk? Anelka’s game has flourished around the superstars at Stamford Bridge and he is far more than just a pure goalscorer these days. This was none more evident recently when he was injured, proving that the role he fills was a difficult one to replace. Modern day football requires forwards to work very hard, run a lot, be defensively responsible and sometimes play very deep. Anelka does all of these things very well. Finally, he also has a great eye for the goal too.

19. Pepe Reina (Liverpool) – Rafael Bentitez isn’t the first Liverpool manager to sign a lot of bad players and he won’t be the last but his capture of Jose Manuel Reina for seven million quid isn’t one and stands head and shoulders above any other as the most astute signing of his time at Anfield. Throughout Liverpool’s turbelant first half of this season he has remained his brilliant self even though the defence in front of him have been very inconsistent. Reina makes big save after big save, never makes a major mistake and is a real commander in the air.

18. Emmanuel Adebayor (Man City) – Here is another player who might find his name typed a lot in the comments below. The Togo international often leaves people with a whole host of different opinions on him. For the record here is mine: One of the most complete strikers in world football, superb reader of the game, brilliant at tracking back and coming deep to receive the ball, a real threat with pace while dribbling and a sublime finisher. Unfortunately, like many stars, shows flashes of poor temperament and a bad attitude and that is why he is not a top 10 player.

17. John Terry (Chelsea) – There is a lot to like in a defender who is incredibly reliable, physical, vocal and commanding in the air. Terry in many ways is the complete package and he clearly is rated highly by many having picked up his third UEFA defender of the year award at the end of last season. Has been called overrated and underrated by so many its almost funny. So where do I stand you ask? Personally I think he is slightly overrated. Is prone to the odd mistake, getting caught watching the ball in key situations. Still a very good player though.

16. Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea) – I have always believed Carvalho is better than Terry and that will likely never change but they are much closer than in year’s past. ‘Ricky’ is much more comfortable with the ball at his feet and reads the game so well that he almost plays like a good old fashioned sweeper. Carvalho’s remarkable ability to get hurt, though, remains the only negative but when he is fully fit he is easily one of the finest defenders in the world.

15. Robin Van Persie (Arsenal) – Even with a severe ankle injury occuring in October, 2009 was a very kind year to RVP. Van Persie is now the number one striker on a team who relies solely on that player to perform multiple tasks throughout the game. The Dutchman does all of this at an outstanding level: Drop deep to confuse central defenders, run the channels, turn defenders inside out, shoot with both feet, have the ability to pick the far corners out of the goal to beat the goalkeeper. On the cusp of becoming a true World Class striker. Needs a big few months of rehab but could make it to the next level in South Africa.

14. Shay Given (Man City) – Apologizes to those who already know this but Given’s play has almost become integral in confirming my status as an analyst in this game. Many an analyst have sat next to me on the couch on a Sunday and laughed at me when I called him the best goalkeeper in the league. I named him that in this list last year (and many disagreed) and again he wins the title this year. In 2009, Given went on to prove many people wrong and ensure that I was indeed correct. In a recent poll on a Sunday morning, asking who the league’s best goalie was, Given finished first, so it is nice to see that he is getting the recognition he deserves now he is playing for a good side. For the record no goalkeeper makes as many great saves as the Irishman. His shot stopping abilities are second to none, he never falls asleep on a play and is the best goalkeeper at reacting in a split second to a shot in front of him. World Class.

13. Gael Clichy (Arsenal) - Without doubt the most underrated player in the league. I absolutely love my attacking wing backs and Clichy is one of the world’s best and one of the best secrets in world football. Never has a bad game for the Gunners, lightning quick and very comfortable on the ball he is a regular threat in both boxes.

12. Ashley Cole (Chelsea) - One of the most hated players in the league is now one of the best. Cole has emerged as a legitimate contender for one of the best left back’s in the world, alongside the two players who sandwich him on this list. Not blessed with outstanding speed, like the others, Cole makes up for it with a decent top gear and his ability to read the game at such a high level. Loves to get forward to help the army of talented players in front of him but is rarely caught out of position. Has played a lot of very important games in his career and that experience currently leaves his club and country with very little to worry about in that position.

11. Patrice Evra (Man Utd) – Showing I am not shy at changing my opinions I have now changed sides on the Clichy vs Evra debate. Last year I had Clichy at #12 and Evra at #25. Little seperates them still but the Man Utd left back is now a touch better. For me he was the most consistent defender in the entire league in 2009 and, like Cole and Clichy, is a fabulous modern day wing back who is ruthless in both boxes. No longer shoots as often as he used too (that’s a positive by the way) and has really improved his ability as a defender. Going forward, he is as good as any left winger in the country with the ball at his feet. Supremely gifted footballer.

10. Nemanja Vidic (Man Utd) – As the final defender on the list, Vidic takes my title as the league’s best defender for the second successive year. Like all great defenders, he is an absolute bully to opposing forwards. Unlike many others, I certainly am not in the business of killing this guy based on two average displays against Liverpool and Fernando Torres. The Serbian is the most physical defender in the league and has the skills to back that up. Finally, two other aspects to his game that make him complete: Consistently makes whoever is playing alongside him look more composed than usual and has the ability to score goals.

9. Luka Modric (Spurs) – The 2009 winner of the best player outside of the top 4 award. The emergence of Modric as a true star in this league was fascinating to watch throughout 2009. This time last year he was just starting to look comfortable. A year on, he regularly takes over games and is the perfect player to bridge the gap between the effective midfielders and the forwards at Spurs. Can play effectively in the number 10 role or, as Harry Redknapp prefers, in the left midfield role drifting inside to supply the forwards with accurate pass after accurate pass. A real artist and a breath of fresh air in the modern day game which features far too few players like Modric.

8. Andrei Arshavin (Arsenal) – Many words are written and spoken about how long it takes for ‘foreign’ players to adapt to the Premier League. Not enough are written and spoken about how little time it takes the great ones. Bergkamp, Klinsmann, Zola. Arshavin is the same. A wonderful footballer who can turn the ball on a penny. Can strike the ball with incredible pace and with both feet, the Russian is absolutely perfect for the Arsene Wenger system.

7. Wayne Rooney (Man Utd) – 2009 was the year Wayne Rooney grew up, and I am not talking about his marriage. The Englishman now scores goals at a much more frequent rate for his club and when the league’s best player walked out of Old Trafford for the final time he was the one who stood up and carried the rest of the team on his back. Rooney revels in the spotlight and is much more than a goalscorer. For a player who is the 11th most attacking player on the team he covers an incredible amount of grass during the 90 minutes and is often seen defending in his own half. Very underrated passer of the ball and now finally looks to be avoiding those dreaded injuries that cost him a lot of playing time early in his career. The 13th and final Man Utd player on this list.

6. Didier Drogba (Chelsea) – Many people think the Ivorian is the best striker in world football. I don’t. Drogba, though, is a wonderful player who is now back scoring at a rate that we weren’t seeing this time last year. Incredibly strong, he no doubt causes opponents to lose sleep the night before a match. Drogba can score in many different ways – both feet, head and from set pieces, which include his low-flying free-kicks that have caused goalkeeper’s fits this season. The Chelsea man, however, cannot be discussed without talking about his poor attitude and constant rolling around on the floor. Make no mistake, however, that is not why he isn’t higher.

5. Frank Lampard (Chelsea) – Even after a decade of fantastic performances at the highest level in England, Lampard remains a curious case. A wonderful individual player but a player that many teams have found it difficult to fit around. Even now, under Carlo Ancelotti’s new diamond system, the England international hasn’t found a home and is often used as the right-sided midfielder. Personally, I think he’s better at the top of the diamond and when he did play there recently, against Birmingham, and was brilliant. The best midfielder in all of England at running off the ball. Now is the time for Lampard to carry Chelsea with many other stars missing.

4. Steven Gerrard (Liverpool) – We are now talking about serious contenders to the top spot. There is no doubt that Gerrard has been playing injured this season and, like many great players, his form has dipped a little when great players are not around him. However, he still remains one of the most clutch players in the entire sport, a true leader with a lethal shot and an excellent passer. One of the few players in this league that gets man-marked.

3. Michael Essien (Chelsea) – The 14th and final Chelsea player. Essien is an absolute complete central midfielder who can do everything at an exceptionally high level. Seen, and employed, by many as a defensive holding midfielder, the Ghana international is much more than a ‘Claude Makelele’. Often used as a ‘stopper’, Essien turns defence into attack like no other player in this league. A sublime tackler and passer of the ball who is so valuable to his team because he is simply irreplaceable. Very few players in the world can do what he can do.

2. Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal) – The 11th and final Arsenal player. Still only 22, Fabregas is a player who in 10 years time could easily be the one they talk about as being the best player of the decade, not just in whichever league he is in but in the world. The Spaniard has all the tools to become one of the faces of this game for years to come. Like many of his countrymen he was born with a ball stuck to his foot and no one has been able to get it off yet. Absolute marvelous runner with the ball he often drags more than one defender towards him, allowing team-mates the freedom around him. Unlike other stars, though, Fabregas has no problem sharing the ball around and this only adds to his qualities.

1. Fernando Torres (Liverpool) – The 8th and final Liverpool player is the league’s best player. Fernando Torres is the best striker in world football today. No striker is as complete as the Spaniard. The real great strikers always score in one-on-one situations (check), can peel off the back of defenders in a split second while remaining onside (check), can make top class defenders look ordinary (check), and regularly score big goals in big games (check). Torres does it all. On top of that there is no better striker at turning on the ball in such a short area of space and can send a rocket of a shot with very little backlift. Anfield has been home to some wonderful strikers down the years but no one scored 50 goals for the club as fast as Torres (72 games).

So that’s it, it’s been a great project and I hope you enjoyed it. I expect many opinions on this so please leave them below, email me at kristian.jack@thescore.com and send them to me on twitter, @kristianjack

I wish each and everyone of you a safe 2010 full of great memories and thanks for your continued support of the Footy Show here at The Score.

Kristian Jack