The team of the season - so far

The Premier League has never been as close as it is this season, with sides at the top and bottom of the table battling for every single point. As the January transfer window shuts, we look at the players who have impressed us most this season...

1 Goalkeeper
Edwin Van der Sar, Manchester United

The Manchester United no 1 has set a new record for clean sheets this season, going 12 games without conceding. The Dutchman overtook the previous record holders Petr Cech (1,025 minutes) and Reading's Steve Death (1,103 minutes) and has now gone 1,122 minutes without conceding a goal. At 38 he is playing as well as ever, and if United do go on to win the league, Van der Sar will have played a huge part.

2 Right back
Jose Bosingwa, Chelsea

One of Scolari's most effective summer signings, Bosingwa has fitted straight into the Chelsea first-team and has featured in every league game this season. An attacking full-back who loves to get forward, he has been the world-class right-back the Blues have always lacked.

3 Left back
Ashley Cole, Chelsea

In recent seasons Cole has been accused of simply going through the motions. Not this year. Under Scolari's tutelage he has excelled, rampaging up and down the left flank, the England international has looked invigorated, providing Chelsea with more width and another attacking option. Reliable at the back - except for that slip-up at Liverpool – he has deserved the plaudits.

4 Centre back
Brede Hangeland, Fulham

One of the surprise success stories of the season, Fulham's stability at the back has been largely been down to Hangeland's solid displays. The giant defender has organised Fulham's defence week-in, week-out, repelling countless attacks and has helping the Cottagers to eight clean sheets, including four away, where they have picked up vital points.

5 Centre Back
Nemanja Vidic, Manchester United

As ever, Vidic has been a rock at the heart of Manchester United's defence. A defender with no ambitions other than to clear the danger, he rarely gets caught out attempting something risky. An excellent weapon at both attacking and defending corners, in his three years at Old Trafford Vidic has filled the void Jaap Stam left when he moved to Lazio in 2001.

6 Right midfield
Dirk Kuyt, Lierpool

The Dutch Alan Smith is enjoying his best season at Anfield. Kuyt's career at Liverpool has by no means been prolific with the Dutchman best known for being a "hard worker" – which is a bit like winning the most improved player award. This year however, he has started finding the back of the net and has notched up five league goals from the wing. With his lack of pace and modest dribbling ability, Kuyt might not look like a natural wide man, but his tireless work ethic and growing confidence have seen him finally get results.

7 Left midfield
Ashley Young, Aston Villa

There is no doubt that Ashley Young has been one of the stars of the season. Villa fans adore him, and the country is baying to see him get a run in the England side. His dazzling feet, raw pace and hunger for success have made him one of the most exciting young players in the country and his performances have inspired Villa in their assault on the top four.