The Premier League’s 38-week slog is almost done and dusted and in the end Man City cruised to the title despite Arsenal’s blistering form before the World Cup.
But at least a few Gooners can console themselves with the knowledge that they earned an altogether more prestigious accolade – a spot in Peter Crouch’s Premier League team of the season – where Crouchy has to make some very tough calls – sorry Jack...
Goalkeeper – Nick Pope
I played with Nick at Burnley and really like him. Newcastle have been unbelievable this season, especially defensively, and he’s been one of the best in the league for a long time so I think he deserves a shout.
Full-backs – Kieran Trippier & Oleksandr Zinchenko
You could make a case for Kyle Walker at right-back just for the job he did on Vinicius in the Champions League semi-final, but Kieran Trippier is the one for me. Reece James would’ve had a claim probably if he’d stayed fit.
At left-back, I’ve to go for Oleksandr Zinchenko. I know towards the end of the season he had a difficult time but him and Gabriel Jesus are the players who have put Arsenal back on the map and helped change the mentality there.
Centre Backs – John Stones & Sven Botman
John Stones for sure as he’s become such a good player, but then you could look at a few others alongside him. Ruben Dias from City as well has been very good, or William Saliba at Arsenal, but I’ll got for another Newcastle defender because they’ve impressed me so much this season in Sven Botman. Alongside Fabian Schar he’s been excellent.
Midfielders – Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne & Martin Odegaard
In midfield I’m nearly tempted to go with all Man City players. Rodri and Kevin De Bruyne are impossible to leave out, and I really think Jack Grealish has done so well and I’d love to find a spot for him – I suppose it depends on how you want to set your team up.
But I think I probably have to go with Martin Odegaard as the third of three in there.
Forwards – Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka
Haaland’s a shoo-in with the way he’s played and Harry Kane is not far behind as his record this season in a struggling Spurs side is great.
Again, I’d love to have Grealish in there as well but I don’t want to get grief for leaving out Bukayo Saka, who had a great season, so I’ll stick him in the final place instead.
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