10. Claude Makelele
Once the Frenchman’s influence in the Premier League finally became apparent, the position of defensive midfielder was named after him in the famed ‘Makelele role. Another brilliant player accused of being unglamorous, he left a lasting impression not just on Chelsea, but on the game as a whole.
9. Youri Djorkaeff
Mostly remembered for his time at Bolton, many seem to forget that Djorkaeff won both the World Cup and the European Championships in 1998 and 2000, respectively, albeit in the shadow of the awe inspiring Zinedine Zidane.
8. Kevin Davies
Big, strong, and not somebody to be trifled with. He’s been responsible for more blows of a Premier League referee’s whistle than anyone else, and like Heskey, never prolific, but the perfect foil for somebody else with a greater eye for goal than he.
7. James Milner
Reliable , talented and ultimately professional. Milner is a manager’s wet dream, but has often suffered from the versatility tag, meaning he has often been made to fill in positions where the best won’t be gleaned from him. However, he’s never let anybody down and chips in with more than his fair share of goals and assists.
6. Chris Waddle
Unbelievably skilful, it’s no surprise that he moved to France at the peak of his powers as his abilities were best suited to teams able to indulge in more technical styles of play. Won a European Cup with Marseille, and gave England an extra edge, particularly at Italia 90.
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