Legendary former football manager Harry Redknapp has picked his team of the year for the Premier League 2022-23 season and it includes surprise inclusions across the board.
From players at Aston Villa and Newcastle United to others at Brighton & Hove Albion and West Ham United, the 76-year-old has made his selections with one key condition.
Challenged by BetVictor.com to choose just one player per club, Redknapp has ended up with men from the four teams mentioned as well as seven others, including Arsenal and Manchester City.
Having coached nine different sides throughout his 34-year managerial career, Redknapp certainly has the expertise to make well-judged calls in this case – but some may still raise a few eyebrows.
With that in mind, here are the 11 players Redknapp went with, as well as explanations for each and his choice for manager of the year.
1. GK: Emiliano Martinez
Redknapp’s explanation: “First up, Emi Martinez. Martinez has had a very good season for club and country and has found himself in my team of the week many times. Villa have had a lot of standout players, but Martinez was the key for me. His distribution, his shot-stopping and his presence are all top-class and he plays with a real swagger to his game. There’s not many better in the league or anywhere around Europe.”
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Redknapp’s explanation: “Newcastle have had such a brilliant season, I’m picking their skipper at right-back, Kieran Trippier. Kieran’s been the best right-back in the league this season, what a signing he’s been for the club. He’s so experienced and has seen it all in his career. Not many have created more chances than him, he’s got so much quality crossing the ball from open play and set pieces.”
3. CB: Marc Guehi
Redknapp’s explanation: “My first centre half will be Marc Guehi. It’s been another great season at Palace for Marc, particularly since Roy Hodgson came back to the club. This lad has everything you’d want in a young defender, and I still think there’s plenty of improvement to come. You forget his age, he’s still only 22, there’s plenty of time for him to become a mainstay in the England squad.”
4. CB: Ben Mee
Redknapp’s explanation: “It may not have been a flashy signing, but Ben Mee was one of the signings of the season. He’s so experienced and has been top-class for Brentford in what’s been such a great year for Thomas Frank’s side. Ben is a proper defender and has defensive instincts that you can’t teach. His positioning and sense of danger in the box is superb.”