The names of big stars are thrown around in discussions when talking about who the pass-masters of the Premier League are. But are the big names really the best statistically? And if so, who stands out the most? We look at the top ten of 2013/14.
10. Ramires- Chelsea
With 639 total passes, Ramires continues to be heavily involved in Chelsea’s waves of attack. With an impressive 86% accuracy, and with most of these going forward, it comes as no surprise that he remains a vital part of new manager Mourihno’s plans. Although recently it’s been a battle to stamp your mark on the Chelsea side when it comes to the attacking midfielders, statistically, Ramires is the one who shines when it comes to passing. He has also contributed with 3 through balls this season, more than anyone outside the top 4 of this countdown.
9. John Terry – Chelsea
Not necessarily one of the big names when it comes to controlling the play with his passes, but Ramires’ Chelsea counterpart comes next as the captain has notched up 650 passes so far this season. Narrowly missing out on the highest accuracy with 91.69%, the cool and composed defender has proven that he still has it, and forms the much needed experience that The Blues are looking for. This is looking increasingly apparent with all the new faces coming in throughout the Summer.
8. Michael Dawson- Spurs
Tottenham’s Michael Dawson comes next in the countdown. Like Ramires and Terry, 39.64% of his passes were all played forward; and does sound encouraging considering the fact that Spurs’ play this season has been deemed “boring”. Does the passing and possession focus by managers still bring a dull and boring demeanour to the game? After Barcelona’s European domination in recent times, some would say that it’s the framework for success, but with fans still paying their money, are they expecting to see exciting and risk-taking football at a weekend?
7. Steven N’Zonzi – Stoke City
The Stoke midfielder has shown his influence on the Stoke City side this season. Statistically, he is most heavily involved when it comes to passing. Out of 669 passes, 88% were accurate, and he has played 2 key through balls. He will be hoping that some of his City counterparts will be able to contribute to his impressive involvement, as they currently lie 17th in the table, just outside of the relegation zone.
6. Chico Flores – Swansea
Although a key defender, Chico has proven to be as cool and composed as the midfielders in front of him. Statistically, he has been able to keep the flow going in this Swansea team. He has the highest percentage of passes going forward, a highly impressive 41%, and he’s proved that most moves can  actually start from the back. And with 688 total passes, 88% accuracy, the Swansea Spaniard has made a good start to the new campaign in terms of passing.
5. Kyle Walker – Spurs
The second Spurs man to make an appearance in our passing countdown is England International Kyle Walker. The defender has notched up 696 passes so far this term, with 85% being accurate. With most of his passes being to the left, his contribution in the wide areas for Tottenham is evident, and as he continues to impress for England, 2013/14 could turn out to be a good season for the 23 year-old.
4. Steven Gerrard – Liverpool
Although some would say he is hitting the twilight stage of his career, Steven Gerrard may not be bombing forward into goal-scoring positions as frequently as he once did, but he is certainly still controlling the midfield. He has played 753 passes so far this season, with 87% accuracy. He also continues to provide for the SAS partnership, playing a total of 9 through balls to the forwards.
3. Michael Carrick – Manchester United
The United midfield maestro is one of the big names you would expect to be at the top of this passing countdown. Being renowned for the way he controls in the centre, he has been no different this season. Notching up a total of 770 passes this season, with only 9% of them being played backwards, shows the will to power forward in the United side is still there, even if they haven’t had the best of starts under David Moyes. He will be a loss to the Champions as he recovers from injury.
2. Aaron Ramsey – Arsenal
Arguably the player of the season so far, Aaron Ramsey has been the man of the moment in the league leading Arsenal side. This,evidently, is proven by his passing stats. Â Having played a total of 800 passes so far this season, he has also maintained his creative flair, playing through a total of 11 through balls. His goals and assists record this season can speak for themselves, but being involved so heavily statistically, in the Arsenal side, has proven what a major factor he has been in where they lie at the moment.
1. Yaya Toure – Manchester City
With a total passes of 909 passes and an astonishing 92% passing accuracy, Yaya Toure makes it in at number 1. With the percentages of his passes balanced from being played forward, left and right, the stats back up why Toure is such monster in midfield, and regarded as one of the best players around for the last few years. Playing a total of 9 through balls to the attack so far this season, it’s no surprise that he has claimed himself top spot, although it won’t come as a surprise for many, as he’s one of the most vital players that City will need to use in their title challenge.
