Joe Hart's loan spell with Birmingham has projected him into World Cup contention. One of his biggest admirers is the man he's been keeping out of the Blues' team, Maik Taylor, who says: "I really do believe he will be England's first choice one day. There is no doubt about that."

Branislav Ivanovic (Chelsea)

After a slow but steady start to his Chelsea career, Ivanovic has established himself as an important cog in the works at Stamford Bridge and has virtually made the right-back slot his own. Now he says he wants to reach the 100-appearance mark quicker than he made 50.

Patrice Evra (Manchester United)

When someone of the stature of Denis Irwin says that Patrice Evra is every bit as important to Manchester United as Wayne Rooney then you know we are talking top quality. "Patrice has been our player of the season," commented Irwin. Just about says it all really.

Thomas Vermaelen (Arsenal)

Thomas Vermaelen was the Gunners' major summer signing in 2009 and has proved to be an ideal replacement for Kolo Toure, who left for Manchester City. His tackling ability, aerial strength, positional awareness, calm distribution and goal threat have already made him a fans' favourite.

Richard Dunne (Aston Villa)

Richard Dunne has been a rock at the back for Aston Villa this season and, according to Martin O'Neill, became even stronger after the Republic of Ireland's World Cup exit at the hands of France. O'Neill said: "In terms of his application and professionalism, he has been excellent."

Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal)

It has been a difficult season for Fabregas, given the injury problems he has had, but he remains the 'heartbeat' of the Arsenal team and his commitment to the cause was epitomised by his penalty against Barcelona after suffering a fracture to his leg which ended his club season.

James Milner (Aston Villa)

"It is as if he has been there all his career" - the words of Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill speak volumes about the seamless transition of James Milner from wide man to midfield playmaker with more quality strings to his bow than a Stradivarius.

Darren Fletcher (Manchester United)

There was perhaps a time when Darren Fletcher was seen as something of a midfield 'workhorse', pounding the beat as back-up for Manchester United's more colourful creators...not any more. The ever-improving Scotland international has developed into a world-class performer in his own right.

Antonio Valencia (Manchester United)

Bought by Sir Alex Ferguson from Wigan for £16million last summer, Valencia had a relatively quiet start to his United career, but he has burst into life since the turn of the year and his expert delivery from wide positions has helped Wayne Rooney become United's 'head boy'.

Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

The fact that the whole football nation held its breath as an injury to United and England's main man threatened to wreck our summer said everything you need to know about one of the most complete forwards this country has produced. Crucial to club and country.

Didier Drogba (Chelsea)

If John Terry and Frank Lampard are the leaders of the group, Didier Drogba is not far behind. The Ivory Coast striker continues to provide the goals and the inspiration for a team that promises so much and he's ready to take the World Cup by storm.