Premier League 2023-24: 4 outfielder players who didn't miss a minute this season
The Premier League is one of the most demanding leagues in the world, given the number of cup competitions involved compared to leagues in other countries. Some clubs participate in the Premier League, League Cup, and FA Cup simultaneously, while others have additional European commitments.
Furthermore, numerous players travel across the world to represent their nations, making it a strenuous job for footballers in the European top-flight. Real Madrid superstar Toni Kroos criticized UEFA for creating new tournaments at both the club and international levels, labeling the players as "puppets of UEFA.
However, despite these challenges, some players were fortunate enough to stay fit throughout the season and play every minute of the 2023-24 Premier League campaign. In this article, we will look at four players who did not miss a single minute of Premier League action.
#4 Max Kilman
Napoli showed serious interest in signing Max Kilman as a replacement for the outgoing Kim Min-Jae last summer. However, Wolves turned down a reported €35 million bid from the Italian club and persuaded Kilman to stay by making him the permanent captain of the team.
Despite being expected to be involved in the relegation battle, Wolves are projected to finish between 10th and 14th, depending on the outcome of their final game against Liverpool and the results of their competitors.
At the heart of Wolves' defense is Max Kilman, who has played every minute of their 2023-24 Premier League campaign. He partners with Nelson Semedo and Toti in the back three, scoring two league goals against Everton and Manchester United.
#3 James Tarkowski
A Sean Dyche team without James Tarkowski is hard to imagine. The English centre-back, who played for Dyche at Burnley, continues to be a key part of his side at Merseyside. Tarkowski's partnership with Jarrad Branthwaite in defense has received plenty of praise, despite a midfield that struggles to maintain possession.
A quintessential no-nonsense defender, Tarkowski has worn the armband on numerous occasions and led as a warrior from the back. In the recent Merseyside derby against Liverpool, he hardly put a foot wrong throughout the game. Tarkowski also has the chance to impact the title race on Sunday, as Everton face Arsenal in a match that could end the Gunners' title hopes.
#2 Joachim Andersen
Joachim Andersen is one of the most elegant centre-backs with the ball at his feet in the Premier League. The Danish international's ability extends beyond his defensive contributions, with his long passes from his own half consistently troubling opponents.
Having spent every minute on the pitch for the Eagles this season, Andersen has scored two goals and provided three assists. His partnership with Chris Richards and Nathaniel Clyne has significantly elevated the quality of Palace's defense.
Newcastle United showed interest in bringing Andersen to St. James' Park, but this seems unlikely as the Magpies are close to finalizing deals for Tosin Adarabioyo and Lloyd Kelly. New manager Oliver Glasner will be hoping to retain his star defender for the upcoming season.
#1 William Saliba
Since the beginning of the previous season, William Saliba has established himself as one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League. The Gunners, who struggled after Saliba's injury last campaign, are still in the hunt for the Premier League crown, taking it to the final day against Manchester City, thanks to Saliba's availability throughout the season.
At only 23, the Arsenal centre-back has continued to improve and is on track to become the best defender in the world, given his talent and ability to remain composed during crucial moments. His partnership with Gabriel has been nothing short of imperious, preventing the opposition from having easy shots on goal.
Saliba has also contributed offensively, scoring two goals and providing one assist in the Premier League.