5 surprise performers in the Premier League this season

#2: James Tarkowski (Burnley)

Tarkowski has emerged as one of the league's top defenders this campaign

When Burnley sold Michael Keane to Everton last summer, there were supporters and critics alike who felt the Clarets needed to sign a replacement for the centre-back. However, Sean Dyche did not agree and how right he was. The emergence of James Tarkowski this season has been very refreshing, not least after watching how he conducted himself to get the move from Brentford in January two seasons ago.

Having formed a very effective partnership alongside the extremely under-rated captain, Ben Mee, he's showing his talent under Dyche's tutelage and his strength in the heart of Burnley's backline is evident to see.

Alongside the aforementioned Mawson, he's a defensive talent who is even interesting England boss Gareth Southgate as a potential centre-back that may be called up for the senior side in future. His aerial ability and his strength in one-on-one battles with attackers is excellent, as he continues to improve.

A club run extremely well from top to bottom, they have surprised everyone once again with their performances this term. Tarkowski has been the one player who has turned heads, proving himself as a real asset to Burnley's success.

Unsurprisingly, Dyche will be determined to keep hold of the defender - especially as when absent, they clearly feel it in the heart of their backline.