#8 Xabi Alonso
A complete, consistent, hardworking and versatile midfielder, Alonso is regarded as one of the best players of his generation, and is effective both creatively and defensively. Gifted with good technique, as well as excellent vision and varied passing range, he excels in the deep-lying playmaking role, where he can best utilise his accurate long passing ability to create goal scoring chances for team-mates.
Alonso is also an excellent set-piece taker and he has scored and assisted many goals through free-kicks ,corners and penalties.
The Spaniard first came into prominence during his days ar Real Sociedad where he used to control the play superbly thanks to his passing skills and vision. After an extremely successful spell at Liverpool, Alonso moved to Real Madrid where he became an integral member of the side.
Alonso won a La Liga, the Champions League and 2 Copa Del Reys in his 5-year spell at Real Madrid. The Spaniard is one of the best deep-lying playmakers of all time.
