Troy Deeney snubbed Ballon d'Or favourite Ousmane Dembele and Real Madrid stars Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe when asked which five footballers he enjoyed watching the most. Deeney has never been one to mince his words — whether as a player, coach or pundit — occasionally coming out with hot takes that leave people speechless.
In this instance, though, no one could argue with the former hardman striker as he was asked to share his opinion on who he enjoys watching the most from the current crop of talent. With three Premier League stars included, there are still some head-scratching decisions.
Deeney names Five Players He Most Enjoys Watching
Speaking to GOAL, Deeney started off with number five and selected Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice. While the England international may not necessarily play in the most exciting position on the pitch, the ball-winner is still a progressive player who has shown just how good he is technically in recent months, as he has chipped in with some important goals. He also has an infectious personality which aids his case.
In fourth sat Raphinha, who has evolved into one of the best wingers in the world. Matching Cristiano Ronaldo's record for most goal contributions in a single Champions League season, the Brazilian has always been flashy and entertaining, as most Brazilian forwards are, but he has added end product to his game that has made him an even greater threat.
In third is perhaps the most surprising inclusion in Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo, who is a bit of a throwback as a more direct winger akin to the likes of a young Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and Gareth Bale. In a game where systems can stifle players, the Cherries star manages to buck the trend.
In second is perhaps the biggest maverick left in the game in Cole Palmer. Chelsea's new number 10 seems to do everything with ease, which only adds to his allure, but the fact he can pop up and produce moments of magic from seemingly anywhere makes him unlike many others in the modern game.
Finally, at number one, Deeney could not resist the exuberance and raw talent that is Lamine Yamal, who he selects in first. The 18-year-old has laid down a marker as football’s next global superstar, and is perhaps even about to overtake Vinicius and Mbappe while they are still in their prime. That's how much of an impact the teenage Spaniard has had since bursting onto the scene.