Fan's eye view: We ask the people that matter - the supporters - for their take on the 2015/16 campaign
Supporters from each of the 20 Premier League clubs reveal their star performers and flops of the season
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ARSENAL Robert Henry
Player of the year
Petr Cech. The Czech was just what we needed – some stability and class in between the sticks and he inspired confidence in those in front of him. Overcame a tricky opening match to shine in his first few weeks and made up for those mistakes against West Ham with a fine display against Liverpool that set the tone for a superb first season at the Emirates.
Biggest let-down
Olivier Giroud (and the lack of goals in general). Yet again we’re more obsessed with tippy-tappy pretty stuff around the box but have struggled to get it into the box and the net. Olivier just isn’t the answer – how France keep picking him heaven only knows – and the lack of a competent forward shone through after Christmas in our usual late-season demise (flashes of class from Welbeck notwithstanding).
Team performance of the season
The comprehensive 3-0 win over Man United in early October. The sun was shining, Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil were combining superbly and we smashed Louis van Gaal’s team with room to spare. Just a week after becoming one of only two sides to beat Leicester, everything looked set for a sustained title challenge. And then it unravelled. And then Tottenham happened.
Newcomer of the season
Apart from Cech, it has to be Alex Iwobi. He only played in the latter half of the campaign but displayed such authority and maturity that bodes very well for the future. A classy bright prospect – where have we heard that before?
What we need for next season
Zlatan Ibrahimovic would be nice – providing Wenger doesn’t ask him to trial first! A presence up front would be great, not an immovable French beanpole or a midfielder who starts so far back as to almost break from defence every time we try and score. The fans also need to lay off Arsene Wenger – yes we have stalled at times in recent years but you can never forget what he has achieved for the club and a lot of the protests have been nothing less than insulting to the great man.
ASTON VILLA Chris Nee
Player of the year
It seems silly that we'd even have a player of the year, and we don't. There's a case to be made for Jordan Ayew, a player who's scored some fantastic goals and put in more effort than almost all the players around him in a woeful side.
Biggest let-down
Micah Richards has been an appalling acquisition. Having been brought in as captain, Richards has been part of the homogenous mass of incompetence and, from the outside at least, offered nothing in the way of the leadership Villa so sorely lacked.
Team performance of the season
It seems a long time ago but there were one or two performances worthy of praise under Remi Garde. They didn't end with three points, though, so they're barely worth a mention. I thought we were okay in the home draw against West Ham United.
Newcomer of the season
Ayew fits the bill here too. Jordan Amavi looked promising before his injury and Jordan Veretout showed flashes, but Richards and Joleon Lescott should be looking at Ayew and feeling ashamed of themselves. Rudy Gestede has fallen short but the lack of goals has been endemic.
What we need for next season
A revolution. A new owner remains the top priority because our club is rotten to the core. A good managerial appointment is a must, too, and on the field the most important find among a much needed rebuild is a striker who can score 25 goals in the Championship.
BOURNEMOUTH Giles Wellington
Player of the year
Simon Francis; made the step up to the Premier League with relative ease, played every minute and hardly put a foot wrong. Following a mid season injury crisis he moved across to centre back and excelled. Unbelievable that we picked him up on the cheap from Charlton some of whose fans put him in the category of one of the worst players to have played for them!
Biggest let-down
Juan Iturbe; We picked up the Argentinian U20 international in the January window on loan from Roma with an option to buy for £15m. An unbelievable signing for us or so we thought, however he’s made just two substitute appearances with the manager obviously not trusting him to fit into our system.
Team performance of the season
The win at Chelsea was amazing but the performance against Manchester Utd was very special. Harry Arter had lost his baby at birth just a few days earlier and the news broke on social media just 10 minutes into the game, the raw emotion both on and off the field was clearly visible and the atmosphere as we hung on to beat Utd will never be forgotten.
Newcomer of the season
Josh King; Having arrived from Blackburn in the summer he struggled at first as he adjusted to an unfamiliar ‘No 10” role having played the majority of his career on the wing. However, he has gained confidence with his strength and pace frightening a few defences and is an exciting prospect paired alongside a fit Callum Wilson.
What we need for next season
No injuries! Ideally, we could do with strengthening through the spine of the team, Boruc has made some great saves but can be a liability, so a new keeper, a strong centre back, and a mobile centre mid, but above all it would be great to see our front men stay injury-free.
CHELSEA Jayne Couchman
Player of the year
I would have to say Willian, as he's definitely been the most consistent player in a season when so often many big players didn't turn up. His free-kicks alone were enough to turn up for in the first half of the season, before his more illustrious team-mates bothered to turn up.
Biggest let-down
Despite his form over the last month - and that goal against Tottenham - it has to be Eden Hazard - although it could have been several others, including Fabregas, Matic and Ivanovic, who seemed worse as they had been so good the season before.
Team performance of the season
Well, will have to say the comeback against Spurs this month - we couldn't have them winning the title! - but that was a great game and team performance - the second half, anyway - and even Hazard scored a proper goal! Although beating City 5-1 in the Cup and Arsenal 2-0 are close seconds.
Newcomer of the season
I guess Ruben Loftus-Cheek, although we sadly haven't seen that much of him, but he is a Chelsea boy through and through (from the under 8s) and looks to have huge potential.
What we need for next season
A new thoughtful, quiet Italian manager (like the Tinkerman!), Hazard fired up, Zouma back from injury and John Terry as captain.... The invincibles.......watch out, we're coming back!
CRYSTAL PALACE Jason Crame, founder and editor of www.theeaglesbeak.com
Player of the year
It would have been James McArthur had he not had a spell out injured, but for me it is hard to argue with the player that got the club award, Wilfried Zaha. He has returned to the fantastic form that we experienced before his infamous spell at United.
Biggest let-down
Difficult one this. If I was to be particularly critical then I would suggest Jason Puncheon and Joel Ward have really not lived up to last season. However, the goalkeeping position has been disappointing particularly Wayne Hennessey who has had the run in the side but made silly errors.
Team performance of the season
So many to choose from - Chelsea and Liverpool away, Southampton at home and Watford in the FA Cup semi-final. If we win the final then that will be the performance of the season but just edging it is the 5-1 demolition of Newcastle at home. Simply a superb all-round performance even after going a goal down.
Newcomer of the season
So close to choose between Yohan Cabaye and Connor Wickham but the striker just edges. Even though he has missed plenty of game time which has been disappointing, in the games he has played has shown to be the striker that fits our formation perfectly. More to do with the promise if he can stay fit what he could achieve for us.
What we need for next season
A real focus on fitness and the training regime as the injury list has been the worst I have known it this season. No idea whether it has just been bad luck or something else contributing. Also strengthen the depth in the squad and get rid of some fringe players that just will not feature. Goalkpeeper, centre-back and striker are our biggest needs.
EVERTON Simon Patrick
Player of the year
Phil Jagielka. Offered some vestiges of the old David Moyes-era resilience, despite the defensive shambles around him. He showed the courage too of an Everton leader of old when playing superbly in the FA Cup semi-final defeat by Manchester United despite a hamstring injury.
Biggest let-down
Romelu Lukaku. Has scored 25 goals but has gone missing since that FA Cup wonder goal against Chelsea and his ensuing declarations about Champions League football. Missed seven good chances – and a penalty – in the semi-final against United. Awful, awful attitude. The £13m Oumar Niasse is a joke rather than a letdown.
Team performance of the season
2-1 v Man City, Capital One Cup semi-final first leg. Everton played well at certain points of many matches but lacked the discipline and organisation to capitalise over 90 minutes. The Capital One Cup win against Manchester City was possibly the nearest thing to a 90-min performance but even then they switched off and conceded a costly goal.
Newcomer of the season
Tom Cleverley has showed patches of quality. Ramiro Funes Mori has ability but needs some defensive coaching. The most impressive newcomer was left-back Brendan Galloway whose efforts in the left-back role in the early part of the campaign augur well for the future.
What we need for next season
A manager who will actually work on how to defend would be a step in the right direction. A manager who talks honestly would help too. A big summer lies in store for Farhad Moshiri, the new major shareholder – Evertonians would like to hear there’s a plan for the future.
LEICESTER CITY Liam Deacy
Player of the year
Asking a Leicester City fan to pick their player of the season is like asking a parent to choose their favourite child. N'Golo Kante and Riyad Mahrez have been revelations but for me it’s Jamie Vardy. He embodies everything our season has been built upon, determination, skill and hard work. ..
Biggest let-down
Singling out one individual as a let-down is very tough, the togetherness of the squad was a huge factor and everyone has played their part. Gokhan Inler’s struggle to adapt was initially disappointing but it did open the door to the Kante & Danny Drinkwater combination so who am I to complain?
Team performance of the season
There have been two stand out performances this season, Aston Villa at home when we came back from 2-0 down and the game that made people really sit up and take notice at the Etihad when we blew away Manchester City with an unbelievable team performance.
Newcomer of the season
Demarai Gray has been brilliant since he joined in January and if Mahrez does get snapped up by Barcelona I am sure Demarai will slot straight in. But without doubt the newcomer of the season has been the midfield mini-driving mole Kante. Class in every department.
What we need for next season
The speculation has already began, from Charlie Adam to Zlatan Ibrahimovic! I am sure we will be linked with them all. For me, whoever Steve Walsh and his scouting team identify I will be happy. Who am I argue with the team that brought us Kante, Vardy, Mahrez and more...
LIVERPOOL Michael Lynch
Player of the year
Philippe Coutinho, with Emre Can a close second. However, the diminutive Brazilian was enjoyed his most consistent season to date. Klopp has made him fitter, with him able to last 90 minutes on a regular basis unlike under Brendan Rodgers. With an array of stand out performances and goals to match - including a belter against Dortmund - Coutinho is fast becoming one of the best talents in the Premier League.
Biggest let-down
Mamadou Sakho. The Frenchman was enjoying an inspired run in the team with colossal performances against Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund only to test positive for a banned substance. Sakho had the admiration of the Kop, was set to captain his national team and looks to have thrown it all away.
Team performance of the season
There's been a few contenders.The 4-1 demolition of Manchester City at the Etihad and the 2-0 victory over United at Anfield were both excellent. However, the comeback against Dortmund to win 4-3 will go down in Anfield folklaw as one of the greatest European nights.
Newcomer of the season
Nathaniel Clyne. The former Southampton man looks a snip at £12million. Defensively solid and underrated going forward, Clyne has produced some superb performances, not least against Dortmund and Manchester United.
What we need for next season
A top class goalkeeper has to be at the top of Klopp's priorities. While Mignolet is capable of making some world class saves, he's too prone to mistakes and lacks a presence. The likes of Jack Butland, Joe Hart and Fraser Forster have all been linked but don't be surprised if an unknown German prodigy is snapped up. A top class centre-back is also a must with Sakho looking likely to be sidelined for the foreseeable future. More goals from central midfield are definitely needed and if we can keep Origi, Sturridge and Benteke fit then a striker may not be needed. A lot depends on whether we qualify for the Champions League as to the calibre of player we can attract.
MANCHESTER CITY Steve Williams
Player of the year
Undoubtedly Sergio Augero - a world class finisher, he possess an incredible record of goals for games unrivalled in the Premier League. My only worry is his performances against the best clubs in Europe.
Biggest let-down
Raheem Sterling is a huge letdown based on the fee, although Martin Demichelis leads a long list. He is clearly over the hill - everything gone all at once ... pace, reading of the game, ability to pass, and stay with a man, it's like an old man believing he still has it on the dance floor .... Tragic.
Team performance of the season
Sevilla away, one of few times they clicked - even Bony looked like he belonged in the team! Sharp in closing down, quick on the counter and lethal In front of goal. a real complete team performance, and Manuel tactically aware for once.
Newcomer of the season
While Kelechi Iheanacho has become the first academy graduate to regularly start since Micah Richards, I have my doubts. He is very ineffective when starting. The one that makes you dream is Brahim Diaz - he will make the first-team before 18. I'm convinced he has everything - balance, speed, two-footed, ability to dribble and beat a man and, just as importantly, a great attitude..
What we need for next season
Leicester have proved you need players with the right attitude and the ability to work as a team and not individuals; we need leaders and organisers, plus defenders comfortable with the ball, which Pep Guardiola will demand (and not one who is controlled by a PS remote, sliding at every tap, and the other scared of the ball!)
MANCHESTER UNITED Stuart Davis
Player of the year
Although De Gea got the club’s official award for the third year running, I think most fans’ votes would go for Anthony Martial this year. His signing came as a surprise to everyone – largely due to the fee – but he hasn’t failed to disappoint. If a debut goal against Liverpool wasn’t enough, he’s bailed us out all too often this year. It’s a joy to watch the way he glides past defenders.
Biggest let-down
Besides the manager? Probably Memphis Depay, merely due to the sheer excitement and expectation following his signing. That’s not to say he won’t improve under different management though, there’s still plenty to come from him. We haven’t been particularly short of let downs this year though, in almost every area.
Team performance of the season
At 3-2, the result might suggest otherwise, but the victory over Arsenal at Old Trafford was certainly one of the more satisfying results of the season. In the end it might not have quite been as comfortable as perhaps it should have, but the first half an hour in particular - which saw Rashford score twice in just his second game for the club – was one of the more complete, enjoyable spells of a particularly frustrating season.
Newcomer of the season
Not even close, Martial runs away with this one. Arriving as a relative unknown on these shores, any expectations we had of him, even at the price paid would have been far exceeded by what he’s achieved this season. The most exciting, dangerous player in our ranks by a mile, which the club must recognise and build a team around him. His FA Cup semi-final winner was without doubt one of the highlights of the season. Notable mention to Marcus Rashford.
What we need for next season
Lots! Tuesday night’s defeat to West Ham proved just how inept we are at the back. Daley Blind has been great in spells this year, but unfortunately a centre-back he is not. The team lacks leaders in the centre of the park in both defence and midfield so these would be the main areas of concern. In addition, a real right-winger or right-sided forward could make a huge difference to our attack. Both Mata and Lingard lack the pace to make the position their own.
NEWCASTLE UNITED Gareth Cox
Player of the year
Absolutely no stand out performer in a season of dross. Andros Townsend at least offered something when he arrived from Spurs in January. Offered a bit of flair and pace, good in possession and scored goals. Will inevitably not fancy the Championship and be sold.
Biggest let-down
Where do we start? A hotly-contested section, but winger Florian Thauvin was particularly hopeless. Signed for £15m from Marseille, Thauvin couldn’t pass, shoot, cross or tackle. Didn’t look like he cared and is one of the worst players I’ve seen at Newcastle. Which is saying something.
Newcomer of the season
After Townsend, Jamaal Lascelles offered some hope for the future. Only given a chance in the latter part of the season, Lascelles looked the part in defence and was open and honest about the attitude of some team-mates. Does beg the question: why wasn’t he in the team much earlier? Should be captain next season.
Team performance of the season
Oooof. A tough one. I suppose the 6-2 win over Norwich back in October, but even this was far from convincing, particularly in the first half where we lost the lead twice. Georginio Wijnaldum scored four and looked top quality – shame he disappeared completely when it mattered later in season.
What we need for next season
Very simple. Rafa Benitez. Nearly produced a miracle when he arrived, organised a group of individuals into something resembling a team and was ruthless in selection when needed. Mike Ashley should give him whatever he wants and let him re-shape club top to bottom.
NORWICH CITY (Derek Davis
Player of the year
Jonny Howson picked up the Barry Butler Memorial Trophy after being voted player of the season by supporters, which was testament to his consistency and inspirational midfield play coupled with four goals and four assists. The 27-year-old played every game until an injury against Manchester United meant he missed the final three games of the season. Wes Hoolahan and Robbie Brady were also stand-out players.
Biggest let-down
Sadly, mistakes from our experienced players, especially Sebastien Bassong and John Ruddy, let the Canaries down far too often. The inability to take chances at crucial times also proved costly and the promise of Youssouf Mulumbu failed to materialize, while Graham Dorrans didn’t live up to his reputation.
Team performance of the season
Beating Manchester United 2-1 in December not only gave City an historic first-ever win at Old Trafford but injected a huge amount of confidence into the players and fans. Alex Neil got his team selection and tactics spot on the players responded superbly with goals from Alex Tettey and Cameron Jerome.
Newcomer of the season
Although Swiss international Timm Klose did not arrive until January his class and contribution were immediately evident. City may struggle to keep hold of him as his is a top-flight centre-half all day long. Full-back Ivo Pinto arrived at the same time and after initially struggling has done better of late.
What we need for next season
Neil should stay and forge a far stronger defence, ideally built around Klose, and get better finishers up front. The Championship could be the perfect platform for some of City’s much-vaunted youngsters to step up, especially those such as twins Jacob and Josh Murphy, Carlton Morris and Harry Toffolo, who have been out on loan getting league experience.
SOUTHAMPTON Nick Roberts
Player of the year
Virgil van Dijk: The Dutchman had been described by some as a diamond in the rough prior to his arrival – undoubtedly a talent, but saddled with a misguided habit of banging forward unnecessarily. He has exceeded that appraisal by a country mile. Solid, remarkably mature, and a real threat from set pieces.
Biggest let-down
Jordy Clasie: Another Dutch recruit, but with a rather different outcome this season. Clasie has struggled in the physically demanding Premier League, and has continually been unable to leave his stamp on games. With a full season of experience under his belt now, can he become the passing maestro that was promised last summer?
Team performance of the season
Saints 4 Arsenal 0, Boxing Day: With the team low on confidence, and experiencing a typically dreary Christmas period, Saints required something extraordinary. Step up Cuco Martina. The right-back bent the ball with the outside of his boot around a bewildered Laurent Koscielny to give his side the lead, before Shane Long et al terrorised Arsenal further at the back.
Newcomer of the season
Van Dijk can't win two gongs so... Oriol Romeu: Not much had been made of Romeu when he came through the door, but he has developed as a solid alternative to Victor Wanyama this season. In fact, the Spaniard could and should have played more. Should Wanyama itch for a move to White Hart Lane again this summer, Romeu could well step into the breach.
What we need for next season
A right-back and a substitute 'keeper have to be scrawled on the top of Ronald Koeman's shopping list. Martina and Cédric Soares have not managed to reach the bar that Nathaniel Clyne set, while Maarten Stekelenburg may not want wish to be number two.
STOKE CITY Phil Hall
Player of the year
Marko Arnautovic. Stoke fans have all recognised his talent over the last three seasons but at times he has been frustrating and inconsistent. This season has seen him regularly show off his undoubted ability aligned with an impressive work rate and a very creditable 12 goals. Special mention too for the outstanding Jack Butland.
Biggest let-down
Xherdan Shaqiri. It's not that he's had a bad season, at times he has been excellent and scored a couple of superb goals. He came to Stoke with a big reputation as the then record £12m signing to help take us to the 'next level' but has been hampered by niggling injuries and has never managed to get a consistency that we all hoped for. 2016/17 should see that happen.
Team performance of the season
Manchester City, home, 2-0. It really could have been five or six. A day when it all 'clicked', the movement, the work rate, the sheer joy of watching Stoke move the ball so effortlessly against quality opposition, Arnautovic scoring twice, missing a great chance for three and setting up Shaqiri for a tap in that somehow was missed, with Bojan Krcic and Ibrahim Affelay having excellent games too.
Newcomer of the season
Gianelli Imbula. Stoke's £18m record January signing from Porto. Plenty of pressure on him, unable to speak the language, but even in a dour 3-0 home defeat by Everton in miserable conditions his quality was there to be seen. His recent form has dipped along with the team's, however, his performances at Bournemouth, including a fine long-range goal, and 'running' the game at Chelsea hint at hopefully what is to come. A special mention too for Glen Johnson, until injury curtailed his season.
What we need for next season
It's no doubt the same for many clubs, a quality out and out goal scorer - and how much do they cost! Jon Walters is to be admired, he gives it everything and scores some vital goals, Mame Diouf has had heart breaking personal issues, Joselu has shown the odd glimpses, and we all love Peter Crouch but his days at this level are doubtlessly coming to their conclusion. If Ryan Shawcross can get fully fit we need a regular reliable partner for him and another central midfield player to look to eventually establish himself as a long term option for the ever consistent and excellent Glenn Whelan
SWANSEA CITY Jim White (runs supporter's site www.scfc2.co.uk)
Player of the year
It’s a difficult choice as no player has really been head and shoulders of any other. Gylfi Sigurdsson won the fans' player of the year award at the end of season dinner and so would be my choice. He has scored some crucial, match-winning goals when we needed it!
Biggest let-down
We spent £10m in the summer on Franck Tabanou and Eder and neither player got going under Garry Monk and were shipped out in January when we could get something for them! As a club we can’t afford to waste £10m and yet we did with these 2 duds!
Team performance of the season
Our 2-2 draw on the opening day at Stamford Bridge was pretty good and I had hoped for a brilliant season but it went south from there! Going to Man City in Dec and narrowly losing was a good one but beating Arsenal at the Emirates would be my choice!
Newcomer of the season
Andre Ayew has scored goals and so has certainly been our best summer acquisition but he tends to drift in an out of games and hasn’t had any competition for this award! Modou Barrow is pretty new to the first team and excites Swans fans - quick, skilful with an eye for goal!
What we need for next season
It will depend on who leaves in the summer but a new centre forward is a must for the summer along with a strong ‘nothing shall get past me’ type of centre half. A new winger and a busy central midfielder who creates chances would also be high up on our shopping list!
SUNDERLAND Andy Bates
Player of the year
Without a shadow of doubt the player of the season has been the mature yet deadly Jermain Defoe. At 33 years old many saw him as a gamble with his advancing years, Yet he has single handily contributed towards Premier League survival with his 15 goals, 11 of those coming in 2016. His goals have now contributed directly to 14 points and without him we would already have been relegated.
Biggest let-down
Jeremaine Lens. The Netherlands international was a hot prospect at the start of the season following his move from Dynamo Kyiv. It may well have been to do with his falling out with Big Sam and the two weeks wages fine, but for me it was from the moment he picked up his red card against West Ham after scoring to put us in the lead at 2-0 he seemed to just simply fade away and didn’t seem to care. Some poor performances later and limited chances on the field are the reason I chose Mr Lens. Such a promising player at the start of the year.
Team performance of the season
Sunderland being Sunderland and the way we like leaving things until very late there are a few too many to mention. The 3-0 away win at Norwich was pivotal in our turn around and had we lost that would probably have gone down. The 3-2 home win against Chelsea despite being behind twice was a massive win, great endeavour at turning around the result twice and picking up a massive three points with our arch rivals failing to beat a Villa side who has lost their last 11 on the bounce . However the 3-0 home win to secure survival against Everton and to relegate Norwich and our nearest and dearest Newcastle was huge, Lots of Nerves that night and things could easily have gone wrong. Took lots of guts to go out and win so confidently and secure survival with a game to spare so this is my choice.
Newcomer of the season
For me it has to be Yann M’Vila, The Frenchman has only joined on loan for the season and looked a worrying prospect at the start of the campaign when on his debut he was sent-off for head butting an opponent in an under-21 game. Since that hot-headed moment he has showed true grit and determination and has helped to steady what was a sinking ship. Over 82% passing accuracy throughout the course of the season, he really is a class act. Picking passes left, right and centre and creating lots of attacking moves. He has declared massive interest in signing for Sunderland on a permanent basis and I really hope he does.
What we need for next season
More of the same as we showed towards the end of the year. The January additions of Wahbi Khazri, Jan Kirchhoff and Lamine Kone were truly great buys and have dramatically changed our fortunes. Id like Jeremaine Lens to want to fight for his place and maybe get Big Sam to invest wisely on a few new players. Another striker to support Mr Defoe would be ideal, Maybe worth investing big bucks for someone good for this role. I'd also like to send Duncan Watmore on loan to the Championship to improve his game and our loan signings of DeAndre Yedlin and Jann M’Villa should be signed on a permanent basis.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR Richie Raynor
Player of the year
Toby Alderweireld. We’ve lacked a rock at the heart of the defence for years. Last season we conceded more than relegated Hull and as many as Burnley. Signing Alderwerield has led to us having the best defence of the season. One of the best we’ve had down the Lane.
Biggest let-down
Nabil Bentaleb. This is a hard one as we have had our best ever PL season. One of the players that hasn’t progressed as we hoped. He has had injuries but even when he hasn’t been injured he hasn’t captured the form of last season.
Team performance of the season
Stoke away. Not only did we play some unbelievable football, it was a night when pressure was on to close the gap at the top following Leicester’s draw the previous day. Unfortunately since that game we havent performed but that one will always stand out.
Newcomer of the season
Dele Alli. A phenomenal first season in the Premier League, leading to him being crowned young player of the year. He has surpassed all expectations at 20years old. He will be an integral part of the Spurs (hopefully) and England squads for years to come.
What we need for next season
It is hard to pin-point what we need in the first XI, but we certainly need to improve the squad. We have no adequate replacement for Eric Dier and Mousa Dembele, shown by the fact we have lost five games all season and in those five games Dembele did not play three and made a 15-minute substitute appearance in another. We also need back up/competition for Harry Kane.
WATFORD Paul Cohen
Player of the year
Troy Deeney has been magnificent this season. I always believed his sheer bloody-mindedness alone would make him a success at Premier League level but augmenting his energy, determination and magnificent leadership has been no little skill. His striking partnership with Odion Ighalo formed the bedrock of Watford’s survival but unlike many of his team-mates, Deeney’s form has never wavered. Heurelho Gomes in second place - consistently excellent.
Biggest let-down
Jose Manuel Jurado’s high appearance stats this season has surprised – even bewildered – many Watford fans. Has shown flashes of attacking talent in a defensive team but without really imposing himself. Big-name (by Watford’s standards) signing Mario Suarez has struggled with the tempo of the Premier League which is a worry for next season.
Team performance of the season
The 3-0 home win over Liverpool in December was the season’s high point. Nathan Ake scored after three minutes and Watford never looked back. Ighalo gave Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho a torrid time, Almen Abdi was magnificent in midfield and 3-0 was basically a let-off for Liverpool. An amazing afternoon, but it’s been pretty much downhill ever since.
Newcomer of the season
Etienne Capoue clearly felt he had something to prove following an unhappy time at Tottenham. He hit the ground running at Watford, and never stopped. While Deeney and Ighalo were getting the goals, Capoue was covering the yards and he has looked a real class act. All that was missing was a goal.
What we need for next season
Juan Carlos Paredes and Allan Nyom are out of form, and with the likely return of Ake to his parent club Chelsea, some new full-backs will be a priority. And with ‘own goal’ our third highest scorer this season, someone other that Ighalo and Deeney with an eye for goal might be useful.
WEST BROMWICH ALBION Simon Bradbury
Player of the year
Jonny Evans, has that bit of extra class, time & character, often played out of position as well as Tony Pulis insists on his four centre-halves across the defence policy. Honourable mentions to Darren Fletcher & Craig Dawson. A difficult choice regardless and not for the right reasons.
Biggest let-down
Saido Berahino, without doubt the best striker we have, head got turned by Spurs & was badly advised in taking on the club. Attitude was poor until he realised he was not getting his move but was too late by then for many. Other than that, the manager for his continued negative suffocating tactics
Team performance of the season
It sums up our poor season when you are scratching your head at this as well. Away performances such as Liverpool, Leicester & Chelsea were good but yielded no wins so probably Man Utd or Arsenal at home. No coincidence that in all these games we let the hand brake off a little.
Newcomer of the season
Jonathan Leko, given a chance late but showed enough brief promise to hope he can be a star of the future. In a side bereft of pace, flair & creativity he shone. Hopefully he (& others) are given further chances & is not tempted away by reserve-team football for one of the bigger clubs.
What we need for next season
Where to start? An ageing squad needs refreshing all the way through. Proper modern-day full-backs, a midfielder who can break through the lines & a striker who has both pace & power is a minimum requirement. Oh, & a manager who takes the game to the opposition will give everyone a lift
WEST HAM UNITED Ashley Bass
Player of the year
Dimitri Payet. £11m for this French wizard was an absolute bargain. One of the most technically gifted players I've seen in a West Ham shirt. His presence on the pitch turns us into a completely different team and helps bring out the confidence in others. Nine league goals and some of the best free kicks I've ever seen. He is a vital piece of our future at The Olympic Stadium. A good European Championships for him and France should hopefully see him repeat last seasons' efforts.
Biggest let-down
Carl Jenkinson returned on loan after a successful spell the season before. Unfortunately it was a case of 'Jenkyll' and Hyde! His performances against Bournemouth and Tottenham were woeful, in which we conceded 4 goals in each. He also got sent-off in one and was at fault for a number of the goals. He then picked up a season-ending injury, and has been replaced by a winger who has done a much better job.
Team performance of the season
West Ham 3-2 Man Utd. So many to choose from, but our 3-2 win against Man Utd in our last game at the Boleyn showed the belief and character this team has. We have often folded in pressure games in the past, but the way the players believe in Bilic and each other has shown why we have only lost seven games this season. At 2-1 down against a Man Utd team gunning for fourth we picked ourselves up in the soaking rain and made sure we left our beloved home with the best possible send-off.
Newcomer of the season
Manuel Lanzini. A player who had been on the radar of Bilic for a while, but one that most of us had never seen or heard of. He was thrown in with the youngsters in our 2-1 defeat at Astra Giurgu, and found the net after about four minutes! He is another technically-gifted player who can have you on the edge of your seat everytime he gets the ball. Lanzini has scored some cracking goals this season and surely the Argentina national team is the next stop for a player who can be every bit as good as Payet.
What we need for next season
To simply follow on from this one! The style of football, the players we've signed, and a rock-loving genius of a manager...it's all contributed to our best ever season in the Premier League. We simply have to add more quality (Lacazette, Nordtveit and Walcott would all be great) and carry on buying into the way we play football. A new stadium and European competition for next season could mean the sky is the limit, and an exciting future should hopefully carry momentum from this great season into the next one.
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