In modern football, the attackers take most of the plaudits owing to the goals or assists that win games, or on the odd occasion, a defender or a goal keeper gets a mention thanks to their match-saving heroics, but the players who go most unnoticed are the battlers in midfield who help keep danger at bay owing to their timely interceptions. Here’s a look at the top five tacklers in the Premier League this season.
Stats Source: Squawka
5. Karim Al Ahmadi (Aston Villa): 51
The Moroccan has been impressive for an Aston Villa side that currently lies in 11th place. Playing as a defensive midfielder or as an orthodox one, he has shied away from a challenge this season, and has won 51 of the 89 tackles he has attempted this season (57% success). He has committed 33 fouls and collected 3 yellow cards so far this season, but with so many tackles flying in, he is bound to have made a few mistime ones.
4. Mile Jedinak (Crystal Palace): 55
The Crystal Palace skipper has been their best player in the middle of the park this season by far. He has led the side from the front and has been a tough presence in midfield. An improvement in his performances has coincided with an uptick in the points haul for the team. He has won 55 of the 102 tackles he has attempted this season (54% success) but has committed 28 fouls and collected 4 yellow cards so far this season.