Football: My All Time English Premier League XI

The best league in the world has witnessed many great players over the years. Here is my attempt to create a best XI out of the greats.

Disclaimer: Be kind in your criticism and suggestions.

Goalkeeper-

Peter Schmeichel:

Not much of a choice, is there? Bought for a meager sum of 530,000 GBP in 1991, Schmeichel went on to become one of the greatest keepers the sport has ever seen. His inspirational performances guided Manchester United to several titles in the 90′s. He was also a member of the historical 1999 Treble winning team.

Defense-

Gary Neville: (Right-Back)One of the most consistent and reliable defenders in the game. Though got under people’s skins quite often he was a fighter in every sense of the word.

Tony Adams: (Center-Back)Mr. Arsenal Tony Adams was a brick at the back. He is the amongst one of the most disciplined defender to have played in the premier league. Known for his great clearances, Adams is one of the greatest leaders ever of a football club. He will be a part of every All Time Premier League team. He is the kind of character that the current Arsenal team needs.

Jamie Carragher: (Center-Back)Now this might be a controversial pick, some will say Terry, some will say Rio or Desailly but due to my allegiance towards Liverpool, I got to pick this guy. A powerful tackler and a man truly committed to his club. His positional sense is exceptional and he can switch (or could switch) to right back too if needed. (Also has the rare distinction of scoring more goals against his club than for, haha)

Ashley Cole: (Left-Back)The best left back of the league without a doubt. Has great pace and can defend and attack with equal prowess. He is very difficult to beat and remains consistent in his performances for both club and country. (If only he could improve his off-field antics)

Midfield-

Steven Gerrard: (Central Attacking Midfielder)Captain Fantastic, He’s the captain of this team. He is the most complete player to have ever played in the Premier League. Speed, skill, temperament, finishing and vision. He has got everything that a midfielder needs. His heroics for Liverpool will long live in the memories of the footballing community, he is the true master of the KOP and the heart of Liverpool midfield.

Paul Scholes: (Left Midfield)Again a legend of the game, went quietly about his game and always got the job done. Had the power to unleash shots that could rattle any goalkeeper, one of the biggest factors for the success of United.

Ryan Giggs: (Right Midfield)Arguably United’s best all time player in the Premiership era. Started as a left side winger and was quick and skillful, he has now established himself as an important part of the United Central Midfield. He has won every trophy possible with United.

Patrick Viera: (Central Defensive Midfield)The gem of Arsenal’s midfield in their glorious years. Highly physical, mentally tough and a born leader. Had some disciplinary problems during his time in the Premier League but compensated that with the time he spent on the field.

Attack:

Thierry Henry: (Striker)The most feared forward of Europe in early 2000s. Mr. Thierry Henry is one of the most complete strikers the game has ever seen. He has achieved everything for both club and country, had lightning pace, creativity, brilliant ball control and the winning mentality which is so rare. Strikers like him are born once in a generation.

Alan Shearer: (Striker)The most cherished striker of the Premiership and the record holder for the most number of goals. He was the crunch player for Blackburn in that wonderful 1994-95 season in which they stole the title from United on the last day. Was a prolific goalscorer throughout his career and a legend of the English game.

Substitutes-

Ruud Van Nistelrooy, John Terry, Roy Keane, David Seaman, David Beckham, Eric Cantona, Marcel Dessaily

THE PREMIER LEAGUE XI