Petr Cech: The Liverpool match was a rare bad day in office, but the Chelsea custodian remains our best best under the bar. Good shot stopper and assured in the air.

Daniel Alves: The swashbuckling lateral back of Barcelona adds depth to the pitch and pace to a counter-attack with the ability to whip telling crosses into the box.	John Terry: The Chelsea skipper remains an inspirational figure in the heart of defence. Also a serious threat in the rival box with his head.

Rio Ferdinand: The Rock in Sir Alex’s rearguard. Much of Man U’s success story has been scripted in the back by the Rio-Vidic combo.	Ashley Cole: Is still full of running and can provide the attacking flair and width on the left. The Chelsea man is a great goal-line defender on flag-kicks.

Cristiano Ronaldo: The Man U maverick rides his 40-yard thunderbolt that killed Porto into this line-up despite a below-par season.	Steven Gerrard: No player in the world is more valuable to his team than Mr Liverpool. A true talisman who can start and finish a move and rule a game with stamina and skill.

Cesc Fabregas: This Arsenal boy can deliver the most telling final ball through the eye of the needle. Reads the game with a maturity beyond his years (21) and runs Wenger’s engine room with quiet efficiency.	Lionel Messi: The best attacking player in the world. Period. This Barcelona magician destroys defences with a sublime touch and an angelic smile.

Fernando Torres: This razor-sharp striker has a telepathic understanding with Gerrard and is unstoppable if the ball is played in front of him. Pretty as a picture.	Wayne Rooney: His power and pace can unlock the stodgiest of defences. Man U’s best player this season is finally making it count.