Top 5 Underrated Players in the Premier League season thus far

The English Premier League season has already completed its first half and the new year saw the commencement of the second half of the league. With Arsenal and Leicester City occupying the top two positions in the league, Vardy, Mahrez and Özil have stolen all the headlines and the performances of other players have been vastly overshadowed. Sometimes, a player is more than their stats; but sadly, these players are often overlooked.These are the top 5 most underrated players in the 2015/2016 Premier League midway through the campaign.  

#5 Aaron Cresswell

Aaron Cresswell has enjoyed some fine form this campaign

Full backs are, unfortunately, often not given the respect and gratitude they warrant. Their role in the squad is habitually underestimated. However, fullbacks are often vital to a team's success, contributing to both attacking and defensive plays. Fullbacks are often vital to a teams performances, like an anchor. 

In the absence of West Ham’s star Frenchman, Dmitri Payet, the Hammers endured an obvious struggle. Their creativity and fluidity in the attack was impeded, as the number of goals they scored gradually decreased. Times were dark for the Irons, but dark times always bring the best out of some players. One of these players has been the English left-back Aaron Cresswell.

In 19 appearances, Cresswell has come up with a goal and provided three assists. For a full back, not a bad return. But the twenty-six-year-old is more than just his stats, being the source of consistency and reliability amidst a somewhat shaky West Ham back four. You can always rely on Aaron to put in a good shift for his team, and his performances have begun to attract praise from the West Ham faithful.

Cresswell has been among one of the best left backs in the League, as Azpilicueta’s form has been dwindling. Many Hammers are inquiring as to why he hasn’t been called up to the international stage, and despite competition from Baines and Ryan Bertrand, he is definitely in contention for the spot. Cresswell’s performances at Upton Park have definitely impressed fans and neutrals alike, as his form seems to be only going upwards.