7. Xabi Alonso
Peter Byrne/PA Archive/Press Association Images
Club: Liverpool Whats that old saying? You dont know what youve got until its gone? In the summer of 2008, Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez set about signing Gareth Barry from Aston Villa the transfer didnt go through, but it left Xabi Alonso feeling very much like he was looking to be replaced, and next summer the unsettled star left Merseyside for Spanish giants Real Madrid. It signalled the end of what many would consider one of the best midfields in Premier League history Alonso, Javier Mascherano and Steven Gerrard which had come so close to contributing towards a Liverpool Premier League title win in 2008/09. Mascherano, who himself could have quite justifiably made this list of top 10 midfielders, provided the tough tackling alongside one the greatest passers the league his ever seen in Alonso. His ability to pick a diagonal pass and execute it to perfection was better than almost any player in Premier League history; in fact many might argue that he was the best at it. His aptitude at controlling games too was magnificent, and allowed Gerrard to influence the game further forward, safe in the knowledge that he had left the deep-lying playmaker role in capable hands (or feet). It wasnt just passing that Alonso had mastered though, the World Cup winner also had a knack for scoring spectacular goals from his own half. What Liverpool fans would give to have Alonso back at the club next season.