Premier League 2018/19 - Team of the season so far

The Centre-backs

---

Virgil Van Dijk

Searching long balls, timely tackles and strong headers - Virgil Van Dijk has given everything to Liverpool this season

Liverpool's main problem last year was a weak defence and no real ball-winners in defence. They conceded 38 goals last season, a number that could have easily been lesser had they not cheaply given the ball away on many occasions. Liverpool brought in Virgil Van Dijk from Southampton during the January transfer window for a record fee of £75 million in order to solve this problem

The Dutch defender has fit into the squad very well. He has formed a solid defensive unit with Joe Gomez which has given Liverpool 5 clean sheets till now. Virgil Van Dijk hasn't gotten a step wrong this season except for giving away a penalty against Manchester City and is looking exceptional.

Aymeric Laporte

Laporte has the more touches and passes than any defender in the Premier League this season

Aymeric Laporte was labelled as one of the brightest centre-backs for the future a few years ago. With Manchester City having a team depleted by injuries, they needed a centre-back who could also cover as left-back occasionally. So, in the January transfer window, Pep Guardiola brought in Aymeric Laporte from Athletic Bilbao for £57 million. The French defender did not disappoint.

He has been heavily involved in the build-up for Manchester City having the second most touches and passes in the league, only behind Chelsea midfielder, Jorginho in both of them. His average pass percentage is a staggering 92%. He has also contributed defensively with 21 clearances and 33 recoveries.

His amazing header against Wolves into the back of the net displays the sort of attacking threat he provides. All around he has contributed immensely to Manchester City, both offensively as well as defensively.

Honourable Mentions

Antonio Rudiger

The Chelsea man has been in top form this season. From winning aerial duels (23 won) to making tackles to recovering the ball (58 recoveries), Antonio Rudiger has provided defensive stability to a Chelsea team with an explosive attack. His lightning-quick pace makes him incredibly tough to get past and his physicality makes sure he is the winner of all aerial duels. Antonio Rudiger has developed into life under Sarri and will continue to grow as the season goes on.