Premier League’s best performing under-21s – Tottenham and Everton stars take top spots

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Ross Barkley, Eric Dier and Raheem Sterling make up the top three.

Data from the EA Sports Player Performance Index has identified Ross Barkley, Eric Dier and Raheem Sterling as the top three performing under-21 players in the Premier League.

The Everton man has been in fine form and has been a key factor in the Toffees’ solid start to the season. Roberto Martinez’s men endured a difficult campaign last year but have been buoyed by the retention of James McCarthy and John Stones and look to be returning to a level of performance their talented squad warrants.

Dier, on the other hand, has been a revelation in his new-found defensive midfield role. The 21-year old arrived as a little-known England youth international from Sporting Lisbon last summer, but quickly proved his worth to Mauricio Pochettino’s team, with consistent accomplished displays at right-back and central defence.

Tottenham Hotspur failed to acquire a defensive midfielder over the summer but Dier’s conversion has felt like a new signing and he is now established as one of the first names on teamsheet at White Hart Lane.

Raheem Sterling’s controversial big-money move from Liverpool to Manchester City was a difficult period for the England international, but he has come out the other end and is now starting to deliver for Manuel Pellegrini’s side.

The 20-year-old has added a fresh drive and energy to an ageing City team and while not yet hitting the heights he managed for Liverpool, he is slowly settling into his role as the most expensive English player in history.

Data courtesy of the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index, the Official Player Rating Index of the Barclays Premier League