1. Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa)
Aston Villa defender Mings has been impressive so far for the Premier League newcomers and was recently rewarded with his first-ever England call-up.
Signed from Bournemouth on a permanent deal in the summer after a successful previous season on loan, the 26-year-old has given Dean Smith’s defence an air of authority they will need if they’re to stay up.
After the first four games, the former Ipswich man has committed more blocks (nine) and made more headed clearances (19) than any other player in the top flight and it’s those sort of attributes which will probably be needed in abundance over the course of the campaign, in what could be a relegation scrap for Villa.
Mings is developing into a fine centre-half who defends well first, but can also play out from the back with aplomb and offer the occasional goal threat too.
Related: Everton Coach, Silva: Iwobi Will Show His Quality With More Games
2. Teemu Pukki (Norwich)
Pukki has arguably been THE star of the Premier League in the first month, scoring five goals in four games to help the Canaries get off to a solid enough start upon their return to the top flight.
The striker was prolific in their Championship title-winning season, scoring 29 goals, and he’s picked up where he left off in the second tier. Pukki found the back of the net against Liverpool at Anfield on the opening weekend and also scored against Chelsea, to underline his ability to do well against the bigger clubs – something which was questioned over the summer.
His hat-trick against Newcastle has been the highlight though, when he demonstrated his ruthless edge and confidence when bearing down on goal. Norwich will need him to be at his devastating best if they are to avoid relegation and the signs so far are good.
3. Caglar Soyuncu (Leicester)
The Foxes’ fine start to the season has been fairly well documented, but centre-back Soyuncu has not really attracted much attention for his displays.
After being asked to fill the considerable void left by Harry Maguire’s huge move to Manchester United, the Turkey international has stepped in with the minimum of fuss, forming a dependable partnership with Jonny Evans.
The 23-year-old has a 67 per cent tackle success rate so far this term, making 20 clearances and 22 recoveries, according to the Premier League’s official stats. Leicester may have been concerned at losing Maguire, but they appear to already have found a no-nonsense replacement.
Got what it Takes?
Predict and Win Millions Now