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Right-back: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
Alexander-Arnold has only improved from his breakout season last year and become an even better player. He is faster, cleverer, and also more progressive in possession. With 12 assists in the Premier League, he’s the most prolific assist making fullback in the division. He also showed another dimension of his game by striking a wonderful free-kick against Watford, and was also in the running for the Best Young Player award.
Centre-back: Davinson Sanchez (Tottenham Hotspur)
Tottenham played large stretches of the season without Jan Vertonghen owing to his injuries. But that proved to be a blessing in disguise for Davinson Sanchez who stepped up to the plate and held the fort. Never afraid of jumping into tackles, the Colombian youngster was also good in the air. He is someone who reads the game well and also drives forward on occasions. The 22-year old scored an impeccable header against Leicester and also laid an assist on the opening day against Newcastle.
Centre-back: Issa Diop (West Ham)
The Hammers could only achieve a mid-table finish after a frankly mediocre campaign, but Diop was the one positive thing that the club faithful can take away from the season. He was consistent in his shifts and also imbued a sense of calm that belied his age. The Frenchman also garnered praise from Jose Mourinho after the 3-1 win over Manchester United in September; where the Portuguese said,
“Congratulations to the scout who found Diop, a monster who dictated everything,”.
Left-back: Ben Chilwell (Leicester City)
One of the important reasons for Leicester’s fairly successful campaign were their marauding full-backs, who contributed in both attack and defense. One of the most visible contributions was the five assists provided by 22-year-old Ben Chilwell, who has usurped Christian Fuchs to establish himself as the first choice left-back. A strong tackler and sound in possession, Chilwell not only earned his first pair of England caps, but has also invoked interest in Manchester City, who’re touted to pursue him this summer.
