Andy Carroll (Newcastle); 21

Few jerseys carry the symbolism of the Newcastle United No 9 shirt, but it is a measure of coach Chris Hughton's confidence that he has handed the sacred garment to Carroll. The rugged, Gateshead-born striker finished the 2009-10 season as Newcastle's top scorer with 19 goals in all competitions and he may need to emulate the goalscoring exploits of his illustrious predecessors Alan Shearer and Jackie Milburn if the Magpies are to preserve their place among England's elite.