GOALKEEPER: Joe Hart (Manchester City)

Golden Glove winner for the second year running, Hart's progression as a goalkeeper of true world-class standing has continued this term with a series of impressive saves, most recently at Newcastle, and overall displays that have underlined his status as City and England's undisputed number one.

RIGHT-BACK: Kyle Walker (Tottenham)

Walker has been one of the stand-out successes for Tottenham this term. The 21-year-old has taken on increased responsibility and shown an eye for a goal judging by that brilliant free-kick against Blackburn last month. Crowned PFA Young Player of the Year and likely to win a call-up to England's Euro 2012 squad.

CENTRE-HALF: Vincent Kompany (Manchester City)

Took a little bit of time to hit top form this term but has totally justified Roberto Mancini's decision to hand him the captaincy. Muscular and athletic, the Belgian rarely loses out in a physical contest, has developed a superb partnership with Joleon Lescott and scored the goal that beat Manchester United.

CENTRE-HALF: Fabricio Coloccini (Newcastle)

If the Argentinian should be identified as one of the weak links that got Newcastle relegated three years ago, it is only fair to acknowledge him as one of the strengths in this stellar season. Coloccini displays all the defensive nous his country is so well known for and is rarely injured.

LEFT-BACK: Ashley Cole (Chelsea)

Despite pressure from Leighton Baines in particular, Cole remains the country's number one left-back and one of its true world-class stars. Has curbed some of the less savoury aspects of his character and concentrated on belting up and down that left touchline. Done more defending than normal this term but hardly ever found wanting.

RIGHT-WING: David Silva (Manchester City)

The Spain international may have found the last couple of months a struggle but no one should forget the impact he made during the first two-thirds of the Spain. A true inspiration, at times he was completely unstoppable. The main destructive force in that 6-1 annihilation of Manchester United at Old Trafford in October.

MIDFIELD: Yaya Toure (Manchester City)

The man for the big occasion without a doubt. His cumbersome style means Toure gives the impression of someone who could easily be overcome in a midfield duel. The fact it happens so infrequently says everything about the former Barcelona man. Kept his nerve in the vital game at Newcastle and a key figure in a team of stars.

MIDFIELD: Paul Scholes (Manchester United)

Only came back from retirement in January but the 37-year-old did enough in half a season to confirm stepping aside was a mistake. There are things he can no longer do, but the range of his passing is a joy to behold. Criminally wasted by England but the Premier League is better for his presence.

LEFT WING: Clint Dempsey (Fulham)

Dempsey has enjoyed another outstanding campaign as opposition defences seem to find it impossible to stop him. His 23-goal tally includes two hat-tricks. He scored four times against Newcastle alone and also found the net against Chelsea and Liverpool. Surely a step up in standard beckons for the American this summer.

STRIKER: Robin van Persie (Arsenal)

Players' Player of the Year, FWA Player of the Year, Golden Boot winner, Arsenal talisman. Van Persie has enjoyed a brilliant season, having finally shrugged off the injuries that have been such a constant throughout his career. More than just his goals though, Van Persie has shown impressive leadership qualities and helped Arsenal fight their way through some difficult times.

STRIKER: Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

That Rooney broke through the 30-goal barrier, yet few think he has done well just emphasises what a good player he has become. His tantrums are becoming less frequent too as he matures into a world-class star. United need to build their response to this season's setbacks around him.