By Martin Graham
Every Premier League team has that one footballer who seems to hold the whole system together: the figure whose presence defines performances and results. At Arsenal, the fans stand out Rice Declan as the central force behind his impressive campaign. Laura Kirk-Francis of The Latte Firm notes how Rice combines defensive control with attacking contributions, calling him “imperious” and suggesting his £105m move already looks like a bargain. Seven clean sheets and five involvements in goals speak of his growing influence.
For Aston Villa, the onus falls Ollie Watkinsa striker whose confidence can dictate the team’s success. My Old Man Said’s David Michael admits Villa rely on him to get goals in a system designed around his runs and movement. Despite a slow start, Watkins’ all-round ability remains crucial to Unai Emery’s plans.
In Bournemouth, there is no debate: Antoine Semenyo is the highlight. Back of the Net’s Tom Jordan praises the Ghanaian’s pace, power and versatility, praising his contributions of nine goals in just 10 games. His energy has been key in pushing the Cherries to fifth place.
Brentford, meanwhile, are heavily reliant Mikkel Damsgaard. Beesotted’s Ian Westbrook calls him “the guy who makes things work”, admiring his vision and scope. Under Keith Andrews, Damsgaard’s creativity keeps the Bees steady in mid-table.
in Brighton, Danny Welbeck he has become more than just a forward option. We Are Brighton’s Scott McCarthy argues that the veteran’s leadership and finishing often decide results, noting that the Seagulls usually win when he scores. With six goals in 10 games, his form has even prompted talk of an England exit.
From Burnley to Liverpool: steady hands and relentless engines
Among Burnley’s many newcomers, Martin Dubravka stands out No Nay Never’s Natalie Bromley credits the Slovakian goalkeeper’s experience and reflexes for saving valuable points. His 41 saves in 10 games underline how vital he has been in keeping the Clarets out of the bottom three.
At Chelsea, with Cole Palmer injured, Moises Caicedo has intensified Chelsea News’ Will Faulks describes how the Ecuadorian midfielder’s arrival and new attacking edge have been decisive. Three goals and an assist highlight his growing impact on the evolution of Enzo Maresca’s setup.
Crystal Palace fans point Daniel Muñozthe Colombian full-back who feeds Oliver Glasner’s system. Alex Pewter of the FYP podcast calls his resilience and balance between defense and attack “irreplaceable”, noting that Palace have no comparable alternatives in the squad.
For Everton, Jack Grealish it brings a creative spark and a fear factor. Mike Richards of the Unholy Trinity podcast says the City loanee “scares opponents” with his dribbling and vision. With four assists and a goal already, he has been a bright spot in an inconsistent campaign.
In Fulham, Ryan Sessegnon has been re-established as a vital figure. Fulhamish’s Drew Heatley highlights how he has adapted to cover for Antonee Robinson, contributing two goals while maintaining solid defensive numbers. His composure and versatility make him indispensable.
Meanwhile, Leeds watch Noah Okafor to attack inspiration. Adonis Storr of The Roaring Peacock calls it the creative spark on the side, calling for consistency as the key to survival. The Swiss forward leads the team in goals alongside defender Joe Rodon, showing his importance in Daniel Farke’s set-up.
In Liverpool, Dominik Szoboszlai earn top billing. Empire of the Kop’s Jordan Chamberlain praises his tireless work-rate and creativity, urging manager Arne Slot to keep him centrally rather than out wide. Contributions of two goals only tell part of the story of a player driving the pace of the champions.
Manchester giants and North East contenders
At Manchester City, the answer is simple: Erling Haaland. City Xtra’s Freddie Pye points out that Haaland’s goals, now 13, are more than his team-mates combined. Guardiola’s men are reliant on their form and accuracy to chase trophies again.
for Manchester United, Casemiro it is seen as the glue that holds things together. Turk Talks FC’s Alex Turk says the Brazilian’s leadership and defensive awareness stabilizes the team, noting that most of United’s goals conceded have come when he has been off the pitch. With four recent goal contributions, his influence also extends to the attack.
Newcastle United fans trust Sandro Tonali. True Faith’s Charlotte Robson calls the Italian midfielder the best she has seen at St. James’ Park, praising his passing and his energy. Signed until 2029, Tonali’s control of the game remains crucial to Eddie Howe’s system.
In Nottingham Forest fighting, Nico Williams has emerged as a reliable constant. Pat Riddell of The Famous Club praises his work ethic, noting his consistency despite managerial upheaval. Having played every minute and even scored a goal, Williams symbolizes the struggle in a difficult season.
From Sunderland to Wolves: captains, warriors and workhorses
Sunderland, back in the top flight after eight years, have found their leader Granit Xhaka. Roker Report’s Gavin Henderson calls him “an absolute warrior”, crediting the captain’s mindset and professionalism for the club’s unexpected rise to fourth. Three assists and four clean sheets highlight his double impact in midfield.
At Tottenham, Cristian Romero embodies both aggression and control. Women of the Lane’s Ali Speechly says the Argentina captain sets the tone defensively as he launches attacks with bold passing. His presence has been vital to three clean sheets under Thomas Frank.
West Ham backs up Jarrod Bowenwhich continues to deliver in front of the goal. The 28-year-old skipper is more involved in goals than anyone else in the team, guiding the Hammers as they look to escape danger under new boss Nuno Espirito Santo.
Finally, the Wolves from the bottom position find the lead João Gomes. Dazzling Dave of Always Wolves praises his “grit and heart”, describing how his energy and tackling lifts the side even in defeat. With more progressive passes than any team-mate, he remains at the heart of Wolves’ revival hopes.
