10 Unsung Warriors This Premier League Season
Because every toolbox needs a hammer…
Everyone knows that the goalscorers and most skilful players will always be the names printed on the back of shirts. But behind every Ronaldo, Hazard or Messi, there’s a Khedira, Matic or Mascherano.
Real football isn’t like the virtual world of FIFA, teams aren’t made out of pacey, skilful, flair players alone. Quite often it’s the grit and determination of a select group of warriors that wins points, just as much as those who pull off the tricks. These warriors don’t look for praise, but their hard work, passion and selfless dedication deserves it.
One look at Burnley’s efforts in recent years paints a picture of how far commitment can carry you. The Clarets have spent a mere ten million in the past two years, yet have won promotion to the Premier League and come close to staying up.
The following list looks to count down the top ten most unsung warriors from the Premier League this season. Most of these players receive very little praise from the media or fans in varying parts of the country, yet they’re absolutely crucial to their side’s success.
Whether it’s thundering into challenges, pressing from the front, or simply showing passion in the way they play, here are the unsung warriors, whose contributions are too frequently overlooked.
10. Craig Gardner (West Brom)
Craig Gardner endured a poor season at Sunderland last year, with the odd decent goal not enough to make up for his overall sub-par performances.
However, now he’s back in the midlands, he looks to have found his feet once more.
Gardner has never been the most talented footballer around, but he’s made himself nothing more than an unadulterated pest in the heart of the West Brom midfield, regularly putting in tackles and pressing the opposition.
His contribution of three goals and three assists has also proved handy in West Brom’s successful quest to stay in the Premier League.