Midfielders
Mesut Ozil (Arsenal)
Many criticise the German for his ‘casual’ style of play, but it’s hard to argue whether he offers enough to Arsenal when you see his stats. A Premier League high 11 assists and 56 chances created is the most of any player in Europe’s major leagues. Although he has just one goal himself, he’s been the man to tee up his team-mates and is a key reason as to why Arsene Wenger’s side have a realistic chance of winning the title.
Ross Barkley (Everton)
After disappointing in 2014/15, this season was an important one for Ross Barkley’s development. And the talented 21-year-old has produced on a consistent basis to date to help the Toffees contend for a top-six finish. With five goals – one behind his career’s best for a campaign – and four assists to his name, it’s been a start which has put the playmaker in strong contention to start for England at Euro 2016. His link-up play with Romelu Lukaku has been devastating at times and has contributed to 22 of the Blues’ 24 goals this term.
Dimitri Payet (West Ham)
The French midfielder has proved to be one of the signings of the summer. For £10 million from Marseille, West Ham look to have found a real bargain in the modern day market. His performance on debut at Arsenal was eye-catching and he has since followed that up with five goals, three assists and 46 key passes. Unfortunately he is expected to be out for three months with an ankle injury and the Hammers will be counting down the days to his return.
Riyad Mahrez (Leicester)
Leicester City have made an incredible start to the season and sit top after 13 matches. The Foxes, who produced a miracle to stay up last term, have carried on where they left off under new boss Claudio Ranieri. In midfield they have a player who’s playing at the top of his game in Riyad Mahrez. The Algerian wide man has bagged seven goals and six assists in his 12 Premier League appearances. Not bad form for a player who cost just £350,000 from Le Harve in January 2014.