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Midfielders are probably the most important players on the pitch. They are crucial in setting up the style of play and controlling the flow of the game.
These players are the link between attack and defence often playing defence-splitting passes and breaking up opposition play as and when required. This season in the Premier League, there have been some midfielders who have been in prime form for their clubs.
All the best teams in this league have that magical midfield player capable of winning them the game almost single-handedly. Without much ado, let us take a look at the 5 best midfielders in the Premier League at the moment:
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#5 Paul Pogba (Manchester United)
Manchester United star Paul Pogba might not have performed at his best in the last few matches, but there is no denying the fact that he started the season extremely well. In the initial months, the former Juventus star was controlling the game with his incisive passing, dribbling and imposing physical presence.
With United now heading to the business end of the season, Mourinho will be hoping that the talented Frenchman rediscovers his best form once again. An on-song Pogba can destroy any opposition and the way he is perceived this season might well hinge on his performances in the coming few weeks.
Having said that, one must not forget that in 17 starts for the Red Devils in the Premier League this season, Pogba has managed 9 assists and 3 goals and has also won the man of the match award 3 times. If one keeps the transfer fee aside, Pogba's performances have actually been extremely good this season.
#4 N'Golo Kante (Chelsea)
Chelsea might not be having the best of seasons so far, but one player who has been consistent throughout and always put in good performances is the 2016/17 PFA Player of the year, N'golo Kante.
Kante’s ability to regain possession in the centre of the park is unparalleled, while his willingness to storm forward with the ball at his feet has created many openings for Chelsea this year. Kante’s positional sense and awareness of the game is second to none and he is renowned for making vital interceptions and winning the ball back for his team.
The Frenchman will have to be at his best if Chelsea are to salvage their season. With important matches coming in the next few weeks, Conte will be counting on Kante to put in the energetic and effective performances he is known for.
#3 Christian Eriksen (Tottenham)
Tottenham's biggest star is undoubtedly Harry Kane, but the next best player in that team this season has arguably been the elegant Danish playmaker, Christian Eriksen. Calm and composed on the ball, Eriksen has often initiated attacks with his wonderful passing and brilliant through-balls.
While his passing, technical abilities and vision are rightly lauded, Eriksen’s biggest strength is his set-piece taking abilities. The 26-year-old has time and again rescued Spurs’ from sticky situations with his brilliant free-kick taking abilities and incisive corners.
Having scored 7 goals and grabbed 7 assists so far in this campaign, Eriksen is definitely among the most talented playmakers in world football at the moment.
#2 David Silva (Manchester City)
Pep Guardiola's Manchester City have been destroying teams in both the Premier League and Champions League and it has largely been thanks to the influence of David Silva. One of the most elegant players to ever grace the game, Silva this season has rediscovered the form which made him one of the best midfielders in the world in 2013/14.
The 31-year-old along with Kevin De Bruyne is the two players Pep Guardiola trusts most in his team. Always in space and picking out the right passes, the silky Spaniard has made the game look ridiculously simple.
Silva's numbers this season are also extremely impressive. Having made 21 appearances in the Premier League so far, the 32-year-old has managed to score 5 goals and bag 8 assists making him a vital cog in Manchester City's machine.
#1 Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)
One of the most complete midfielders in world football, Kevin De Bruyne is undoubtedly the jewel in the Manchester City crown. Known for his immaculate technique, a wide range of passing skills and ability to score spectacular long-range goals, De Bruyne has been key to City’ s consistent performances in both the Premier League and Champions League.
De Bruyne’s importance to Pep Guardiola and the Manchester City team can be seen by these quotes from Guardiola himself. Speaking in an earlier interview, the legendary Spanish manager said:
"I think he is a special, outstanding player. He makes everything. Without the ball, he is the first fighter, and with the ball he is clear – he sees absolutely everything."
Having started the season in blistering fashion, the Belgian superstar will be keen to continue his stunning form for the remainder of this season. The way he is playing at the moment, the 26-year-old sweep all the individual Premier League awards at the end of this season.
