The unsung players ready to make an impact in the Premier League The big money signings will hog most of the headlines as the season comes into view. Will they light up the […]

The big money signings will hog most of the headlines as the season comes into view. Will they light up the Premier League or prove to be a complete waste of money?

However, lurking under the radar, a number of players are poised to become protagonists for their team this coming season.

We have picked seven who may do just that.

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James Ward-Prowse – Southampton

There is a sense that football is still waiting for Ward-Prowse to make his breakthrough and kick on. But then again he is still only 22, having made his Southampton debut at 16.

Last season was underwhelming, perhaps owing to Claude Puel’s propensity to shuffle the pack. Ward-Prowse made 43 appearances across four competitions in six positions, failing to put his stamp on proceedings.

What he offers: He combines a fantastic work ethic and attitude with strong technical skills. He is a fine passer, can strike the ball well and is a threat from set-pieces, albeit he has only assisted two league goals from such situations in two seasons. Why this could be his season: After captaining the England Under-21s at the European Championships in the summer, the midfielder comes into the season under new management. If he is afforded stability and asserts himself more readily he could become the fulcrum of Southampton’s midfield. Most likely to: be compared to David Beckham when he scores a free-kick.

Kieran Trippier – Tottenham Hotspur

In the last two seasons Trippier has had to play second fiddle to Kyle Walker at Spurs. His 41 appearances pale in comparison to Walker’s 74.

Yet every time he has been asked to step up he hasn’t let Mauricio Pochettino, the Spurs fans, his team-mates or himself down. When Walker was dropped, Trippier excelled in four of the last five leagues games.

This a very underrated assist from Kieran Trippier. pic.twitter.com/RofPJngU87 — Daniel. (@Danderweireld) July 16, 2017

What he offers: Trippier suits Pochettino’s ethos down to a tee. He is athletic and aggressive meaning, he can cover the whole right flank at a high intensity. Last season he provided 0.73 assists per 90 minutes he played for a league high of five assists for a defender. He fired across 4.8 crosses per 90 minutes with the 10th best accuracy in the league. Why this could be his season: Walker has moved on for a record fee for a defender, so the right-back slot has opened up for the 26-year-old to make his own. Many fans will be curious to see what he can deliver with an extended run. Most likely to: be setting up Harry Kane for another goal.

Ramadan Sobhi – Stoke City

The Egyptian may be the most exciting player in the league. Quite the statement for a player who made only eight league starts last season, having moved from Cairo-based giants El Ahly.

But in the second half of the season, after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations he excited the Britannia with his blend of physical, direct and skilful play.

What he offers: Chris Waddle talks about the sound he heard of of a collective clattering of seats as people took to their feet when he received the ball while playing for Sheffield Wednesday. There is something similar with Sobhi. Former team-mate Jonathan Walters nicknamed him ‘Ramadona’. Why this could be his season: He has had a season of adaptation to the league, a full pre-season with the squad, plus copious amounts of talent. Marko Arnautovic has been linked with a move away, meaning he could be handed greater responsibility. Most likely to: embarrass a whole defence with a bout of dribbling and trickery.

Luke Shaw – Manchester United

The left-back has not had an easy time of it since his £30million move to Old Trafford. He incurred a horrible injury, had his weight and fitness questioned by Louis van Gaal, plus similar remarks from Jose Mourinho, including possible attitude issues.

What he offers: At his best Shaw is an accomplished two-way full-back, with neither aspect, attacking or defensive, substantially superior than the other. Perhaps the best left-back in the country, on his day. With emphasis on those final three words. Why this could be his season: So far United have not targeted a left-back with midfield and a wide-player their priorities. There are three other first-team players who can play that position but none offer the balance of Shaw. If he has the support of his manager, watch him thrive. Most likely to: be the defender fantasy football players transfer into their team by October.

Tammy Abraham – Swansea City

Like a wild Pidgey in Pokemon, a Chelsea loanee. The striker enjoyed himself at Championship level netting 26 times for Bristol City, and Swansea is a logical next step on his loan journey away from Chelsea after impressing with the England Under-21s in the summer

What he offers: The 19-year-old is strong, tall and quick for his age. He has worked hard at his build-up play and back-to-goal work, plus he knows where the back of the net is. He could play up-front on his own or alongside Fernando Llorente. Why this could be his season: He is a strong character who has the right attitude to succeed. He could have moved to Newcastle United, but working under former Chelsea coach Paul Clement, he’s made the right choice in making the switch to Wales. Most likely to: form a Boyz II Men tribute act.

Danny Ward – Liverpool

The goalkeeper excelled on loan at Huddersfield Town last campaign, helping the Terriers to win promotion. Just as he had excelled for half the campaign the previous season at Aberdeen. His loan at the Scottish club was cut short by Jurgen Klopp, who wanted to monitor his progress personally.

What he offers: Everywhere he has been, praise has been gushing and sincere. Ward is a dominating presence at 6ft3in but also incredibly agile. He has a terrific spring and leap which makes him appear even bigger, as well as strong hands to keep the ball away from the goal and dangerous areas. Why this could be his season: Simply put, neither Simon Mignolet or Loris Karius have fully convinced. Most likely to: benefit from a goalkeeping gaffe and get his chance

Andreas Christensen – Chelsea

For the last two seasons the Danish defender has been forging quite the name for himself on loan from Chelsea in the Bundesliga. The 21-year-old has played 82 times for Borussia Mönchengladbach where he has grown and matured as a centre-back.