Amith Passela looks back at the top performers of the last campaign and selects his 2012 Pro League dream team.
The first XI
Ali Kasheif, Al Jazira
The goalkeeper returned from a back injury to play a major role for his club as they won the President's Cup and reached last 16 of the Asian Champions League.
Ismail Ahmed, Al Ain
The strongly built centre back really does not care who he is up against, he will do his best to stop anyone from getting anywhere near his goal.
Mohammed Shaibah, Al Wahda
The Oman international has been a rock in the centre of the Wahda defence and has the versatility to cover other positions when needed.
Abdulaziz Haikal, Al Shabab
He is level headed and has a cool approach to possession on the ball. The full-back can play his way out of trouble and is a member of Mahdi Ali's Olympic team.
Fares Juma, Al Ain
The right back is solid and consistent. He has the pace to take the opposition by surprise when he is in an attacking mood. He is also useful to have around at set pieces.
Matias Delgado, Al Jazira
The Argentine is versatile and could play at any of the midfield roles. He has the ability to get himself in positions to pounce, create or score goals.
Helal Saeed, Al Ain
A workhorse who had an outstanding season for the Pro League champions. He is deceptively influential in the midfield and solid in both attack and defence.
Omar Abdulrahman, Al Ain
He missed more than half the season but when he returned he was brilliant, both for his club and the Olympic team. He is quick and mesmerises the opposition.
Abdulla Mousa, Al Jazira
He played a stellar role for his club and has been shortlisted as an overage player in the Olympic squad. The left winger can score and create goals.
Ricardo Oliveira, Al Jazira
The Brazilian is still the most expensive player in the league at Dh62 million. He has been outstanding for his club this season with his all-round play.
Asamoah Gyan, Al Ain
The Ghana international is the top scorer in the Pro League with 22 goals from 18 starts. He is strong and combative, and combines his speed with sharpness in front of the goal.
Reserves
Majed Naser, Al Wasl
- Now that he has decided to return from a 17-match ban, the goalkeeper warrants a place in the squad.
Juma Abdulla, Al Jazira
- The lanky centre-back is solid in defence and useful at set pieces.
Amer Abdulrahman, Baniyas
- A skilful dribbler and a confident player who can take on the opposition.
Ismail Matar, Al Wahda
- Still the most influential Emirati player but will have to play a secondary role behind Gyan and Oliveira. He is versatile and could be used as a third forward or attacking midfielder.
Ahmed Khalil, Al Ahli
- The young forward is expected to be a key figure in attack for the Olympic team.
