No Gray Areas - the season's best bits
It's been a long and eventful season - from Chelsea's early dominance to Manchester United's long unbeaten run and eventual record-breaking 19th league title - so I think it's time to reflect on some of the key protagonists and events. I've got no time for criticising those who have struggled so I've decided to roll exclusively with the good times. Here's my 2010-11 top five...
Best Player
Carlos Tevez has been prolific and thrilling to watch in a team of new players. It can take a while for new signings to gel but Tevez has been the talisman as well as the binding glue for this emerging Manchester City team. He's scored goals and created chances for others and is only one of two strikers to find the net more than 20 times. The Argentine would be a huge loss if he leaves Eastlands but I also think that the Premier League as a whole would miss him. Let's hope he stays.
Best Manager
Sir Alex Ferguson's 12th Premier League title represents a phenomenal achievement and, at 69, the Manchester United boss remains as sharp and wily as ever. I've also been impressed by Roberto Mancini across town at Manchester City. He's coped very well with the challenge of managing a complex set of personalities and winning the FA Cup and finishing third represents great progress for the Blues. My manager of the year? It's a joint Manchester triumph.
Best Match
I'm going to stray outside of the Premier League for this one. I really loved the Champions League group match between Tottenham and Inter at White Hart Lane, a splendid occasion and a reminder of the dizzying heights this wonderful game of ours can reach. Gareth Bale was sensational that night and, for 90 minutes at least, it seemed like anything was possible for Harry Redknapp's side.
Best Signing
I said at the start of the season that I had high hopes for Manchester United signing Javier Hernandez and he certainly hasn't let me down. With a phenomenal 20 goals in his first season, Hernandez represents an absolute bargain for the Red Devils, who signed the Mexican for £7 million last summer. He's been a revelation alongside Wayne Rooney and brings out the best in the England striker. The man they call little pea might well play a big part in next weekend's Champions League Final.
Unsung Hero
I might get a bit of stick for this one but I've been very impressed by Nigel de Jong this season. The Dutchman returned from South Africa under a cloud of deserved criticism for his performance in the World Cup Final. In a squad of stellar international talents, de Jong has been sensational in midfield. There is no doubt that Manchester City are a far superior team when he is in the side.
Andy Gray is now on Twitter so follow him for his exclusive tips and his take on the biggest stories in football each week.
Published: 31 May 2011
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