Top 5 English defenders in the 2020-21 Premier League so far

Modified Jan 11, 2021 02:49 GMT

Gareth Southgate has seen some options pop up in the defensive positions this season

#3 Ben Chilwell

In the summer of 2020, Ben Chilwell moved from Leicester City to Chelsea and took little time to settle in and feel at home at Stamford Bridge.

The Englishman is now the undisputed first-choice left-back at Chelsea, and that has been down to how well he has acquitted himself at both ends of the pitch.

Chilwell and Reece James on the other flank are major attacking outlets for Frank Lampard's side now.

The English left-back has not failed to impress thus far, and has the output to go with quality performances as well. Chilwell already has two goals and five assists in all competitions this season.

At the moment, he should be considered the unanimous first choice to play at left-back for England in the European Championship.

#2 Reece James

There is no dearth of talent at right-back for England, but so far this season, Reece James has easily stood out.

His importance to this Chelsea side can be been seen in the last few games, where he has not been able to play every minute. And the Blues' levels have dropped without him.

James has already built a superb understanding with new Chelsea signing Hakim Ziyech, even though the Moroccan is yet to feature extensively for the Blues.

James has a goal and three assists to his name this season, and has been defensively solid too. Based on current form, he should be leading the race to play at right-back for England at the Euros.

#1 John Stones

This redemption arc has been one of the stories of the season. At the moment, purely on merit, John Stones has ensured that Aymeric Laporte has been reduced to a place on the bench.

Stones has formed an excellent partnership with Ruben Dias at the heart of City's defence. In the eight games they have started together, the Citizens have kept seven clean sheets and conceded just once.

Stones has also popped up with an important goal or two so far this season - like the one in the Carabao Cup semi-final against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

With Joe Gomez injured and set to miss the Euros, Stones' return to form is a welcome sign for Gareth Southgate.

Edited by Samya Majumdar