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Right-back: Cesar Azpilicueta
Cesar Azpilicueta was a strong performer in Chelsea’s defence last season, picking up a Player of the Year award for his displays. The Spaniard has worked his way back into the Spain squad thanks to his strong performances. Azpilicueta won 74 tackles in the Premier League last year and played out of position for the majority of his appearances.
Naturally a right-back, the Spaniard was forced to play on the left of the defence, taking Ashley Cole’s place in the side. He did not look out of place and could well be relied on this summer.
Central defender: Gary Cahill
Cahill has played his way into England contention a while back and has now made the position his own. John Terry is no longer in England contention, meaning Cahill – his Chelsea partner – is the leading candidate and leader in defence.
The Englishman will be his side’s most important defender this season. His strength, pace, aerial ability and overall defending ability means he will lead from the back. Cahill is a potential captain in a couple of years should he continue his consistency.
Central defender: Vincent Kompany
Kompany is the leader for Belgium. He is a bulldozer of a central defender but is also excellent with the ball at his feet. The Belgian used to play in central midfield so is capable of bringing the ball out of the back to good effect.
She’s fantastic in the air, too, proven by the 73% headed duel success (32/44) in the Premier League. He struggled with his fitness in stages last season but he’s back fit and could provide the platform for Belgium to move forward and triumph.
Left-back: Ricardo Rodriguez
Ricardo Rodriguez is probably the most unknown player in this side. He starred for Wolfsburg last season and could well be on his way to a big European club after the summer.
The Swiss international is a part of a talented, youthful side and could well be the main man in the squad this summer. He scored five goals from left-back and created 78 chances – one of the most in Europe.
He regularly gets forward to attack but also is a top quality defender having won 90 tackles, 102 headed duels and dribbled past 87 players. He also made 114 clearances and 63 interceptions. Keep an eye on Switzerland and Rodriguez.
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