Centre-Backs
In a league where Goal Difference plays a massive role in determining the final positions (just ask Manchester United’s 2011/12 squad how crucial it is), it is no wonder then that teams do not sit back even if they have a comfortable two-goal cushion. Games are often played at a hell-for-leather pace and the “end-to-end” football serves as entertainment from the so-called ‘Best League in the World”.
So when the meanest defence in the league has conceded less than a goal a game, you have to tip your hat to the defenders. Spurs’ Toby Alderweireld has been one of the best centre-backs in the league and it will be surprising if he does not make the cut.
The Belgian has had his share of injury layoffs but has still managed to play 24 games, clocking more than 2000 minutes. His assured presence at the back even with the ball at his feet gives Spurs the extra option when circulating the ball and building attack from the back. Ignore his dangerous diagonal long balls at your own peril.
Alongside him is Chelsea’s David Luiz. The most expensive defender in the world when he was sold for £50m to PSG, the Brazilian made the move back to Chelsea this season after he was disillusioned in Paris. He slotted straight into Antonio Conte’s defence when the Italian boss ditched the 4-man backline and opted for a three-man defence.
The tactic worked as Chelsea went on a 13-match winning run and Luiz played the full 90 minutes in each fixture. While he hasn’t scored from set-pieces as much as he did in his first stint, he did score that free-kick in the 1-1 draw with Liverpool.
Honourable mention: Virgil van Dijk (Southampton)
