10 unsung players from the 2015/16 Premier League season

Daley Blind Shinji Okazaki
Daley Blind and Shinji Okazaki in a tussle

3) Shinji Okazaki (Leicester City)

Shinji Okazaki
Shinji Okazaki has been a revelation this season

Shinji Okazaki has become a favourite for Leicester City fans. He has not scored too many goals for Leicester but whenever he did score, they all had importance. The Japanese forward played a key role in the fairy-tale ending for Leicester.

The Japanese star is not the tallest of players but he more than makes up for it with his hard work both on and off the ball, which adds to his general game. He is modest, understated and content with himself.

Okazaki managed 1.3 shots per game, only bettered by Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez, who had 3.2 and 2.3 shots respectively. For a non-defender, he also managed 1 tackle per game, only bettered by Mahrez and Andy King with 1.4 and 1.1 tackles respectively.

The ex-Mainz man does not demand much and he is quick to pick up instructions, which is a manager’s delight. Consistent performances over the season have made him the fan favourite that he is, and Leicester City fans have much to look for in the next season.

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