SEVEN CAPITAL STARS WITH IT ALL TO PROVE IN NEW TOP-FLIGHT SEASON

After making a flying start at Spurs, a serious ankle injury, followed by a disappointing second half of last season, saw Maddison briefly dropped by Ange Postecoglou and then miss out on a place in the England squad for Euro 2024.

- Dan Kilpatrick, Simon Collings and Nick Purewal

JAMES MADDISON (Tottenham)

He has looked sharp pre-season, but now faces fresh competition for a place from Swedish teenager Lucas Bergvall. At 27, Maddison should be in his prime, but faces a battle to ensure he is a key player for club and country.

TOP REECE JAMES (Chelsea)

Less than two years ago, James was being targeted by Real Madrid after We established himself as one of the most dynamic right-backs in the world. But a string of injury problems derailed his career and he made only 11 appearances for Chelsea last season. James is suspended for the first three Premier League games and has also suffered another hamstring setback in pre-season. When he does return, he faces a fight with Malo Gusto for his place. And another injury-hit season could raise doubts over his future.

EMILE SMITH ROWE (Fulham)