7 Big-Name Players Who Won't Make Their EPL Starting XI

Fierce competition has a tendency to halt careers in the Premier League.

As we enter the 2013-14 competition, a number of big names will struggle to asset themselves at the top. The likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham have crammed certain positions with talent, ensuring some world-class individuals are likely to miss out.

Who will struggle to escape the bench at kick off? Read on to find out.

Andre Schurrle, Chelsea

As a versatile winger/forward, Chelsea is perhaps the most difficult club in the world to establish yourself at right now.

The likes of Eden Hazard, Juan Mata and Victor Moses competed for first team places last year. Throw in players such as Frank Lampard, Ramires, Oscar, Kevin De Bruyne and Marco van Ginkel, Andre Schurrle must be wondering what he can do to get into Jose Mourinho's starting XI.

He is more than talented enough to help Chelsea gain success. The problem is, with Hazard and Mata already fan favourites, Schurrle will be forced to start on the bench during many important matches. Although only 22 years old, he underlines the assertion that too much talent can hinder huge potential.

Dare I say it, Schurrle could be Marko Marin Round 2.

Nani, Manchester United

Wilfried Zaha has absolutely romped through defences during Manchester United's preseason campaign. Although Nani netted two in MUFC XI's 2-0 win against Crewe, the Portuguese winger is surplus to requirements at Old Trafford.

David Moyes has plenty of options to use from the wings. Antonio Valencia had a poor 13-14 season but will be striving to improve, while Ashley Young is the club's only natural left winger and is likely to be given a chance when fit.

Shinji Kagawa could also halt Nani's progress, especially if Moyes lands a midfield target such as Cesc Fabregas. It seems the Scotsman will be happy to play with non-traditional wingers interlinking up the pitch, adding to the sense Nani is no longer needed.

Stevan Jovetic, Manchester City

It's highly unlikely Manuel Pellegrini will start with two small strikers up front. Edin Dzeko or Alvaro Negredo are almost certainly going to partner Sergio Aguero from the off.

The Argentinian's name will always be one of the first on the team sheet, ensuring Steven Jovetic will be forced to make the most of limited opportunities, just like Dzeko and Mario Balotelli in seasons past.

While lethal enough to lead Manchester City's title ambitions, Jovetic absolutely has to make an instant impact at the Etihad. The Montenegrin is more than equipped to be a star in England, but will he be afforded the opportunity to do so?

Joe Allen, Liverpool

Although not a world renowned star, Joe Allen was certainly a big name amongst Brendan Rodgers' plans when he was acquired from Swansea City.

The Welsh midfielder is an excellent distributor of the ball and loves to link the midfield and forward lines. His game is defined by short passing, intricate control and the ability to accurately distribute possession. Unfortunately for the Reds, the 23-year-old didn't recreate his 2012-13 form at Anfield last year.

Allen needs a massive season to remind everyone of his talents. Slick at his best, Rodgers may find it difficult to slot the player into his increasingly incisive team.

James McClean, Sunderland

James McClean's ill-disciplined nature simply won't work alongside Paolo Di Canio.

Since bursting onto the scene in 2011, the Irish winger has done nothing to justify the hype. While quick on the ball and able to bypass defenders, his laziness and temper often lowers the tone of Sunderland's play. He is easily frustrated, unreliable and has already lost some of the cutting edge that made him an instant hit.

One sign of this happening under the Italian manager, and McClean can say goodbye to his place at the Stadium of Light.

Mousa Dembele, Tottenham Hotspur

Mousa Dembele managed 26 starts during his first season with Spurs, as recorded by Whoscored.com. The Belgian midfielder continues to impress with his fine control and limitless energy, but he may have a problem once Sandro returns from injury.

Andre Villas-Boas now has the excellent Paulinho at his disposal. The Portuguese manager is likely to start with Sandro in a deep-lying role and Paulinho bustling between the lines. This leaves very little room for Dembele, who can carry out either role effectively.

The upcoming season should be exciting for fans of the North London club. Real competition for places across the board can only be considered healthy.

John Terry, Chelsea

Perhaps it is time for John Terry to give away his shoes, or indeed, his football boots.

The former England captain X2 has slowed down massively across the last year. He continues to struggle with injury and the "Creaking Legs syndrome," providing Jose Mourinho with the perfect time to wean him out of the team for good.

Of course, the pair have a successful relationship together. With David Luiz's terrific centre-back performances at the Confederations Cup reminding everyone he can actually defend, Terry's exclusion will come down to the form of Gary Cahill.

Whether he's included or not, you can bet Terry will be wearing his full Chelsea kit at all times.

Which big names do you expect to miss out on a starting place next season? Let me know in the comments section below and be sure to chat with me on Twitter:

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