Premier League Power Rankings: David Silva a new entry, Petr Cech influence slips, Jermain Defoe a major mover

GAME WEEK TWO: Who are the 17 most important players heading into the next round of Premier League fixtures in which Chelsea play Manchester City?

Tom Sheen
Wednesday 12 August 2015 12:41 EDT
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This weekend, Chelsea take on Manchester City in a fixture that could prove pivotal to where the title ends up - even at this early stage.

We also have a Friday night match, with Manchester United heading to Aston Villa, whilst Arsenal will be looking to bounce back from their shock defeat to West Ham during their trip to Selhurst Park to play Crystal Palace.

But which players hold the power ahead of Game Week 2?

We all know who the best players are but defining those with the power to shape events in the Premier League is not so simple - so we've created The Independent's Premier League Power Rankings.

Ahead of every round of fixtures in the top-flight our team of experts get together to define the 17 players who hold the power.

Rather than being based on who the best or most talented footballers are, it's defined by current form, league position, next fixture and any other factors which could influence events.

Players move up and down the rankings, battling to be number one. Some will drop out and new entries will emerge. You might not agree (in which case let us know why) - but that's half the fun.

Following the opening round of fixtures, in which there were some surprise results, the 17 have shifted and there are new entries on the board.

These are the 17 most important players in the Premier League right now...

Click HERE to see last week's Power Rankings.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments box below.

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