#3 On-the-ball ability
With the demands of the modern game ever increasing, defending nowadays isn’t simply about no-nonsense tackles or monstrous clearances, but also about retaining possession and staying calm and collected on the ball.
This has become a prerequisite for defenders at top tier clubs. Consequently, defenders who are comfortable with the ball at their feet can allow the team to suck in the opposition and exploit the hole left in behind by the invited high press. John Stones is an excellent example of such a player.
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