Konami has announced a huge raft of new features and improvements set to appear in Pro Evolution Soccer 2010.

The features, which have apparently been made following a lot of attention being given to fan feedback, cover everything from enhanced AI and strategy elements to online play to licensing.

So, what have we got?

Licensing - Konami says that it has the exclusive video games rights to the Europa League Licence (formerly the UEFA Cup). The publisher has also struck up a deal with Lionel Messi of Barcelona (greatest footballer of the time period from 11am and 11:59am today and, according to Andy SPOnG, a "bloody genius") to promote the game.

On the gameplay front, Konami tells us, "Intuitive zonal defending will cover spaces and players need to look constantly for new ways to attack" and "In addition to key out-field elements, goalkeepers are more versatile and with abilities matching those of modern shot-stoppers. The game’s referees have also been reworked, with smarter AI elements allowing them to make more balanced calls during matches."

The graphics have been tweaked, apparently, to make the game more realistic. Player expressions are being depicted using lighting that changes with the weather and improved stadium detail has been lavished upon the grounds.

Similarly, the animations have been enhanced with improved integration of dribbling and shots, while crowd reactions will be more varied and will subtly shift between home and away matches.

On the Master League front, your manager's career has been lengthened while "far-ranging and vital new additions" have been thrown into the mode. Konami isn't telling us what they are yet, but expect more details at a later date.

The AI has had an overhaul, with "Teamvision 2.0" having been implemented. So, what does that mean? Konami says, "Midfielders and defenders now work together to cover open space and close down attacks, meaning that cover can be provided for lower-ranked defenders. This also has the additional effect of removing soft goals, thus returning PES 2010 to its simulation roots.

"In terms of attacking, players can also now move several players once, sending them into different areas, opening up more goal-scoring possibilities than ever before. As such, PES 2010 necessitates a new level of control from the player. Strategic thinking is as important as quick passing, but the new system greatly opens the way the player oversees control of the team. In free kick scenarios, for instance, players can now instigate the runs of the players awaiting the ball in the penalty area."

On top of that, your team's formation will now better reflect individual's style of play. Here's an example from Konami: "if a player who is known to be a good crosser of the ball is in possession, more players will flood the penalty area to receive it."

On the strategy front, "A new power gauge system allows users to balance their strategy in a quick, but wide-ranging way before a match."

As for online - Konami now has a team dedicated purely to providing online support.

For more on the lengthy list of features set to be included in the game, see the full press release here.

PES 2010 is set for release on the Xbox 360, PS3, PC, PSP, PS2 and mobile phones in Autumn. No mention of a Wii version yet, but SPOnG expects an announcement to follow at a later date.