BEST OF 2011

Tuesday, 27/12/2011

1. BEST PLAYER
Scott Parker. He claimed the Football Writers' Player of the Year award in a struggling West Ham side and then settled into the Spurs midfield with ease after signing for the North London club in the summer. The ultra-determined, tenacious yet skilful midfielder can pass his way out of tight situations. He’s also shown his true class in the white of England.

2. BEST BUY
Luis Suarez. A great bit of business for Liverpool and one of the most dangerous attacking talents in the Premier League. Fernando who?

3. WORST BUY
I’ll stick with Liverpool and go for Andy Carroll. Kenny Dalglish rushed in and spent a crazy amount of money on a player that was enjoying a good run of form, but was far from the finished article. He simply doesn’t look good enough for The Reds.

4. BOSS WE LOVE
Sir Alex Ferguson just keeps on going, rebuilding a youthful Manchester United side, showing as much passion and hunger as ever and keeping referees and the press on their toes.

5. SIT DOWN AND SHUT UP MOMENT
All of the United fans that gloated about the 8-2 victory over Arsenal too much were soon put in their place when their team imploded at home against Manchester City. The 6-1 mauling was a reality check after such an impressive start to the season.

6. UNSUNG HERO
Darren Fletcher. Always turns in a shift for Manchester United and has been the heartbeat of the Red Devils midfield despite suffering from illness.

7. FUNNIEST INCIDENT
Mario Balotelli struggling to put his bib on. The Italian can be an absolute genius or an absolute clown, depending on what day it is!

8. BEST GAME WATCHED
The Champions League Final between Manchester United and Barcelona at Wembley. As a United fan it was a humbling yet inspiring experience to watch a team play that kind of football in such a big game. A fantastic atmosphere inside the ground as well. Watching Lionel Messi in full-flow was also a privilege.

9. A PLAYER TO WATCH IN 2012
Phil Jones. The Manchester United man is only going to go from strength to strength, whether in defence or midfield. I expect him to star at Euro 2012.

10. HAVE A MOAN
Ticket prices have made going to football more of a luxury than a ritual. Despite the cost of living increasing and people having to tighten their belts, ticket prices have continued to rise. This needs to be addressed or millions will be watching the action on Sky whilst a few thousand go through the turnstiles.

*YOU CAN READ MORE OF OUR WRITERS' BESTS IN THE ON LINE MAG...AND THE FULL FEATURE IN THE MAGAZINE APP FROM IT TUNES AND www.pocketmags.com

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