Forget Messi and Ronaldo, it's Premier League defender Baines who creates more chances than anyone in Europe



The goal getters make the headlines but where would the strikers be without the supply line?



The Barclays Premier League may not be the most technically proficient division in Europe, but when it comes to goalmouth action, La Liga, Serie A and the Bundesliga cannot hold a candle to our top-flight football.



Of the top 10 opportunity forgers in Europe, four ply their trade on these shores with Everton's Leighton Baines sitting proudly top of the chance charts with a staggering 97 goalscoring opportunities created.

Case for the defence: But Leighton Baines has created more chances than any other player across Europe

Silva service: The Manchester City forward has created 89 goalscoring opportunities for his side this season

But perhaps even more remarkable is the record of Liverpool's Luis Suarez. The stats would certainly seem to enhance the Uruguayan's claims to being crowned player of the year.



Not only has Suarez banged in 22 goals in the league, he has also provided a stunning 85 scoring chances for his Anfield team-mates. Indeed, had Liverpool another player who knew where the net was then surely they would be top four contenders this season given Steven Gerrard has carved out 82 occasions on goals for his side.

Kop idols: Luis Suarez and Steven Gerrard both feature on the list with 167 chances created between them



Centre of attention: Santi Cazorla is the fifth Premier League star to feature on the list

And if Roberto Mancini is wondering why Manchester City will not be retaining their title then he might like to start with his side's conversion rate.

David Silva has been doing the business, laying on 89 opportunities for the strike force. But City have been out-scored by Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool this season meaning Mancini's men are only playing for pride at Old Trafford tonight.



PLAYER TEAM CHANCES CREATED (including assists) LEIGHTON BAINES EVERTON 97 MATHIEU VALBUENA MARSEILLE 93 DAVID SILVA MANCHESTER CITY 89 LUIS SUAREZ LIVERPOOL 85 STEVEN GERRARD LIVERPOOL 82 FRANCESCO TOTTI ROMA 81 JEFFERSON FARFAN SCHALKE

80 ANDREA PIRLO JUVENTUS 80 MAREK HAMSIK NAPOLI 80 MESUT OZIL REAL MADRID 78 SANTI CAZORLA ARSENAL 76 MAX KRUSE FREIBURG 75



