What do Javier Hernandez, Scott Parker and Andy Carroll have in common? They were all players we named as players to watch in the EPL last season! Again, we take a look at upcoming stars and several players who we expect to shine in the season ahead. This year’s list has a mix of new and old players who have moved to new clubs. See which players you agree with, and if there are others you feel will excel this season, add them as a comment below!
Tom Cleverly – Man Utd
Cleverly proved while on loan at Wigan last season that he is a player ready to play a pivotal role with a top team. Pending Wesley Sneijder doesn’t arrive before the transfer window closes on Aug 31st, Cleverly is going to be a big player for Man Utd this season. The fact that fellow players have stated he has been the most impressive during preseason will do wonders for his confidence.
Charles N’Zogbia – Aston Villa
N’Zogbia is a player who has proven his worth in the EPL over previous seasons. In fact, he nearly kept Wigan in the Premier League last season. Now comes a new challenge, and with N’Zogbia filling the role formally held by Ashley Young, he has a lot to prove. I have no doubt he will bag plenty of goals and could really flourish with the Villains.
Adel Taarabt – QPR
Wanted by many of the top teams in Europe, QPR had to fight to keep their star Moroccan midfielder during the summer. Adel Taarabt will be a key figure in QPR’s attempt to stay in the Premier league. He bagged 19 goals in 44 games last season, and will be looking to get into double figures again this time around.
Stuart Holden – Bolton
Holden has not had much look when it comes to injuries over the past few seasons. He was inspirational last season, until a rash Johnny Evans tackle put him out for several months. He has transformed in a pretty complete midfielder and could be a top player this season – pending he can stay injury free. Holden is expected back on the pitch over the next month.
Gabriel Obertan – Newcastle Utd
This selection ended up being a coin-flip between Obertan and Cabaye. But, I feel like Obertan has a point to prove this season have endured a lot of bench time at Manchester United over the past two years. The pacey winger has lacked the ability to defend at times, but this preseason, before his transfer to Newcastle, was without a doubt his best and he could be a pivotal player for the Toon Army.
Shane Long – West Brom
WBA forked out a hefty $10million transfer fee for the Irish striker earlier this week and he is sure to want to pay this back as soon as possible. His performances for the Irish national team have only improved over the past year, and having banged in 23 goals in 45 games last season he will want to prove a point in the big league. I also think he will prosper under the wings of Roy Hodgson, a manager renowned for bringing the best out of young players.
