#2 Daley Blind
Daley Blind’s £14 million move from Ajax went under the radar as the club was signing much more expensive players all through the window. After a formidable effort at the 2014 World Cup, Daley Blind was brought to be a backup for Luke Shaw at left back and Michael Carrick in midfield.
However, Blind has defied all expectations. After a solid first season, he was told to play as a left-sided centre-back, and he hasn’t looked back since. He played nearly every match for the club as a centre back last season and his ball playing ability has received praise from all corners.
The Dutchman’s intelligence has been the reason for his smooth transition to a centre back. He reads situations better than anybody and outsmarts the attacker with ease more often that not.
Under Mourinho, his lack of pace and strength meant his position is under scrutiny. But there is no doubt that he will find a place somewhere on the pitch because of his versatility and footballing intelligence.
