Since it began in 1992 the Premier League has generated quality and entertaining football unrivalled by many domestic leagues. This in no small part, is down to the players who have made the Premiership what it is today. The best current players in the league deserve recognition, as well as all time great players. For each position, here are some considerations:
Goal Keeper
At the moment, Peter Cech of Chelsea is regarded as the best goalie in the league. Not without competition at Chelsea, he holds a regular spot in their first team and keeps a large number of clean sheets. Van Dar Sar of Manchester Utd, although ageing, has still been a first team regular for them. At his best he was undoubtedly one of the best keepers in the world. On balance, however, Peter Cech is the league's best.
Defender
Terry is a worthy nomination for best defender. Strong and reliable he provides sound defensive cover as well as leadership. Ferdinand, another great defender, is pivotal and holds a regular spot in Europe's best team. Arsenal's Toure has proved consistently reliable for them, and is also one of the best defenders in the league. So, who is best? I choose Terry for his sound leadership in addition to defensive qualities.
Midfielder
An abundance of choice has to be narrowed down. Ronaldo stands out as being the obvious candidate. But that would be forgetting the likes of Fabregas, who is excellent for Arsenal and still getting better. And Liverpool's Gerrard, who packs a killer attacking instinct in midfield like Ronaldo. Still, Ronaldo is not just regarded as the Premiership's best, but world no 1 with his pace, technique and set- pieces. Can't beat him unfortunately.
Attack
Much more open. Chelsea's Drogba was one of the league's top goal poachers last season along with Arsenal's Adebayor. Wayne Rooney, however, can be quite formidable and combines goals with assists. The Liverpool striker, Torres, is very gifted and proved an excellent signing for them. Currently tearing teams apart in the Euro Championships, he is perhaps the best forward in the Premier League at the moment. But, it is a close call.
All things considered then, Cech, Terry, Ronaldo and Torres are the best players in the Premiership for their respective positions. Aside from the best current, the Premiership's best all-time players most definitely should be mentioned. Picking one (or two) for each position:
GK: Peter Schmeichel
D: John Terry
M: Roy Keane or Ronaldo
F: Shearer, ahead of Henry.
For me, they are probably the best players in the Premiership's history. Along with the best current crop, players of this level are what have made the Premier League so special.
