Sportskeeda's 10 best defenders of the year 2015
With the calendar year of 2015 drawing to a close, it is almost customary for fans of the beautiful game to kick back and recall some of the memorable performances and exhilarating events in the footballing world. While the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar mesmerized us throughout the year, Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez were the surpise package of the year.Barcelona ended up with the most number of trophies in Europe this year, but football keeps surprising us as Leicester City are near the top of the Premier League at the end of the year. While a lot of new players came in to impress, some of the elder stars are still going strong. With teams winning trophies, doubles and even trebles, there have been a number of high-performing players who deserve all the accolades that come their way.Looking at the calendar year 2015, we have shortlisted 10 of the best defenders this year. The players appear in no particular order.Who is your pick? Remember to vote in the poll at the end of the article.
#1 Laurent Koscielny - Arsenal
Frenchman Laurent Koscielny has developed into one of the most consistent defenders in the Premier League at the Emirates. The 30-year-old who arrived at Arsenal from French side Lorient in 2010 has become one of the first names on Arsene Wengers team roster.
Although he struggled for consistency and critical decision-making early on in his Arsenal career, he has come off age and has transformed his game. He has formed a solid defensive partnership with German teamate Per Mertersacker and have been one of the most effective defensive partnerships in the Premier League for a while now.
Koscielny has been one of the standout performers for the Gunners in 2015. He was instrumental as Arsenal successfully defended their FA Cup title against Aston Villa in the final in May last season.