The Under-Rated 20: Part 1

By Brian Lofrumento | 16th December 2008

The Under-Rated 20: Part 1 | read this item

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With the year coming to a close, many media sources will be compiling lists of some of 2008’s best moments. Yes, admittedly, Premiership Talk is one of these sites, too. Joe Warrington is compiling a list of reader’s fondest 2008 memories in the forum, so head on over there to give him your memories.

This feature is not one such list, though. With the year winding down, Premiership Talk is going to highlight the twenty Premier League players who are under-rated. These are the players that, throughout the course of their careers, have proved to their local fans that they deserve the glory. Unfortunately, they often don’t get that glory. Without further adieu, let’s applaud these players. Check back in the coming weeks for the entire list of twenty players (there will be five parts).

20. Clint Dempsey

Forward/Midfielder, Fulham FC, United States of America

Maybe I’m a bit partial with this one, but I was lucky enough to see Dempsey play in person while he was in the MLS and also for the US National team. He hasn’t exactly been hitting the lights out for Fulham, but he has shown his class in the few appearances he’s been granted. Dempsey’s most natural position is as an attacking midfielder, but two seasons ago when he slotted in as Fulham’s striker he led the team in scoring, even though he only figured in their plans from August to January. If Dempsey was afforded a few more appearances I think all of England would see his worth, as Fulham fans already have faith in the Texan rapper. Managerial changes haven’t helped his cause, but give him time.

19. Rafael da Silva

Defender, Manchester United FC, Brazil

While Rafael has only been in the Premier League since August, I still think he is one of the most under-rated players in the league. Rafael has already stolen a starting right back spot from Wes Brown and Gary Neville (injuries have helped, yes), and his name should be known up and down the coasts of England. It is not, though, and it’s only a matter of time before Rafael shows he can be one of the greatest right backs in world football. With one senior goal already under his belt, Rafael is the complete package. Most people argue Rafael’s defending is suspect, but the youngster effectively denied Aaron Lennon in United’s most recent match. Rafael, you’re a class defender, and it’s a joy watching your attack-oriented defending style.

18. Kieran Richardson

Midfielder, Sunderland AFC, England

Bear with me for a little longer, I promise not everyone in this list has a connection with Manchester United. Richardson, however, is a fantastic midfielder who has never really received the credit he deserves. At United he was treated as a sub-par player, even though his appearances often resulted in goals. At Sunderland he’s had a career rejuvanation, but injuries have stunted his impact. Kieran has a pinpoint and vicious shot, and his pace gives defenses around the league trouble. Few midfielders in the league can rocket goals in the way that he can, and this is all too often overlooked. Kieran Richardson is a class player for both club and country, as he scored twice in his England debut. It is for these reasons that he is one of the most under-rated players in the Premiership.

17. Benjani

Striker, Portsmouth FC, Zimbabwe

Benjani is largely an unknown quantity in the league. His only full season in England was in 2007/08. He was signed by Portsmouth in the middle of the 2005/06 season from Auxerre, where he scored nearly 40 goals. In 2006/07 his season was interrupted by the African Cup of Nations, so finally in 2007/08 we got a real glimpse of Benjani. The striker got off to a quick start to the season with 12 goals in 21 Premier League appearances for Portsmouth before Manchester City purchased him. He went on to score the match winning goal against Manchester United in his first derby match for City at Old Trafford. Benjani’s chances after that were limited, but there is no denying his talent. Benjani is a striker full of pace, good finishing ability, and is a force to be reckoned with in the air. Once he gets on his feet again, watch this striker.

Keep tuning in to Premiership Talk for the rest of the under-rated twenty. In the meantime, check out the Premiership Talk Podcast! The first edition is out.

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