With the 2025/26 Premier League season taking a break for the FA Cup this weekend, Alan Shearer has picked his star performers from the opening 21 Matchweeks and selected his Team of the Season so far.
Premier League Hall of Fame inductee and record goalscorer Shearer has included three players from Arsenal, while Sunderland, Chelsea and Manchester City are represented by two each.
Shearer's line-up has a blend of youth and experience, with seven of the 11 players being aged 25 or younger.
Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
"Hard to believe he is still only 22 and playing in the Premier League for the first time. He has been absolutely superb for Sunderland and pulled off some huge saves in really important matches. Seven clean sheets is a testament to that."
Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)
"He's been a huge part as to why Arsenal have conceded the fewest goals this season - just 14 - and why they have looked so tight defensively. His two goals and three assists are already more than his total from the 2024/25 campaign."
Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace)
"The ultimate professional. Brilliant this season for Palace, protecting their backline, scoring, assisting, and so calm in possession, whether he is under pressure or not. He has a real air of authority and composure."
Gabriel (Arsenal)
"Immense at both ends of the pitch and key to Arsenal's excellent season so far. He reads the game so well, making fantastic defensive clearances, but has an uncanny knack of popping up at corners too, with goals already."
Marc Cucurella (Chelsea)
"The stats back up what an impressive season he is having for Chelsea - 88 per cent successful pass rate, 35 tackles and 18 interceptions, and not much has got past him. He's always willing to add his support going forward too."
Granit Xhaka (Sunderland)
"Surprised a few people when he swapped the Bundesliga for Wearside - but what an inspired move it has been! His ball-playing ability has been magnificent, as has his leadership qualities on and off the pitch."
Declan Rice (Arsenal)
"In his third season at Arsenal and just seems to get better all the time. A real driving force in midfield - and the odd occasion when he has been used as a makeshift right-back. Never looks fazed and is very comfortable with the ball, making it very difficult for opposition teams.”
Moises Caicedo (Chelsea)
"An absolute powerhouse in the centre of midfield for Chelsea. Has energy and talent in abundance. A brilliant all-rounder who has added goals to his game this season with some stunning strikes."
Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)
"His ball-playing ability and quality of goals has been sensational. He has not just been a match-winner, but a game-changer to help Villa stay right in the thick of the title race. An unbelievable season.”
Erling Haaland (Man City)
"How can he not be in? Barring injury, I can't see anyone else getting that Golden Boot come the end of the season. He is a goalscoring machine and doesn't fail to deliver. Phenomenal.”
Phil Foden (Man City)
"He's been one of City's standout players, and that's saying something because Pep Guardiola has some outstanding players in his team. Some of his goals - and some of his performances - have been out of this world.”
Manager: Unai Emery (Aston Villa)
"The manager may be a surprise to some, but how Emery has got his side playing and challenging for the title after failing to win any of their opening five Premier League games of the season is a credit to him. He also masterminded a victory over leaders Arsenal, a result that helped Villa to an incredible 11 straight wins in all competitions."