These days, defending in the Prem? It goes beyond simply heading the ball into orbit or crashing into strikers. These center-backs?
In addition to anticipating like chess grandmasters and passing like midfielders, they are required to body anyone who gets cheeky. Here is my ranking of this season’s best defenders, going backwards for drama. For what reason?
11. Manchester United’s Leny Yoro
Since Yoro is the newest kid on the block, it’s a bit of a risk, but an enjoyable one, to include him on this list. Yes, he is raw, but with all the excitement surrounding him at United, he has the potential to become very popular. Or fail. Who knows? The potential is absurd, though.
10. AFC Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi
Sadly, Senesi is never the bride but always the bridesmaid. He is essentially the glue in that defence, but people sleep on him because, well, he’s at Bournemouth. This guy is the reason Bournemouth won’t be leaking goals for fun this season. His stats—blocks, tackles, everything—will be adored by stats enthusiasts.
9. Liverpool player Ibrahima Konaté
One of those men who doesn’t receive enough affection is Konaté. He is a powerful, quick player who fills in for Van Dijk when things go wrong. It’s not ostentatious, but you can see how many fires he puts out if you watch the games. Additionally, he is ranked in the top five by those analytics experts. Show respect.
8. Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven
Van de Ven is a lot of fun. He is youthful, quick, and appears to have springs in his legs. Fantasy managers watch him in the hopes that he secures a consistent position. He will be a major factor if the Spurs are able to improve their defence.
7. Sunderland’s Omar Alderete
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