Top 3 centre-half pairings in football this season

2. Stefan Savic and Jose Gimenez (Atletico Madrid)

The Atletico Madrid pair have stepped up after the departure of club legend Diego Godin this summer and were fantastic together right until they picked up injuries in October. The two players are quite different in their style of play, but they have collaborated very well so far.

Stefan Savic is a no-nonsense defender pretty much in the mould of Diego Godin. The Montenegro defender is strong in the air and quite comfortable playing out from the back. He is capable of playing long balls from the back and is a terrific reader of the game. Savic is quite intelligent with his anticipation, which means that he is good with clearances and interceptions. However, one of his weak points is his lack of pace and this is where his defensive partner plays a pivotal role.

Jose Gimenez can be considered a pupil of Diego Godin. The two have played together for quite long for Uruguay. Over time, some of the skills and characteristics of the mentor, Godin, have been inculcated into the pupil's game. Gimenez used to be raw and rash a couple of seasons ago, but has matured well since the last term. The Uruguayan is fast and extremely active on the pitch, which bodes well alongside the more static Savic. Gimenez is a fighter on the pitch and great in aerial battles too.

Together, the two of them have reformed the Atletico Madrid defence this season. They are one of the best defensive partnerships in world football right now.