The domestic league in England is one of the most demanding in terms of effort and concentration as the amount of attacking quality in the ranks of various teams is just too high. Hence, it does not come as a surprise that clubs from around the league spend big on top class defenders. This has seen some top class defenders join the league in the last few seasons with some veterans keeping up their good work. This season has seen some star defenders come to light, helping their sides to some important results. But who has been the best defender in the league this season? It is a hard question to answer but with a bit of research, we have come up with 4 best defenders in the league this season.
Michael Keane (Burnley):
Even with all the big names around him, Keane has been brilliant this season and stands as the best defender statistically so far this campaign in the league. He has won more aerial battles and made more outfield blocks than any other player in the PL this season. He has 54 interceptions, 215 clearances and 148 headed clearances to his name, which are all in the top 5 in the league, thus making him one of the best defenders this season in the league.
Steve Cook (AFC Bournemouth):
Another player from the fringe teams in the Premier League to make this list is Bournemouth’s Steve Cook who has been solid at the back for his side. He has won 108 ariel duels and has made 32 blocks and 51 interceptions which are among the best for defenders in the league. He also made more normal and headed clearances than any other player in the league, making him an influential player in England this season.
Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal):
Finding a place in the top 10 in all defence related stats this season, Koscielny is one of the most influential defenders in this campaign. His success in 98 ariel duels and 73 interceptions is better than any other player playing for a top 6 side and only Jan Vertonghen beats him in the clearances and headed clearances section so far this season. He has helped Arsenal to numerous victories and is one of the best defenders at the moment not just in England but also in Europe.
Virgil van Dijk (Southampton):
Another player who has found a place in the top 10 in every defense-related list in the PL this season is Southampton’s Dutch star Virgil van Dijk. He has won 98 aerial battles, has made 58 interceptions and 142 clearances, which is on the higher side for a defender who has made as many appearances as him this season. He has also made 87 headed clearances, more than any other Southampton player and has easily been Claude Puel’s best defender this season. Surely, he is not too far away from being the best in the league.
*All stats were taken from the Premier League’s official website.