Top 5 left-backs in the world

Being football fanatics, we always want to see as many goals as possible. Strikers hitting the back of net makes us feel elated as we clench our fists in joy. As goalkeepers make spectacular saves, we praise them and wish they could pull off save after save, week in and week out. However, hardly do we  realize the importance of midfielders and defenders in the modern game.

In this section we take a look at defenders, notably the left-back position, on the pitch. From Sir Alf Ramsey devising the 4—4–2 formation which revolutionised the beautiful game, the left back position has been of great importance. From stopping opposition crosses from the wings, to helping their side in the attacking build up play and providing assists, this position in a team’s starting 11 might eventually decide the fate of the game.

so, we take a look at the Top 5 left-backs of World Football today.

Leighton Baines:

Perhaps one of the best left backs of the EPL, this 28-year-old forms the heart of the Blues from Merseyside. His immense stamina and ability to play as a winger would add value to any team in the world. He is a solid tackler who can run for the whole ninety minutes and deliver deadly crosses from the flanks. He scores often from free kicks and provides numerous assists, which is an asset for any player in the world; more so when you are defender.

Filipe Luis:

Many persons reading his name in the list would question his selection. But the Atletico Madrid star is an immensely fit athlete with a solid left foot, and is one of the most complete defenders in the world right now. His attacking prowess is second to none, and that is exactly the reason top EPL clubs are after his signature. Many might not know he is a Brazilian.

Gael Clichy:

Could we have made this list without this Frenchman ? An asset to Manchester City‘s title credentials, we only wonder why Arsene Wenger allowed Clichy to leave Arsenal. Someone who can run for the full ninety minutes or more can’t be overlooked . His defensive positioning is superb and his crosses are top notch. Fantasy football managers would know how many points he rakes up every weekend from providing assists to scoring goals . Number 3 on our list .

Marcelo:

Speed, power and fitness are three of the most important attributes needed to be a left-back. This Brazilian has all of the qualities in his game. The rare ability of a left-back who can dribble in the final third is another unique quality possessed by the Real Madrid man. It might be not a surprise if Jose Mourinho plays him in a winger’s role from next season. Our Number 2 in the list, and its not a surprise selection, is it ?

Ashley Cole:

Who else would it be ? After a lot of drama, he penned a new deal for the Stamford Bridge side, which makes him the top earning defender in world football. An important member of Chelsea‘s glorious double last season, Cole has been rock solid at the back, and his crucial assists and goals in testing times easily makes him the best left back in the world. Would there be any doubt ?

Honourable mentions :

6. Patrice Evra

7. Jordi Alba

8. Fabio Coentrao

9. Aly Cissokho

10. Dominic Criscito and Fredrico Balzaretti

This is only our list where we considered several parameters like speed, agility, value added on the pitch, assists, goals, and most importantly, defensive techniques coupled with attacking instincts . Feel free to voice your opinions and choices if we have missed any.