EPL Preview: Sergio Aguero and the 5 Most Underrated Stars in the Premiership

With the buzz surrounding the English Premier League growing worldwide, and the first matches already in the books, it is time to look at some of the biggest players that you don't even know. This list is five of the most underrated stars in the EPL, whether or not you have heard of them.

Sure, Sergio Aguero is not a nobody and has already made a splash with Manchester City. However, with most of the world just beginning to open its eyes to the beginning of the 2011-2012 EPL season, let's take a deeper look at some of the biggest contributors for contending teams.

The 2011 season looks to already be an interesting year for world football, with lots of players changing squads and on loan to new foreign teams. However, it is veteran players such as Arsenal's Robin van Persie or Chelsea's Florent Malouda that I want to take a closer look at because of their quality performances over the years. 

Let's check out who's on the list of the most underrated stars of the EPL. 

With American midfielder Clint Dempsey leading the way last season, Fulham trudged through a 12th-place finish in the Premier League. Fulham had very few bright spots, especially from their attackers, but Bobby Zamora turned some heads. 

After returning from numerous injuries that had plagued much of the past two seasons, Zamora notched up an impressive six goals in just 12 appearances during the 2010-2011 season, including the squad's final goal of the season against Arsenal.

Zamora has a very well-rounded game and superb athleticism, making moves on the pitch that few can even dream of. However, most in America do not know about Zamora because he has yet to star for a national team or a championship squad. 

The striker's standout play was rewarded by English coach Fabio Capello, who called Zamora up for England's Euro 2012 qualifier against Switzerland. Zamora has excelled at every level and earned his chance to start for Fullham after solid stints with Tottenham and West Ham. 

Look for Zamora to be the main force for Fulham this year, who is normally quite competitive and will be hungry for success as this season kicks off. 

Malouda, one of the most talented players in the world, plays second or even third fiddle to perhaps the best athlete on the planet in Chelsea striker Didier Drogba. Along with Drogba is Nicolas Anelka, the phenomenal forward with incredible skills. 

Drogba’s 96 goals over his Chelsea career have diminished Malouda’s ability to make an offensive impact, but do not overlook his overall importance. Florent has 34 career goals, including a career-high 13 goals last season. 

His 20 career assists are extremely valuable to Chelsea’s success and domination in the Premier League, as his crisp passing and versatility make him an asset that is invaluable to the Blues. 

Although a star for France on the national team, Malouda is relatively unknown and is the third-most recognizable player on his club. With Drogba and Anelka commanding the attention, Malouda is quietly putting together a great career. 

Robin van Persie, who became a household name when he helped the Dutch football team to the 2010 World Cup final, has played for Arsenal with relative obscurity. Since Arsenal has been home to Cesc Fabregas and Thierry Henry, van Persie has been able to put together a great resume without any scrutiny. 

Although injuries have slowed Robin occasionally over the past four seasons, his style of play has never lacked effort and voracity. In the 2010-2011 season, he matched the Premier League record for goals scored between Jan. 1 and the end of a season, netting 18 times in 19 appearances. 

Robin might be the best free-kick taker in the Premier League, although not very well known. He scored in nine consecutive away matches, smashing the old record by three matches in the process. 

Van Persie will be leading a talented and balanced Arsenal attack this year, but you can count on him putting in goals by the bunches. Expect a 20-goal season for him as he continues to grow and get better in a bigger, more centralized role. 

Jenas, who broke into the Premier League with Nottingham and then went to Newcastle United, came to Tottenham and solidified a mediocre midfield. His excellent workman-like style of play has impressed many Hotspur fans, but Jenas‘ stats have not garnered him awards. 

Jenas in 2006-07 had a career-high six goals during the Premier League season and nine overall. Seasons of six goals are big for Jenas, who has failed to record a goal in the past two seasons. 

However, Jenas’ play is more valuable than just a couple goals. His passing and defense are exemplary, and his leadership in the middle of the pitch is the stuff of legends. Tottenham would be a lot worse without Jenas, even if they got a better scorer. 

Jenas has recorded numerous assists in every one of seasons, including seven in the 2007-08 campaign. He can create opportunities for forwards and attackers, while providing shutdown defense. 

Look for Tottenham to surprise some people this season, behind the strong play of Jenas. 

OK, so maybe he is not underrated considering the hefty price Manchester City paid to get him this offseason. Aguero was an absolute star for Atletico Madrid in La Liga and for Argentina in international play, combining with Diego Forlan on the Madrid squad for an incredible run. 

Aguero is a superstar in the making for the Premier League. He already had one of the greatest debuts in history, scoring twice off the bench in very limited time, giving Man City a decisive 4-0 win. 

Aguero is automatically going to be one of the best strikers in the league, but the real question is how long will it be until he becomes a big ticket? Still relatively unknown, Aguero might be the best players that many futbol fans do not know about. 

Even though he is married to Diego Maradona’s daughter, Sergio still manages to keep his head straight and play phenomenal soccer. I, for one, am so excited to see what magic he has in store for Manchester City as they attempt to make a run in 2011-12.