Manchester City's David Silva, Chelsea's Frank Lampard, Liverpool's Steven Gerrard, Swansea's Joe Allen and Norwich's Anthony Pilkington are all great at what they do. They make late runs into the box, they get themselves on the scoresheet and create goalscoring opportunities out of nothing. But who is the best attacking midfielder in the Premier League? David Silva The Manchester City midfielder is an early contender for Footballer of The Year as his marvellous vision has set up many goals for Roberto Manciniâs side. This was perfectly illustrated by his tremendous volleyed pass freed Eden Dzenko for Cityâs sixth goal at Old Trafford. It was evident again in the victory over Wigan after a lightening stepover and perfect through ball played in Sergio Aguero to score. Silva also poses a goal threat himself. He recently scored as Spain overcame Scotland in a friendly. During the game the midfielder drifted along the front line, as Scotland struggled to contain the schemer. Silva is also a good dribbler, a real advantage in a crowded penalty area. I would though suggest that his finishing needs to be improved, particularly at club level. But David Silvaâs all round game more then compensates for this weakness. The fact that he is a regular starter for the World champions speaks volumes. Frank Lampard Like the British climate, Frank Lampard has been enjoying an Indian Summer. The Chelsea midfielder was written off in some quarters, but Lamps has certainly answered his critics in emphatic fashion. A September hat-trick against Bolton showed Lampard at his best. A trademark long shot saw him silence the Reebok crowd. His characteristic runs into the box saw him complete his treble, the third coming after exchanging passes with Didier Drogba. The big Ivorian has also benefited from Lampardâs excellent vision. A fair percentage of the big strikers goals have been engineered by Frankâs passes. Lampard has also resurrected his career and recently captained England to victory over Spain. Once again the Chelsea man rolled back the years. In a drab first half the Londoner was the only player prepared to shoot at goal. An impressive all round game was crowned when Lampard grabbed the winner. His reliability from the penalty spot may prove crucial at next summer's European Championship. There is certainly life in this particular old dog, but is he the best attacking midfielder in the Premier League? Steven Gerrard Liverpoolâs inspirational captain has had a frustrating start to the campaign. Injury has curtailed the Scouser's first team appearances, much to the relief of opposing defences. But it is just a matter of time before Stevie G returns to full form. The deadly combination of fierce shooting and surging runs will once again delight Anfield. An excellent user of the ball, the Reds strikers must be eagerly anticipating his return. It will be interesting to see what role he will have in the new look Reds. The addition of Charlie Adam means Liverpool have a player perfectly suited for playing the quarterback position. The ex-Blackpool man is renowned for his accurate long passing. Could this tempt Kenny Dalglish to push Gerrard further forward? Gerrard proved effective when playing as a support striker to Peter Crouch. Maybe he would prove equally proficient feeding off Andy Carrol. I guess the blinding form of Luis Suarez would persuade Dalglish to play his skipper back in the engine room. However, Wayne Rooneyâs suspension from the first three games of Euro 2012 may see Gerrard in a more advanced role for England. It is going to be an interesting few months for the Liverpool legend. Joe Allen The Young Welshman has adapted well to life in the top flight. He has already scored twice for Brendan Rodgers' side and won rave reviews from the football world. The midfielder is adept at getting into the box and finishing off moves. This was perfectly illustrated by his goal against Wolves. Allen perfectly timed his break into the box to add the decisive touch. His strong shot also helped account for Bolton. A drive from the edge of the box secured another three points at the Liberty. A neat passer of the ball, Joe Allen is definitely a star of the future, but is he the best in the top flight? Anthony Pilkington Another impressive newcomer to the top flight, the Norwich City midfielder has been a stand out performer for the Canaries. The former Huddersfield man has netted three times for the Carrow Road side so far this season. His goals have shown that he has a fine all round game. Pilkington headed in a free kick at Bolton to earn three vital points. Then his run into the box got Paul Lambertâs men off to a flying start against Swansea. For good measure Pilkington added a second as the East Anglicans ran out 3-1 winners. While a well executed free kick stunned Villa Park. It May have been even better, Pilkington spurned a guilt edged chance to give Norwich a shock lead at Old Trafford. He also missed an opportunity against Arsenal. But the fact that he is consistently getting into goalscoring positions must be grounds for encouragement. If the Lancastrian can convert a decent percentage of chances, Norwich City will remain a Premier League club next season. It also refreshing to see a player who plied his trade in the lower reaches making his name in the top flight. Of course that means there is no room for the influential Spurs ace Rafael Van der Vaart or former Arsenal and now Manchester City star Samir Nasri, but would you place either of them ahead of Steve's choices?
David Silva by a country mile, followed closely by Rambo & Allen, as for Gerrard & Lampard, their best years are behind them, though they'll be in the football hall of fame somewhere!............... please log in to view this image
