Deciding the ultimate starting XI for a calendar year in Premier League football is a difficult task, as the 12 months stretches across halves of two seasons.
For example Manchester United’s finish in 2012/13 to regain the title was brilliant, but since Sir Alex Ferguson left as manager 2013/14 has been somewhat disappointing.
However, here at fanatix we like a challenge so see if you agree with our best lineup from 2013:
Goalkeeper – Wojciech Szczesny, Arsenal
This was a really tough choice, as Tim Howard, Simon Mignolet and most prominently David De Gea were all strong contenders, but Szczesny’s step up from unreliable stopper to the best in the league has been impressive.
Right-back – Pablo Zabaleta, Manchester City
An extremely consistent performer who is only really realistically challenged by Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic for this spot, as Rafael has fallen out of favour at Old Trafford.
Centre-back – Phil Jagielka, Everton
The unsung hero of the Toffees team, but with the Merseysiders performing brilliantly over the past two terms it was only right their superb captain got a place.
Centre-back – Jan Vertonghen, Tottenham Hotspur
There may be a few raised eyebrows at this inclusion with Spurs having lost 6-0 to City and 5-0 to Liverpool already this season, but the Belgian is among the best defenders in the entire division.
Left-back – Leighton Baines, Everton
Patrice Evra may have had a resurgence this year and youngster Luke Shaw has been impressive at Southampton, but 2013 certainly belongs to Baines.
Central midfield – Steven Gerrard, Liverpool
It was difficult to leave out both Yaya Toure and Saints’ underrated midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin, but in the end this age-defying skipper gets the nod for just sheer class.
Central midfield – Aaron Ramsey, Arsenal
This isn’t fanatix jumping on a bandwagon, honestly, as many forget just how good the Welshman was towards the end of last campaign and the form of the 22-year-old this term just caps off a great year.
Right wing – Gareth Bale, Tottenham Hotspur
Admittedly the Wales international generally played as a No.10 in 2012/13 and has also missed half the year because of a certain world record transfer to Real Madrid – but Bale was utterly brilliant last term.
Centre forward – Luis Suarez, Liverpool
Being banned for 10 matches and still getting into this team is no mean feat, but the goal-scoring form of the Uruguayan makes Suarez an instant inclusion in this side.
Left wing – Eden Hazard, Chelsea
A slight stutter at the start of this season is the only blip on what has been a brilliant 18 months for the Belgium international in England and the Blues now rely on the winger.
Striker – Robin Van Persie, Manchester United
If anyone is going to save David Moyes’ first year at the Red Devils then it’s this Dutchman, who was named as the main reason they regained the title last campaign and when fit has been ruthless this time around.
Honourable mentions: David De Gea (MUN), Patrice Evra (MUN), Morgan Schneiderlin (SOT), Yaya Toure (MAN), Daniel Sturridge (LIV).
Manager – Arsene Wenger, Arsenal
This was a really difficult choice with Brendan Rodgers, Mauricio Pochettino and even Roberto Martinez close contenders, but the Gunners have been brilliant this calendar year.
