Liverpool’s signing of the Ivory Coast international in the summer was questioned. Whilst no-one debated the value of the free transfer, it suggested a lack of ambition on behalf of Brendan Rodgers following Toure’s underwhelming period at Manchester City. Instead, his composed performances saw Martin Skrtel resigned to the substitutes bench before Rodgers adopted a new formation to fit both players in the side.

3. Per Mertesacker

                               

The cumbersome German improved significantly last season on his mediocre first year at the Gunners. No-one could have anticipated the consistency he has shown during the current campaign, building up an effective partnership with Laurent Koscielny that has condemned Thomas Vermaelen to a bit-part role. Arsenal’s attacking play may have drawn the plaudits this season but it is their more cohesive defensive unit, with Mertesacker integral, that has provided their foundations.

4. Dejan Lovren

                               

After being linked with Tottenham and Inter Milan during the summer, this signing marked quite a coup for Southampton. The cultured defender has had an immediate impact on the side too, providing the solidity and intelligence that the team often lacked in defence last season. The Croatian international has also hit the headlines for his winning goal at Liverpool and part in his side’s equalizer at Manchester United.

5. José Fonte

                               

Some observers believed Lovren’s signing meant the end of a Southampton career for Fonte, who has been at the club since the days of League One. Instead, they have formed a miserly partnership that has churned out clean sheets. Last season, the Portuguese player was part of a defence that had conceded 24 goals in the opening eight games – this year, that total is just three.

6. Aaron Ramsey

                              

Considering the Welshman would be competing for central midfield positions with Jack Wilshere, Santi Cazorla, Mathieu Flamini and Mikel Arteta, many thought his impact on the side would be limited. Instead, Ramsey has been arguably the player of the season, consistenly producing dominant performances for Arsenal. His nine goals – as many as he had scored in the previous four years – have confirmed his current status as the Gunners’ most important player.

7. Robbie Brady

                               

After showing glimpses of his undoubted talent on the opening day against Chelsea, the ex-Manchester United player has inspired Hull to their lofty position in the top half of the table. The Irishman has scored in each of his side’s three victories this season and his form will be vital to how Hull perform for the remainder of the campaign.

8. Adnan Januzaj

                            

It perhaps reinforces Manchester United’s midfield problems that their most inspiring player in the middle third this season has been an 18-year-old debutant. Januzaj may have started just two games but his incisive passing and use of space has forced him into the United team in front of Ashley Young, Nani and Shinji Kagawa. Already touted for superstardom, David Moyes must take huge credit for taking a risk on the player at such a young age.

9. Ross Barkley