5 defenders who made a name for themselves this season

Modified May 23, 2017 17:04 GMT

HULL, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 25: Michael Keane of Burnley celebrates scoring his sides first goal during the Premier League match between Hull City and Burnley at KCOM Stadium on February 25, 2017 in Hull, England. (Photo by Mark Robinson/Getty Images) — Michael Keane has finally come of age at Burnley

#3 Samuel Umtiti, Barcelona

BARCELONA, SPAIN - MARCH 04: Samuel Umtiti of FC Barcelona celebrates after scoring his team's fourth goal during the La Liga match between FC Barcelona and RC Celta de Vigo at Camp Nou stadium on March 4, 2017 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) — Samuel Umtiti has resolved a problem position for Barcelona in his debut season

The perils associated with being a defender in an attack-oriented side such as Barcelona are many. To add to that, the pressure of performing for such a big club and the constant scrutiny makes it very difficult to settle at the Catalan club. One only needs to see Jeremy Mathieu, Marc Bartra and Thomas Vermaelen to understand.

So, 23-year old Samuel Umtiti had a tough task at his hands. However, if the season is any indication, the Frenchman has not only adapted to his new surroundings but also is thriving in the role. Barcelona have won 24 out of the 25 league games Umtiti has played in, which shows the stability he brings to the side.

His strength, passing ability and concentration have made him the right partner for Gerard Pique ahead of Javier Mascherano this season.

Umtiti’s presence gives balance to the defence as well as the attack. Further, the irresistible attack of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar means that the team has to put in extra defensive work and the Frenchman has lived up to the task. There is no doubt that Umtiti is one of the top defenders in the making at one of the best clubs in Europe.

(Video Courtesy – RoMarsh YouTube Channel)

Edited by Staff Editor