Alternative Premier League team of the season so far - including Newcastle United, Fulham and Liverpool stars

The Premier League is now on a break until Boxing Day as the eyes of the world turn towards the World Cup Finals in Qatar.

There will be match action in England with League One, League Two and non-league clubs still facing a hectic period over the next seven weeks - but those in the Premier League that are not competing in Qatar will watch the tournament from afar.

The pause in the season does allow us to reflect on what has gone on during the first three months of a unique season when the likes of Erling Haaland, Martin Odegaard and Miguel Almiron have all hit the headlines with some fine performances for their respective clubs. But what of those that may have gone under the radar during the campaign? 3AddedMinutes selects our ‘alternative’ Premier League team of the season so far.

Goalkeeper - Vicente Guaita

The Spanish stopper has produced some eye-catching displays during his time at Selhurst Park and continues to be a key part of Patrick Vieira’s side. Although Palace have suffered with inconsistency during the season, Guaita has kept three clean sheets and has conceded fewer goals than European contenders Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton and Hove Albion.

Right-back - Diogo Dalot (Manchester United)

Dalot has now made Manchester United’s right-back position his own after an impressive start to the season. The Portuguese star has gained the trust of new manager Erik ten Hag and has rewarded the form Ajax boss with a consistent level of performance throughout the first part of the season.

Centre-back - Joachim Andersen (Crystal Palace)

A monster at the back for Palace and his physical battles with several strikers have caught the eye over the last three months. Andersen has been a key player at the heart of an Eagles defence that have conceded just 18 goals in their opening 14 games of the campaign.

Centre-back - Eric Dier (Tottenham Hotspur)

There have been some doubts over Dier after he fell out of favour with England but he has moved on and regained his place in Gareth Southgate’s World Cup squad with some fine performances for Spurs. There have been the odd error or two here and there, but Dier is starting to regain his form and confidence.

Left-back - Dan Burn (Newcastle United)

Newcastle United have not always had the most solid of defences in recent years but that has all changed under Eddie Howe and the addition of Burn has been integral to their improvement. Whether at centre-back or left-back, the Blyth-born defender has been outstanding during the first half of the season and should have been in contention for a place in the England World Cup squad.

Midfield - Joao Palhinha (Fulham)

Given the level of interest in Palhinha from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, there was some surprise when it was Fulham that landed the hardworking midfielder in the summer. The Cottagers have reaped the rewards of Palhinha’s presence in midfield and he really caught the eye with a fine display in their recent defeat against Manchester United.

Midfield - Joelinton (Newcastle United)

The striker that wasn’t a striker is now a midfielder that just does not stop running. Joelinton’s redemption story on Tyneside has been remarkable and he can now claim to be one of the first names on Eddie Howe’s team-sheet. Another Magpies star that can count himself unlucky not to be going to the World Cup Finals.

Midfield - Alexis Mac Allister (Brighton and Hove Albion)

The Seagulls star has been in stunning form as his side challenge for a place in Europe. With five goals in 15 games, the classy midfielder has been a key figure for Graham Potter and Roberto de Zerbi and he will hope to continue his fine form at the World Cup with Argentina.

Forward - Aleksandar Mitrovic (Fulham)

It’s probably safe to suggest Mitrovic has silenced some doubters this season. The Serbian international has been a regular goalscorer in the Cottagers spells in the Championship but there have been doubts over his ability at Premier League level. Nine goals in 12 appearances have gone some way to proving he is a real threat at the top level of English football.

Forward - Leandro Trossard (Brighton and Hove Albion)

There should be no surprise in seeing Trossard linked with several clubs challenging for European places. The Belgian star has been in stunning form to help Brighton force their way into the battle for a top six place and his hat-trick at Anfield will live long in the memory. Keeping him within the Seagulls squad could be the difference between securing a European spot this season.

Forward - Rodrigo (Leeds United)

It has been a season plagued with inconsistency for Leeds United as remarkable wins against Liverpool and Chelsea sit alongside some dire performances and results. But Spanish international Rodrigo has been a real highlight after scoring nine goals in 13 Premier League appearances to give the Elland Road faithful something to shout about.