XI SERIES: PUMA

With so few players wearing Puma football boots in the Premier League, we were never going to be able to build a team for each style that Puma have released. We have therefore gone with an ‘All-Star’ Puma XI. The XI features King XL, V1.10 and the new PowerCat.

So who gets into The Right Winger’s dream Puma XI?

Strikers:
Nikolas Anelka’s career seemed to be slowly fading away as he fought for pride within a decent Bolton side before Chelsea came knocking. His partnership with Drogba has grown into one of the most deadly in the Premier League.
Peter Crouch has his fans and his haters. His lanky style is not everyone’s cup of tea. There is no doubting his ability however – especially when he has an England shirt on his back. We just wish he would bring back the robot!

Midfielders:
Michael Carrick is one of the most noticeable Puma wearers. A fixture in Manchester United’s midfield, Carrick has the ability to thread the ball through the smallest gap. A true pass-master who chips in with the odd goal.
Tomas Rosicky recently joined the Puma group and what a player he is. His best is still hidden below a lack of match fitness after being out for a lengthy period. His attacking brilliance was sorely missed at Arsenal.
Emmanuel Eboue epitomises who Puma is: strong, fast, determined, skillful and African. Africa is Puma’s second home and the Ivory Coast star feels right at home in his v1.10 boots. Comfortable both out-wide at right wing or right back.
Diniyar Bilyaletdinov. Don’t ask us to pronounce that but the young Russian is certainly making a name for himself on the Merseyside. A cracking goal against Manchester United showed just how seriously you should take his left foot.

Defenders:
Vedran Corluka has seldom missed a game for Spurs. The Croatian right back is solid on both attack and defense. Missing out on the World Cup will be a blow for us as we lose out on watching him and his fellow countrymen on African soil.
Nemanja Vidic is a powerhouse. Rumours are rife that he will be on his way come the summer. Whatever happens, Manchester United owe the big Serb a debt of thanks.
John Mensah hasn’t been a regular for Sunderland since his arrival on loan from Olympique Lyonnais. A calf injury and the African Cup of Nations have limited his chances for the Black Cats. When he is available his strength is a great asset for both Sunderland and Ghana’s defense.
Benoit Assou-Ekotto had to see off stiff competition from Gareth Bale for Spur’s left back position. He soon made it his own however and only the African Cup of Nations and an injury have kept him out of the side. He is smooth, calm and a great crosser.

Goal Keeper:
Shay Givan is probably the best piece of business Manchester City did. With so many high-profile players being brought in, Given was slightly less glamorous. The Irish keeper has consistently been one of the best in the Premier League however. He is a natural shot-stopper.

Who do you think should be part of Puma’s XI?