As we pass the halfway point in the 2023/24 campaign and head into the mid-season player break, Alan Shearer has selected his Premier League Team of the Season so far.
The exciting, open nature of this season's title race is reflected by the fact that Shearer has picked three players each from Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins has earned a spot in attack and Unai Emery has been chosen as manager. It means there is no space for any Manchester City players.
Guglielmo Vicario (Spurs)
“Spurs' brave style under Ange Postecoglou means he faces lots of shots and also has to play out from the back under pressure. He has excelled in both areas."
Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
“His final ball is second to none. In certain matches he has willed Liverpool to a win from right-back or his new central-midfield role. Incredible.”
William Saliba (Arsenal)
“Class personified. The ease with which he defends and his confidence on the ball at his age is amazing.”
Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
“Rock solid at the back and leads the Liverpool defence superbly. He’s back to his best.”
Destiny Udogie (Spurs)
“An exciting young player. His pace has been invaluable in Spurs' high line and he has been effective going forward too."
Declan Rice (Arsenal)
“Has transitioned seamlessly into the Arsenal midfield. His tackling and reading of the game is superb, while he’s also scored some crucial goals.”
Douglas Luiz (Aston Villa)
“A brilliant midfielder who has been pivotal to Aston Villa’s success this season, with his goals at home particularly invaluable.”
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
“We are witnessing greatness. This season he’s scored his 150th Premier League goal, scored the joint-most goals along with Erling Haaland, and produced the joint-most assists.”
Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
“He has spearheaded the Villa attack with great link-up play and a keen eye for goal.”
Jarrod Bowen (West Ham)
“A clinical finisher who has been devastating for a West Ham side who thrive on the counter-attack.”
Son Heung-min (Spurs)
“He’s a special talent. When he gets the ball in front of goal, I have no doubt he will score.”
Manager: Unai Emery (Aston Villa)
“What a season Villa are having. Emery has built on a great finish to last season and his team are so strong at home, beating Manchester City and Arsenal to put themselves in the title race.”