3John Arne RiiseDefender

A fans’ favourite wherever he has played, John Arne Riise certainly underlined his terrace status during his first season at the Cottage following a number of spirited performances.

Regarded as one of Europe’s most respected left-backs, his capture last summer represented quite a coup for the Club and the Norwegian international didn’t disappoint. A Champions League winner with Liverpool and a player with plenty of international experience, Riise has been a consistent performer at the top for more than a decade.

Renowned for his unrivalled stamina and powerful shooting, he gave his all during the 2011/12 campaign – impressing both as an accomplished defender and as a marauding full-back. Riise offers a fine delivery from the left flank too, whilst his threat from set-pieces will provide his team with further chances throughout the 2012/13 campaign.

Having come close to joining Fulham when the Club was first promoted to the Premier League in 2001, there is no doubting Riise’s importance to the Whites’ immediate future.