Transfermarkt updates market values for every player in the top-flight, taking into account factors such as age, performances, future prospects, development potential and experience.
They say ‘the goal is to predict an expected value of a player in a free market’ rather than a transfer fee, so with that in mind, let’s take a look at who they rank as the most valuable player in each position of a 4-4-2 formation.
5. Left-back: Matthew Clarke (Linfield)
Matthew Clarke made his 350th Linfield appearance in January and helped the Blues win the BetMcLean Cup final against Coleraine. Transfermarkt value: €225,000 Photo: Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker
6. Right-midfield: Kirk Millar (Linfield)
According to Transfermarkt, David Healy has picked Kirk Millar more times (304) than any other player during his managerial reign at Windsor Park. He suffered an injury earlier this season but still played in 28 league games, scoring four times. Transfermarkt value: €250,000 Photo: Andrew McCarroll/ Pacemaker Press
7. Centre-midfield: Philip Lowry (Crusaders)
Crusaders midfield maestro Philip Lowry enjoyed the best season of his career in terms of goals, scoring 17 in the Premiership and also netted in the Irish Cup final. He was nominated for both Premiership Player of the Year and Ulster Footballer of the Year - both awards were won by Larne's Leroy Millar. Transfermarkt value: €250,000 Photo: Desmond Loughery/Pacemaker Press
8. Centre-midfield: Chris Shields (Linfield)
Chris Shields has been a star in Linfield's midfield since joining from Dundalk and played 35 times in the Premiership for the Blues this season alongside scoring in the BetMcLean Cup final against Coleraine. Transfermarkt value: €225,000 Photo: Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker