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Top-quality full-backs are in short supply these days, and every top club seems to be after one.
Full-backs these days are proving to be superstar players for their respective clubs. Since the emergence of Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson as a creative, attacking full-back duo, teams are looking for full-backs who provide thrust and impetus to their side.
Here's a look at the five best full-backs in the Premier League this season (2020/21).
#5 Vladimir Coufal (West Ham United)
West Ham United have been one of the best teams in the Premier League this season and Vladimir Coufal is one of their most underrated players.
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The Czech Republic international was a low-key signing last summer from Slavia Prague, the same club West Ham United signed Tomas Soucek from.
However, Coufal has been an inspired signing for the Hammers. The right-back has impressed with his performances this season and has been a consistent presence for David Moyes's side.
Coufal has made 33 league appearances this season, providing six assists. The 28-year old has to go down as one of the best signings of the 2020/21 Premier League season.
#4 Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
Trent Alexander-Arnold might not be enjoying his best season for Liverpool, but his performances across the season merit this position.
Liverpool are fourth in the league table with a game to go, and if they secure Champions League football it will be a positive end to what has been a dour season.
There are doubts as to whether England manager Gareth Southgate will include the right-back in his England squad for the Euros. While Alexander-Arnold has not been without his struggles, the 22-year old has put in some excellent performances in recent weeks.
Alexander-Arnold has made 35 Premier League appearances this season, scoring two goals and providing seven assists.
Also Read: 5 best teams in Premier League history
#3 Reece James (Chelsea)
Reece James' rise from the Championship to the Premier League has been a joy to watch.
A product of the famed Chelsea academy, James joined Wigan Athletic on loan in 2018, and was one of their best players that season.
On his return to Chelsea, the 21-year old became a part of the Blues' first team and has been a vital cog in the side ever since.
A marauding right-back, James' strength and speed have stood out. The England international, who has made 31 league appearances this campaign, scoring one goal and providing two assists, looks likely to be a part of the England squad for the Euros.
#2 Joao Cancelo (Manchester City)
It is hard to define Joao Cancelo's role in this Manchester City side, but it is clear that Pep Guardiola's system relies on Cancelo's versatility.
Cancelo signed for Manchester City from Juventus in 2019 for an eye-watering fee of £58.5 million, with Danilo going the other way. The Portugal international endured a quiet first season, but has been sensational during the 2020/21 campaign.
Cancelo has made 28 appearances in the Premier League this season, scoring two goals and dishing out three assists. The 26-year old has been utilized in both full-back positions, with his intelligence and passing resulting in him tucking inside to operate in midfield.
Excellent creatively as well, Cancelo has been one of Manchester City's most important players this season.
#1 Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
Arguably the best left-back in Europe this season, Luke Shaw is enjoying the finest season of his professional career.
A highly-rated talent when he joined Manchester United from Southampton for nearly £34 million in 2014, Shaw was extremely unlucky with injuries during his early years at Old Trafford.
Under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the 25-year old has looked excellent, with his creativity and crossing standing out.
A couple of years ago there was clamor to let go of Shaw. The England international now looks set to represent his country at the Euros after a world-class season for his club.
Shaw has made 32 Premier League appearances, scoring one goal and providing five assists.
Also Read: 10 amazing facts about Atletico Madrid's La Liga triumph
