Top 25 English Premier League players ever

16. GianFranco Zola: I loved this little Italian midfield schemer for he was such an intelligent player, be it with a killer pass or a freakish goal. He just had that unique essence that can only be described as magic. He had that thing that is so crucial in football – the ability to change a game through a pure bit of skill that no one could counter. A delightfully kind and endearing gentleman too.

17. Xabi Alonso: In truth, this guy was the key to the Liverpool side that challenged for the top honours in the EPL in his role in holding midfield. He was a truly beautiful player with his vision and reading of the game. His passing was of the highest calibre. Why Liverpool let him go is a mystery that’s comparable to something Agatha Christie would pen.

18. Didier Drogba: I’d have rated him higher, for he’s a truly great player, but I just don’t like his antics; his early career was symbolised by the abhorrent tactic of diving to get penalties. That aside though, in the current game there isn’t a more powerhouse predatory striker than this great player from Ivory Coast.

19. Teddy Sheringham: This guy was just a winner; wherever he went, he had the Midas touch. He was a very fine striker who was famed for his headers. He was a key factor in the iconic Champions League title that United won over Bayern Munich in 1998-99, scoring in injury time and setting up the winner with a headed flick.

20. Cesc Fabregas: In the current game one of the best midfielder in the world of football. He has it all, like all the great players, including the ability to pass and dribble past defenders and score goals at a strikers rate. One of the best players in the game today.