Premier League Team of the Season 2019/20 - For Players Over 30
Well, we thought we'd never get here but here we are. The Premier League is drawing to a close. The trophy has been handed out, last place has been decided but there's still a little left to play for on the final day.
This season has seen many an emerging young player make their mark in style but the category that continues to quietly deliver is that of the over 30's.
So, let's give the golden oldies the credit they deserve by naming our over 30's Premier League XI of the season.
1. Kasper Schmeichel (GK)
Easy to bypass the fact that Peter's son is now in his 15th year as a professional and he hasn't showed any signs of slowing down.
His performances between the sticks for the Foxes have been crucial in propelling them into European contention. The 33-year-old has kept 13 clean sheets this season, second only to Nick Pope and Ederson.
2. Cesar Azpilicueta (RB)
Another season, another solid and reliable display from Chelsea's skipper.
He may have only turned 30 this season, but this is his eighth year with the Blues and his experience has been pivotal to keeping Frank Lampard's side in the top four.
He may not have the speed and agility he once had, but his tactical awareness and versatility is invaluable.
3. Chris Basham (CB)
A key cog in Sheffield United's incredible campaign back in the Premier League, 32-year-old Chris Basham had only played two top flight games (for Blackpool in 2010) prior to this season.
His partnership with John Egan and Jack O'Connell at the back for the Blades, not to mention their notorious overlapping runs, has taken the top division by storm.
4. Jonny Evans (CB)
The former Manchester United graduate has really only gained recognition as one of the division's best centre backs in the last two or three years. So often a squad player at Old Trafford under Sir Alex, Evans finally got his full Premier League chance at West Brom and he hasn't looked back.
His partnership with Caglar Soyuncu for Leicester this season has been one of the most successful in the league
5. Enda Stevens (LB)
Although he had a taste of the Premier League as a youngster with Aston Villa, Republic of Ireland full-back Stevens was in League Two three seasons ago with Portsmouth.
The 30-year-old has played every Premier League match this season; with his strength down the left side vital to the Blades' success.
6. Willian (RW)
The Brazilian winger could well be departing Chelsea next month with no new deal agreed. It would be a shame but if it is the end, the 31-year-old has gone out on a high with his best season in years.
The extra responsibility bestowed to him this year, after the departure of Eden Hazard, seems to have paid dividends and his experience and dead-ball skills have dug his side out of many a hole.
7. Jordan Henderson (CM)
Title-winning captain Henderson only turned 30 in June so just about scrapes in but you simply cannot leave him off this list. Finally a Premier League winner in his ninth season at Anfield, Henderson has had an incredible year.
Liverpool would not be where they are without the former Sunderland man and Jurgen Klopp will want him around for as long as possible as they build for a new era of success on Merseyside.
8. Joao Moutinho (CM)
Portuguese veteran Moutinho will turn 34 in September but is still delivering delicious assists, set plays and long passes with ease.
The classy playmaker has featured in all of Wolves' league matches this season. Whether he can sustain such a high level for another year remains to be seen but just having him around will surely benefit the club as they push for Europe.
9. David Silva (LW)
The 'Manchester Magician' will depart the Etihad this summer and despite fans and players clamouring for him to stay for one more year, it seems the Spaniard's mind is made up.
The 34-year-old has had another excellent season, despite playing fewer minutes, and his experience has been vital after the departure of Vincent Kompany last summer.
A true Premier League great, he will be sorely missed.
10. Jamie Vardy (ST)
The former medical splint manufacturer has come a long way but even he may be shocked at the level of success so late in his career.
At 33, Vardy is looking set for the Golden Boot award (barring a Danny Ings hat-trick) and whether or not Leicester achieve Champions League, it's been another excellent season for the speedy forward.
Who says strikers don't get better with age?
11. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Aubameyang has had another impressive goalscoring season despite Arsenal's mixed bag, results wise. The arrival of Mikel Arteta seems to have re-ignited his desire and he could now remain at the Emirates, even after all the departure rumours.
The 31-year-old is still chasing that elusive European trophy that he so craves and it remains to be seen whether he thinks that is achievable with the Gunners. Watch this space.