5 players Barcelona cannot afford to drop

#3: Jordi Alba

FC Barcelona v Malaga CF - La Liga

Barcelona defensively have been very effective this term, conceding just four goals in Spain's top-flight and a further one more in the Champions League.

It's something that will give the club cause for encouragement, not least given the level of criticism regarding their defensive woes in recent seasons.

Alba has always been impressive in attack since joining five years ago, but this season, he continues to develop his knack of creating clear-cut opportunities in the final third.

With 15 chances created and four assists in nine league appearances thus far, he's Barcelona's best statistically in terms of creation this campaign. Fast-flowing football helps on the counter-attack and the Spaniard's able to express himself more freely in possession, as shown by his stats.

Despite often being criticised for a lack of consistency defensively, he has made an extra effort to help out more often and with increasing significance this term too. With decent tackles to regain possession and regular interceptions (17 in total), he's clearly trying to improve the defensive side of his game.

His link-up play with Lionel Messi continues to blossom and as one of their more creative players, Alba simply cannot be dropped at present.

Stats' source: Squawka