DF: Branislav Ivanovic
Ivanovic is a defensive rock for the Premier League champions, and has a habit of scoring important goals too. However, perhaps most important of all, he has added real consistency to his game and he has become a dependable part of Jose Mourinho’s team.
DF: Laurent Koscielny
If Arsenal are to have the season that many expect that they will, then they will need a defensive leader to step up and have the year of his career so far.
Looking at their expected line-up, that man has to be Koscielny and provided he can steer clear of injuries, he will play a crucial role for Wenger.
DF: John Terry
Terry rightfully took his place in last year’s Team of the Year, with Mourinho suggesting that it was his best season yet under his management.
The former England captain won’t have lost a step over the summer, and he will be as commanding as ever as the Blues look to defend their crown.
DF: Luke Shaw
Shaw had a difficult first season at Old Trafford, with his progress often disrupted by injuries and lack of form.
In contrast, he has looked sharp in pre-season and could well be ready to produce the kind of form that earned him that big-money move from Southampton.
COMMENTS