Jack Wilshere (Arsenal)

The past year has been one to remember for the 19-year-old, who became a key player for the Gunners, established himself in the senior England side and was crowned the PFA Young Player of the Year. Much is expected from the midfielder in the coming season but you can be sure he will not disappoint.

 

Thomas Vermaelen (Arsenal)

Arsene Wenger's side capitulated towards the end of last season, leading fans and pundits alike to question the Frenchman and his troops. Defence seemed to be a real point of contention, although Vermaelen's return should go some way to shoring up Arsenal's ailing back line. Having recovered from a serious Achilles injury, the Belgium international could well help the Gunners towards a realistic title push.

 

Luka Modric (Tottenham)

While the Croatia playmaker has openly admitted his desire to part company with Spurs, it looks like he will be turning out for the north London outfit for some time yet. And it is a good thing too for Harry Redknapp's side, who have a realistic chance of beating any team with Modric's skill and guile in the middle of the park.

 

Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United)

The Serbian colossus was a key component as United picked up a record 19th league title last season - and you can expect much of the same as Sir Alex Ferguson's side compete for a 20th crown. The 29-year-old is an imperious force in defence and a goal threat from set-pieces, making him one of the best centre-backs in the world.

 

Fernando Torres (Chelsea)

Last season did not go to plan for the most expensive signing in British football history. Torres' £50million January move from Liverpool did not bear short-term rewards for club or player but under new Blues boss Andre Villas-Boas expect the Spain international to flourish once more.

 

Luis Suarez (Liverpool)

Many on Merseyside feared Torres' departure could adversely affect Liverpool's fortunes, although Suarez rapidly dispelled such concerns. The former Ajax striker has proven a relative bargain at £22.8million after some mesmerising displays in his first six months with Kenny Dalglish's men. Expect bigger and better things this campaign.

 

Yaya Toure (Manchester City)

Carlos Tevez's were vital to City last season but with his future in the north-west uncertain to say the least, the Ivory Coast midfielder could become the figurehead for the Blues with his energetic, box-to-box midfield play.

 

Hatem Ben Arfa (Newcastle)

Many on Tyneside would have feared they had seen the last of the on-loan French winger when he suffered a broken tibia and fibula last October. Ben Arfa, though, has since signed a permanent deal with Newcastle and is keen to make up for lost time. If he can regain the form he showed before his injury, Alan Pardew looks to have a star on his hands.

 

Scott Sinclair (Swansea)

After spells with nine clubs in little over five years, the 22-year-old former Chelsea man is finally fulfilling his potential in south Wales. Sinclair still has a lot to prove but the stage is set for the winger to shine this season. Blessed with pace, skill and the drive to succeed, he has the attributes to become one of the stars of the season.

 

Ashley Young (Manchester United)

After the completion of his protracted move to the north west, Young can go about proving himself as one of the Premier League's elite. The 25-year-old has impressed for both Aston Villa and England in recent times, but whether he can succeed at Old Trafford is another question entirely. Saying that, with the skill set at his disposal not many would bet against him being a success.