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Football

11th May 2017

Rio Ferdinand leaves out Harry Kane and Alexis Sanchez as he names interesting team of the year

The lack of Manchester United players is understandable

Darragh Murphy

It’s that time of year again when pundits are reminded that it’s completely impossible to please everybody.

The Premier League season is winding down, with Chelsea looking destined to finish as champions and only one relegation place remaining.

It’s been an interesting season, as the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal flattered to deceive while Leicester’s title defence lacked any spark whatsoever.

Spurs put up an admirable fight and Pep Guardiola learned just how difficult life can be in the Premier League.

But, in terms of players, who stood out most over the past eight months?

Pundits have been busying themselves putting together their picks for Team of the Season and the latest comes courtesy of United legend Rio Ferdinand.

Speaking on his YouTube page, Ferdinand gave his take on the best XI of the Premier League this season and it is certain to divide opinion.

Ferdinand has selected Spurs’ stopper Hugo Lloris between the sticks and opted for three at the back, with Burnley’s Michael Keane accompanying the Chelsea double-act of David Luiz and Cesar Azpilicueta (or, as Ferdinand says, ‘Azkilipwea’)

In an unfamiliar role as right wing-back, Crystal Palace’s Wilfried Zaha gets the nod and Spurs’ Danny Rose plays on the opposite flank. Dele Alli and N’Golo Kante partner up in the centre of the park.

Ferdinand went for an attacking trio that’s comprised of Chelsea’s Eden Hazard, Liverpool’s Sadio Mane and Everton’s Romelu Lukaku, who remains Premier League top scorer.

The main complaints about Ferdinand’s selection will likely stem from the lack of Toby Alderweireld, Alexis Sanchez and Harry Kane but, hey, everybody is entitled to their opinion.

Ferdinand’s team looks like this.

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