In Focus: Premier League stars of the season so far

The Premier League has enjoyed an explosive season so far with Arsenal stunning their detractors to lead the way going into the World Cup break.

A number of players have shone in 2022-23, including some new arrivals and rising stars, as well as the usual big names. 

As the season grinds to a halt for the World Cup, LiveScore picks out five Premier League players that have stood out from the rest.

Erling Haaland

There do not seem to be enough superlatives to describe Erling Haaland. 

The striker has scored 18 goals in just 13 league appearances, making him the runaway favourite to win the Golden Boot — sitting a whopping six clear of his nearest challenger Harry Kane. 

The Manchester City forward’s towering figure and phenomenal speed have seen him terrorise some of the league's best defenders and break numerous records since his arrival in England. 

An underrated aspect of his game is his ability to set team-mates up, with the Norwegian creating more big chances than any other Premier League striker (seven). 

His addition to an already dominant Pep Guardiola side has been breathtaking to watch this campaign.

Kieran Trippier

Kieran Trippier has been in outstanding form for flying third-placed Newcastle. 

No Premier League defender has created more chances than the No2 (34) — and his efforts have culminated in three assists for the Magpies so far this term. 

He also leads the league in crosses attempted (130) and completed (53) as he looks to pick out the likes of Chris Wood, Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak. 

Trippier has also displayed his defensive acumen, making a commendable 29 tackles and 20 interceptions. 

His contributions have helped Newcastle record the joint-best defensive record in the division (level with Arsenal) and Eddie Howe's side are well placed for European football next season.

William Saliba

With Arsenal sitting at the top of the table, a number of their players could have been selected — but William Saliba has been one of the best. 

After spending three years on loan in Ligue 1, Saliba slotted straight into the starting line-up, shifting the versatile Ben White to right-back. 

Since his inclusion, he has shown remarkable composure in possession, immense recovery pace and excellent defensive awareness. 

Following a dominant win against Bournemouth in which Saliba scored, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta spoke of the defender’s quality. 

He said: "That [goal] is individual talent and a moment of quality that [Saliba] showed today, but I am really pleased with his performance. 

"What he is doing at 21 years old is rare. He remains really humble. He wants to learn, he wants to train every day, and he is really demanding of himself and he is giving a lot to the team. 

"It is very important to get the clean sheet as well. Everybody is scoring goals and that's good."

James Maddison

Leicester endured a troubling start to the season, having to wait nine weeks for their first Premier League victory. 

However, James Maddison has helped the Foxes play their way into form under Brendan Rodgers and they have won four of their last five games. 

The attacking midfielder has driven his side forward with his clinical finishing and incisive passing — which has seen him rack up seven goals and four assists. 

Maddison’s impressive performances convinced Gareth Southgate to include him in England’s World Cup squad and he will hope to feature after getting over his knee injury.

Harry Kane

Haaland's relentless scoring has somewhat pushed Kane out of the spotlight — but the Tottenham marksman is still at the top of his game. 

Netting 12 goals — including five headed efforts and two penalties — the England captain has continued to display ruthless finishing. 

Heung-Min Son's struggles and the absence of Dejan Kulusevski have also increased his creative burden for Spurs. 

But he has taken that responsibility in his stride, with no striker creating more opportunities for their team-mates than his 28.