Premier League 2018/19 - Best under-23 XI of the season

Central Midfielder: Declan Rice (West Ham)

Rice was very much in demand on the international front as Ireland and England both called him up

Rice’s performances as a holding midfielder this season can put some of his senior counterparts to shame. Calm and composed in possession, Rice is not only very adept at reading the game but is also uncompromising in his efforts to win back possession. His sterling shifts earned him call-ups from both Ireland and England, before he swore his allegiance to the latter.

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Attacking Midfielder: James Maddison (Leicester City)

Maddison is one of the best signings of the season

England have quite a few young guns who’re touted to be the next big thing in English football. But Leicester City's, James Maddison has emerged to be the cream of the crop. The 22-year-old has excelled since his transfer from Norwich last summer, and part of that is down to a more central role he’s deployed in. It has helped Maddison unlock his creativity and also show his prodigious dribbling ability. He created a mammoth 100 chances in the league - more than anyone this season.

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Left winger: Leroy Sane (Manchester City)

Sane proved last year's form was not a flash in the pan

Premier League’s Best Young Player last season, Leroy Sane narrowly lost out to his teammate Raheem Sterling this time around, but that doesn’t mean his influence ebbed this season or so. Sane was, in fact, bright as ever, showing great speed, technique and balance to heckle defenses. His forward movements normally end up with smart decisions, which explains his prolific tally of 10 goals and 11 assists despite being heavily rotated by Pep Guardiola.

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Right-winger: David Brooks (Bournemouth)

Brooks can become a Welsh great someday

Ryan Fraser and Callum Wilson stole all the limelight in Eddie Howe’s entertaining side with a barnstorming run, but any keen observer of the Cherries will say David Brooks too had a stellar season. The 21-year old caught attention with his dribbling skills and a penchant for attempting outrageous shots. He was at his scintillating best in the 4-0 demolition of Chelsea, where he scored and assisted once each.