41. Mikel Arteta (2005-present) Our current midfield laureate, Arteta has feet like Rory Delap’s arms and more importantly, a sharp footballing brain. His ruthless combination of power and technique led to a series of unstoppable free kicks last season. Ostensibly brought in as Thomas Gravesen’s replacement – Arteta has gone on to outshine the Dane. No diver, Arteta is instead equipped with the fleet-footed skill and innate sonar to pick up countless fouls against him. Last season, following a move to central midfield, chairman Bill Kenwright compared the Spaniard to Alex Young, the “Golden Vision”; dubbing Arteta La visión de Oro. He has been sorely missed as he recuperates...
