With a number of impressive signings this season, and a dip in form for some old stars, who would make a combined XI from the Scottish Premiership?
This season in Scotland the league has been a far more competitive affair compared to last, with six teams of genuine quality producing some fine displays against each other throughout the season.
Celtic have been the standout team as usual, however, Rangers have done magnificently to bridge the gap under Graeme Murty and even had the chance to potentially blow open the title race had they won at Ibrox two weeks ago, whilst Hibernian, Aberdeen, Kilmarnock and Hearts have all performed well.
But which players would make a combined starting XI out of the entire league? Here is a look at who we think would make the team in a 4-3-3 formation…
In goal, it is really between Wes Foderingham and Craig Gordon, and with Gordon having missed several months due to injury, the Rangers shot stopper gets the nod between the sticks. Foderingham has been a consistent performer for the Gers since his arrival in Glasgow, and his presence between the sticks has helped out a struggling Rangers defence on a fair number of occasions this term.
At left-back, Kieran Tierney can simply not be overlooked. The 20-year-old is arguably the brightest prospect in the league and, despite his young age, is also one of the players of highest quality. His tireless efforts down the left flank for Celtic week-in-week-out is admirable.
Similarly, on the right, the same can be said for Rangers’ James Tavernier, who has emerged as a potential new club captain for the Ibrox club. Tavernier has also chipped in with an impressive seven goals from defence, and is his club’s third top scorer this season.
In the heart of defence, Hearts’ Cristophe Berra has maintained a high level of performance all season, and has looked a real coup for the Jambos, with shouts for him to be player of the year from many fans. Partnered with Berra is Edinburgh rival Paul Hanlon of Hibernian. As the league’s newcomers this season, Hanlon has been right at the heart of Hibs’ rejuvenation with his commanding performances from centre-back. He and his defensive colleagues have provided the platform for the likes of John McGinn and co to produce arguably the best attacking football of any team in the league.
In the middle of the park, in terms of quality, Scott Brown and Olivier Ntcham pick themselves. The Scottish veteran has formed quite the partnership with the former Manchester City youth player, and taught the Rangers midfield a lesson as Celtic ran out 3-2 victors at Ibrox earlier this month.
The two midfield stars are what keep Celtic ticking over and must be a frightening prospect to face for any team. Alongside the pair, as a midfield trio, John McGinn gets the nod for his continued brilliance. It feels only a matter of time before McGinn earns a move to one of the Old Firm sides, and he has been rewarded once again with a Scotland call up.
James Forrest, many people’s pick for player of the season, picks himself on the right wing. Forrest has been his electric self for the entirety of the season, and has netted an impressive 16 goals as he looks to reach the 20 mark for the first time in his career.
Up front, the league’s top scorer Alfredo Morelos gets the nod purely down to his goal tally, although a team of the year striker should not be missing open goal chances such as his one against Celtic. Nevertheless, aged 21, the Colombian has bagged 17 goals so far this season in his first year in Scotland, a more than credible effort for any young striker.
Finally, to make up the XI, Daniel Candeias lines up on the opposite wing. The Portuguese has been one of the only positives of Pedro Caixinha’s reign, but remains a huge positive nonetheless. His dedication on the pitch has not gone unnoticed by the Rangers fans and with four goals and eight assists, this unselfish contribution to the team is massive.
Who would make your combined XI?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
