Usually by January, the Premier League is on the home straight. This was usually the time that Sir Alex Ferguson would metaphorically lean forward with the controller, going on a stunning second-half-of-the-season run that would leave title rivals in the dust.
Well, as you may have heard, this season is a little different. We’ve only just passed the halfway checkpoint for 2022/23 in the Premier League, as teams tick off their 19th game of the campaign.
Who’s impressed us so far though? Who’s been a standout star of their side and who’s defined the season as a whole?
Eight honorable mentions…
Michael Olise
Last season, Michael Olise was on the fringes of the first XI as Patrick Vieira instilled his style into his Crystal Palace side: this season, he’s raised the pulses like few others and stepped up as one of the most exciting wingers in the league.
Alexis McAllister
Brighton’s World Cup-winning Alexis McAllister has been a bustle of energy and excitement to help propel the Seagulls up the table. He’s been superb this season and in a Europe-chasing side, he’s been a touch of class.
Andreas Pereira
Eyebrows were raised when Andreas Pereira – who decidedly average at Manchester United – joined promoted Fulham. He’s been incredible at No. 10 though, driving forward, connecting the dots and helping the Whites towards Europe.
Bruno Guimaraes
He should be playing higher up the pitch, according to some fans – and yet he’s still been one of the most impressive defensive midfielders in the league all term. Bruno is the heartbeat of Eddie Howe’s side and a big reason they’re chasing Champions League football.
John Stones
Manchester City defenders seem to take their turn in the spotlight. Aymeric Laporte had his season, then Ruben Dias did – and now John Stones has been Pep Guardiola’s general at the back. Brilliant all term, he’s shown the grit and guile that was once missing from his game to lead City this season.
Luke Shaw
Some wondered if his days were numbered when Tyrell Malacia was joined. Luke Shaw has returned to his best, however, becoming a vital member of Erik ten Hag’s side – and even slotting in at centre-back in a pinch.
Declan Rice
West Ham United have been disappointing this season, finding themselves at the wrong end of the table. New captain Declan Rice has been solid and dependable in the center though, proving himself one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe.
William Saliba
Arguably the best young defender in Europe this season, William Saliba has been calm, assured and strong at the back for Arsenal. There have been moments when he’s played the offside trap, then had the recovery pace to tackle anyway: he’s a monstrous prospect, still.
By Mark White, Ryan Dabbs