Unsung Heroes: The Top 10 Underrated Players in the EPL

1. Mikel Arteta (Midfielder, Everton)

Perhaps the most underrated player in the English Premier League, Mikel Arteta brings the Toffeemen quality and flair on a consistent basis.

Blessed with vision and a deadly cross, Arteta is the heartbeat of Everton Football Club.

Surprisingly, Arteta has never been called up to play for his national side of Spain. The Spaniards could really use this maestro’s skill.

2. Kolo Toure (Defender, Arsenal)

It’s hard to argue against Kolo Toure’s man-marking ability. Rarely getting beaten, Toure uses his pace and strength to fend off opposing attackers.

Blessed with great tackling skills and uncanny leaping ability, Toure always finds a way to win one-on-one challenges.

Overshadowed by his French counterpart, William Gallas, Toure is an underrated defender who should be compared with the likes of Terry, Puyol and Nesta.

3. Gareth Barry (Midfielder/Defender, Aston Villa)

Barry's fantastic performance for his country against Estonia proved his class and skill.

Able to play numerous positions, Barry shows fantastic versatility and adaptability that other players simply don’t possess.

While not as skilled as some wingers, Barry can always be counted on to deliver deadly crosses with his left foot.

You can see why the Aston Villa faithful love him.

4. Paul Scholes (Midfielder, Manchester United)

Known for his modesty and positive attitude, Paul Scholes is undoubtedly one of the most underrated players in England’s top flight.

While all the hype was about Cristiano Ronaldo’s breakout year in 2006, Scholes was a key figure in Manchester United’s championship season.

Drawing praise from fellow footballers, Scholes continues to bring consistency and leadership to Sir Alex’s side.

According to Sir Bobby Charlton, Scholes is the one player on United who embodies the prestige of playing for the Red Devils.

That’s some much-deserved recognition for the former England international.

5. Joleon Lescott (Defender, Everton)

The former Wolves player has done a fantastic job fitting into David Moyes’ plans at Merseyside.

Demonstrating command and control on the back end for Everton, Lescott’s leadership stabilizes the rear four. Possessing a powerful header, Lescott often finds himself on the end of crosses sent into the box.

It wasn’t until recently that Lescott made his debut for England. Replacing Rio Ferdinand at halftime, Lescott finally found himself in the thick of things against lowly Estonia.

Well done, Joleon. You deserve it.

6. Emanuel Pogatetz (Defender, Middlesbrough)

Not surprisingly, Pogatetz has been nicknamed "Mad Dog" at Riverside Stadium. One of the hardest working players in England’s top flight, Pogatetz always gives his all on every play.

While he may not be the most talented player at his position, his work ethic and desire more than make up for any deficiencies.

Former Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren was quoted as saying, "[Pogatetz] never, ever, gives less than 300 percent in performance."

7. Tim Cahill (Midfielder, Everton)

Cahill’s skill is often overlooked by pundits paying more attention to Steven Gerrard or Frank Lampard.

But if Arteta is the heartbeat of Everton, then Cahill is definitely the soul of the club.

Renowned for his energetic runs into the box and his tough tackling ability, the Australian international is the complete package.

His transfer to Everton from Millwall for a modest price of 1.5 million pounds was a steal.

8. Richard Dunne (Manchester City, Defender)

With the arrival of stars such as Elano and Petrov, Richard Dunne doesn’t quite get the recognition he deserves.

Displaying amazing leadership qualities, Dunne earned the armband at City of Manchester Stadium at the young age of 26.

Dunne has taken rising star Micah Richards under his wing, and the two have formed a formidable tandem on the back line.

Richards, an England international, has nothing but praise for his fellow teammate:

"Ever since I’ve come to this club Richard has just been quality. I play with him week in, week out, and I think he’s one of the best players I’ve played with. I’ve played with John Terry and Rio Ferdinand in the England squad, but Richard is right up there with them."

9. Nicky Shorey (Reading, Defender)

Blessed with fantastic football instincts, Royals left back Nicky Shorey undoubtedly has been Steve Coppell’s most consistent player.

Although rumoured to be on the move to Newcastle United and West Ham United, Shorey opted to stay at Madejski Stadium for another year.

Having already earned his second international cap, Shorey will be looking to catch the eyes of Steve McClaren and pundits alike.

10. Antonio Valencia (Wigan Athletic, Attacking Midfielder)

Having come over on loan from Spanish giants Villarreal CF, Valencia looks to be a fantastic addition for a Wigan squad lacking flair and creativity.

Teams in England are quickly finding out about this Ecuadorian’s talent. With his ability to play any number of different positions, Valencia would be a valuable asset for any Premier League side.

Valencia’s technical skills and speed will be relied on heavily if Ecuador is to qualify for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Watch out for this burner. You might miss him with a blink of the eye.