English Premier League: The best XI after 17 match-days
The Premier League has been a high-octane affair this term, with teams developing unique styles of their own and trying to put even the biggest outfits under pressure. Three teams have stood out this season- Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool, while Tottenham and Arsenal have also been pretty impressive. Here are the eleven players who have outperformed others in their respective positions.
The formation and style this team will have
The team can play a 4-2-3-1 formation while using fullbacks as the defensive midfielders hold the fort. Pace will be an intricate factor while smooth passing to build up attacks can be the approach to take.
Who has been the best goalkeeper this term?
The goalkeeper who has outshone all others is surely Liverpool's Alisson. He has had an instant impact since joining Liverpudlian ranks this season and has his hands behind many of the Reds' victories this term. Alisson's performance has allowed Liverpool to concede the least number of goals (7) among all Premier League teams this term. He makes it to the best XI.
Who are the defenders who make the cut?
Liverpool's Robertson has proved himself to be the best fullback this term and will be an inevitable part of the line-up. Another Liverpudlian making the cut would be Virgil van Dijk, who has been instrumental in holding Liverpool's defense as well as ball distribution. Antonio Rudiger can accompany van Dijk as the center-back, and Kyle Walker will be the other fullback of the team.
The holding midfielders: Important parts of the puzzle
Holding midfielders have become a very important part in modern football because such deep-lying playmaking roles have become essential in trying to be safe from counterattacks. Georginio Wijnaldum makes the list as he has been important to Liverpool building up their game this term. So will be Chelsea's Jorginho, who has become the pivot around which Chelsea have begun to structure their midfield.
The three best attacking midfielders of the season so far
Eden Hazard is the go-to player when it comes to the left wing in the Premier League, and with his exploits rejuvenating Chelsea this term, he will be indispensable. Roberto Firmino can play as the central attacking midfielder with Mohamed Salah accompanying him on the right. These two have made immense contributions in keeping Liverpool at the table-top.
Aubameyang can play a special role in the team
Arsenal's Aubameyang has been phenomenal, already netting in ten goals and leading the goalscoring charts along with Mohamed Salah. He can be the center-forward of the team, and also be deployed as a false nine, who tracks down and builds up attacks with the help of quick passing. With these players, we have arrived at the best team EPL can offer this season.
