Ryad Boudebouz     21     Midfielder     Sochaux

Algerian international Boudebouz could have played for France but, despite having turned out at youth and under 21 level for Les Bleus, preferred to take his chances with his parents homeland. 

Possessing a wide selection of tricks and a right foot that we are more than happy to label as delicious, Boudebouz is capable of the outrageous.  Working in tandem with marvellous Marvin Martin in an exciting Sochaux side, this well rounded attacking midfielder spooked many a Ligue 1 defence in 2010-11 with his ability to shoot from range and perform slalom like runs into enemy territory. 

Utilised primarily in a central position, Boudebouz has started 2011-12 exactly where he left off last season and is well on track to emerge as one of Ligue 1’s leading players.  Strongly linked with Arsenal and Liverpool in the summer, Boudebouz is, form permitting, unlikely to be short of potential suitors in 2012 and the challenge for Sochaux will be to hold on to one of their best players.

"Under the shadow of Marvin Martin at Sochaux.  Technically gifted with both feet. Very dangerous at set-pieces and hits a mean ball" - Andrew Gibney (French Football Weekly)

"Eight goals and seven assists as Sochaux stunned Ligue 1 by finishing fifth. Has become one of league's most dangerous attacking players." - Tom Williams (Journalist)

"A fantastic season for the Algerian and his Sochaux teammates. Looked exciting going forward and a lot is expected of him again this year after opting to stay in France." - Jonathan Johnson (French Football Weekly)

C+      Good, now do it again, but better.