In the modern Premier League, it has been claimed that the art of defending has been lost. However, it is more correct to argue that the expectations placed on defenders have shifted. The back four are no longer just responsible for keeping the sheets clean.
Defenders are now playing an increasingly important role in possession, whether it's initiating plays with long passes or bursting down the flanks to create scoring possibilities. Here are the ten Premier League defenders that are currently excelling in this brave new environment.
10. Conor Coady : Club-Wolves
With Conor Coady at the head, Wolves' defensive record has always been strong, and this season is no exception.
The 28-year-old is one of the Premier League's most consistent players, thanks to his willingness to put his body on the line time and time again. So far, you've given up 16 goals? Please accept my request.
9. Reece James : Club-Chelsea
Chelsea's success under Thomas Tuchel has been primarily due to the German's preferred wing-back system being implemented successfully.
Tuchel has a versatile talent in Reece James who is more than capable of doing the heavy work on defense as well as moving forward and delivering goals and assists.
8. Antonio Rudiger : Club-Chelsea
Antonio Rudiger's stock has skyrocketed in the last 12 months, making him one of the most in-demand centre-backs in the world.
Rudiger, a dangerous ball-playing defender who not only analyzes the game superbly and is terrific in the air, but is also extremely comfortable joining in assaults with the ball at his feet, is another beneficiary of Tuchel's tactical adjustment.
7. Kyle Walker : Club-Manchester City
Look no further than Kyle Walker if you're looking for the ideal defender to bail you out and cover handing the ball away.
The Manchester City and England star is unbelievably good at covering territory and very definitely has the quickest acceleration of any Premier League player, allowing City to be as free-flowing as they are.
6. Thiago Silva : Club-Chelsea
Thiago Silva is 37 years old, but who cares?
He's still as good as ever at reading and managing the game, and he's still a threat from set pieces. Chelsea needs his expertise and leadership qualities, and he's a huge reason why they've only conceded 18 goals thus far.
5. Joao Cancelo : Club-Manchester City
Many people were underwhelmed with Manchester City's signing of Joao Cancelo from Juventus in 2019. Any reservations about the 27-year-ability old's have been dispelled in his third season at the Etihad.
Cancelo has the touch and finesse to pick out passes and through balls that few others can see on either side of the defense or as a supplemental midfielder. That is why Pep Guardiola admires him so much.
4. Andrew Robertson : Club-Liverpool
Liverpool's attacking power down each wing is legendary, therefore it's no wonder that Andy Robertson is regarded as one of the best defenders in the league.
Granted, the Scot hasn't been at his very best throughout the season, but he possesses a degree of class that few left-backs in the world possess. He's still the best in the business, in fact.
3. Trent Alexander-Arnold : Club-Liverpool
After a shaky couple of months and certain defensive mistakes, some questioned Trent Alexander-ability. Arnold's
Fortunately, Liverpool's right-back has put all of it behind him, has returned stronger than ever, and is unquestionably the league's most threatening full-back.
2. Ruben Dias : Club-Manchester City
Because he cost a lot of money and Pep Guardiola has such an incredible roster at his disposal, Ruben Dias' contribution at Manchester City is frequently ignored.
To be honest, Dias has proven to be the ideal replacement for the famous and world-class Vincent Kompany, and there's no reason why he shouldn't continue to dominate attacks for the next decade if he stays happy in Manchester.
1. Virgil van Dijk : Club-Liverpool
Can anyone claim to be the finest defender in the Premier League other than Virgil van Dijk?
No, we don't believe so. The Dutchman is unstoppable in every aspect of the game and is on his way to becoming a legendary figure at Liverpool.