Premier League 2014: club-by-club review

The arrival of Louis van Gaal, the return of Cesc Fabregas and the departure of David Moyes. Luis Suarez as hero (and villain) of the year, and Tony Pulis the tactical genius. The emergence of Diafra Sakho and the resurgence of Jose Mourinho. And who can forget that Steven Gerrard slip?

2014 was a thrilling year in the Premier League, featuring one of the most dramatic title races of recent years, the rise of some unlikely contenders in the race for Champions League places and relegation battles that, at times, seemed to involve half the league. Manchester City were able to see off the challenge of a revitalised Liverpool in the first half of the year to claim their second title in three seasons, while Chelsea are in control this time around.

The plotlines for next year are already tantalising, with Manchester United seem to be (finally) coming good under new manager Van Gaal and surprise packages such as Southampton and West Ham showing no signs of going away. Yet, for now, it is time to reflect on the year that has gone and assess each member of the Premier League elite.

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