England’s keeper and a 19-year-old French forward are part of our selection of players who are essential to their clubs
Unless his arms suddenly enjoy a miraculous growth spurt the T rex jibes will never fully be banished, but Jordan Pickford has been one of the Premier League’s most reliable goalkeepers for some time. His long passing and shot-stopping have always been of decent standard, but, over time, he’s developed his short game, able to keep the ball moving and begin attacks by picking out teammates at closer range. His handling is tidier, meaning mistakes are fewer, and he is no longer as affected by his emotions as he was in his youth.
Perhaps a surprising entry, but the Chelsea captain is even better than he is given credit for. For years people questioned whether Kyle Walker or Trent Alexander-Arnold should be England’s right-back when, all along, the correct answer was neither because James combines the strengths of both with the weaknesses of neither. He has power, tenacity and recovery pace, all elevated by creativity and attacking impetus. A total footballer, he is not just one of the best in his position in the Premier League, but one of the best in the world.
De Ligt is reaping the rewards of a fallow summer and full pre-season, the only member of United’s squad to play every minute of every Premier League match. His box-defending is excellent, he is dominant in the air – at both ends – and has adapted well to a role that demands he contest challenges in midfield, winning duels and second balls with increasing regularity. As his confidence has grown, he has assumed the role of defensive organiser, showing once more the leadership skills that earned him the captaincy of Ajax at 18.
