What is a ‘cult hero’? The definition of such a player is often clouded, with many fans missing the point entirely to name stars such as Thierry Henry Didier Drogba and Steven Gerrard as their ‘cult heroes’.

But in truth, to qualify for such a tag a player must be out of the limelight, earning his reputation within his club through hard work, toil or perhaps one magic defining moment. It’s hard to put a finger on just what it takes to enter the pantheon of the ‘cult hero’, but here are FIVE currently plying their trade in the Premier League…

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Tony Hibbert

Unfashionable, a bit ‘old school’ and widely unappreciated outside of Goodison Park, Hibbert is, arguably, the current epitome of the ‘cult hero’. The 33-year-old Merseyside-born right-back has spent his entire career at Everton, but has rarely been thought of as a contender for one of the best players in his position in the Premier League or even a key man on the team-sheet. Yet he is loved by Toffees fans, whom admire his work rate, determination and fierce commitment. Also, he appears to have bought every pair of black football boots in England, which helps.

Jordan Henderson

Signed during the forgettable second Kenny Dalglish era, Henderson looked to be destined for the ‘big money flop’ tag after just a year at the club. But, despite Brendan Rodgers initially attempting to offload the midfielder, the former Sunderland youth star has blossomed under his Northern Irish manager, transforming from a flaky midfield drifter into an all-energy creative force. Away from Anfield some fans question the hype, but Kopites know that the now England star is a tireless worker with a sprinkling of star quality.

Martin Demichelis

At first Demichelis appeared to be scarily out of his depth as he arrived at City last year. Some cumbersome displays – capped by an embarrassing challenge on Lionel Messi in the Champions League – made him a laughing stock among his own supporters, but the Argentine recovered well. From his long hair to his un-trendy playing style, the former Bayern Munich man appeared every bit the ‘cult hero’, and provided some great displays around two thirds of the way through last season to back it all up.

Julian Speroni

Over 300 appearances for the Eagles make Speroni a part of the furniture in south London. The Argentine stopper has been solid throughout his time at Crystal Palace, and is now keeping January signing Wayne Henessey out of the XI after producing numerous top class saves to keep his side in the top term last season. Despite this, Speroni is rarely talked about away from Selhurst Park.

Jose Fonte

By no means a local lad, the Portuguese defender is a loved man on the South Coast after rising through the divisions with the Saints. Fonte signed for Southampton back in their League One days, and his classy yet imposing playing style has been key in the club’s move from the third tier to Premier League safety. Again, despite his performances, the centre-back has widely stayed out of the limelight.