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Brian Steven's Premier League Team of the 2008/09 Season

Brian StevensApr 17, 2009

This has been one of the Premier League's greatest seasons so far, and I am going to choose my starting eleven for the 2008/09 campaign.

First, the most important position of all: the goalkeeper. Seeing as I play that spot, it's not a hard choice.

I have selected Manchester United's Edwin Van der Sar, due to his amazing run without conceding a goal and keeping United top of the league. He has made crucial saves and has controlled his penalty box well this season.

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My other two contenders for the goalkeeper of the year were Pepe Reina (Liverpool) and Mark Schwarzer (Fulham).

My right back would have to be Alvaro Arbeloa of Liverpool, as he has played very consistently in his team's title run-in this year. I think he's a very good offensive full-back and does not make many errors.

My center back pairing would be Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United) and Phil Jagielka (Everton).

Ferdinand was an easy choice, as he has been formidable at the back for United's defence.

And since I didn't really want to just choose the players from the big teams, I went with the recently capped England international Jagielka for the other spot; he's been one of Everton's key players in their challenge for a UEFA Cup spot.

The left back slot goes to Patrice Evra (Manchester United). Despite the disaster in his debut in the Manchester derby a few seasons ago, he has been one of United's best players, and this season I think his offensive runs and consistency at the back have earned him the right to complete my back four.

Right midfield is for Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United). As if you could leave him out!

The 2008 FIFA World Player of the Year has not had as great of a season as last, but he still catches the eye with his skill and the goals he scores for the Red Devils.

My centre midfield pairing would have to be Steven Gerrard (Liverpool) and Marouane Fellaini (Everton).

I have chosen the Merdeyside pairing because Gerrard has been world-class with his drive to win the Premier League title, and his goal ratio, assists, and work-rate for the Reds have been outstanding.

Fellaini gets the other nod because of the havoc he has wrought upon opposing defenses, despite having just switched from Belgian side Standard Liege. Despite his bad hair style, he has scored vital goals for Everton, partly due to his aerial threat.

Now, my left midfielder was going to be Aston Villa's Ashley Young, but I think this man deserves it more, as he is one of the Premiership's greatest-ever players. He has scored in all 17 Premier League seasons.

Can you guess who it is?

Welsh wizard Ryan Giggs (Manchester United) of course doesn't go at the same pace he once did, but he's my man here. He's been a credit to football and a great professional. The way he still carries on for United with his overall team play and determination makes him more than worthy to be in my team.

My two forward selections might be a bit controversial.

Kevin Davies (Bolton Wanderers) is on my list, as I think he has been great for Bolton this season. After taking the captaincy, he has scored more goals this season than he ever has in the Premier League.

He's known as the league's dirtiest player, as he always concedes the most fouls, but his presence and goals should confirm this status.

Also getting my recognition is Fernando Torres (Liverpool).

He had a slow start to the season, but this man deserves to be on this squad despite his injuries. The Spaniard has made his way to the top of the goal-scoring charts this season, and with his great pace, technique, and goal ratio, he could help Liverpool to the top.

This is my 11. Hope you think I've made good decisions; please comment if you think someone else should be here.

Squad in Full

Edwin Van der Sar     (Manchester United)
Alvaro Arbeloa           (Liverpool)
Rio Ferdinand            (Manchester United)
Phil Jagielka              (Everton)
Patrice Evra              (Manchester United)
Cristiano Ronaldo       (Manchester United)
Steven Gerrard          (Liverpool)
Marouane Fellani        (Everton)
Ryan Giggs                (Manchester United)
Kevin Davies              (Bolton Wanderers)
Fernando Torres         (Liverpool)

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