Premier League: 5 players central to their team's fortunes this season

#2 Fernandinho (Manchester City)

Fernandinho's absence has derailed Manchester City's ambitions

Manchester City have trailed off badly in the last 4 games. Two unforseen losses in their last two games have seen the Cityzens fall 10 points behind Liverpool.

Many reasons have been adduced for the sudden loss in form. However, the absence of Fernandinho has clearly been the biggest reason The Brazilian international has been the model of consistency since he joined the Cityzens for £30m in 2013.

While N'Golo Kante has ben hailed as the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League, Fernandinho has reprised the Claude Makalele role to perfection. He has shielded the backline, made last-minute interventions, started attacks and allowed the more creative players the freedom to perform.

In the 17 games he has played for City this season, the team has lost only once. In the two he has missed, Pep Guardiola's men have lost two games and conceded 5 goals.

If the Cityzens are to overhaul the Reds and retain their Premier League title, Fernandinho will be central to what is looking at the moment like Mission Impossible.