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

Defenders: Marcus Alonso (Chelsea), Virgil Van Dijk (Liverpool), Craig Cathcart (Watford), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea)

The full backs, Alonso and Azpilicueta easily get into the team on the weight of their performances for Chelsea. Many had believed Alonso would struggle to function as a conventional full back. However, Alonso has put those fears to rest and has been solid in his new role. Additionally, he has also caused havoc in the attacking third and popped up with the winner against Arsenal.

Partnering him on the other flank is Azpilicueta. Azpilicueta has been an ever-present in the Chelsea side for a number of years and looks primed to play an important role under Maurizio Sarri as well. In the four games, he has averaged 2.3 tackles per game apart from 1.5 interceptions. He would provide balance to the back line since he is more reserved in his approach and would let Alonso play high up the pitch.

The center backs, Van Dijk and Cathcart have been immense for their respective sides. Van Dijk has averaged 5.5 clearances per game and was at his best against Crystal Palace. Cathcart, on the other hand, has been equally sturdy and averages 6 clearances per game to go with 1.8 tackles and 2.3 interceptions per game.

Both center backs have been the rock on which their team’s success has been built. Thus, they get into the team on the back of their colossal displays.

Of the two center backs, Van Dijk is a good distributor of the ball and can play out from the back while Cathcart is good at playing long balls, over the top.

The back line seems pretty settled and it would be a nightmare for any forward to face them.

Chelsea v Southampton - Premier League