Top 5 EPL full-backs this season

Now a days, defends are also expected to contribute to the offensive play, and in many cases fullbacks play a crucial role as an attacking outlet. Whether it be with goals, or with assists, defenders now do their share up the other end of the pitch as well, and here’s a look at the five most attacking full-backs in the Premier League this season.

5. Mathieu Debuchy (Newcastle United)

Mathieu Debuchy

The Frenchman has been a very good attacking outlet for Newcastle on the right hand side, and can constantly be seen pushing forward into opposition territory. He is keen to go on the overlap, and frequently gets into good crossing positions near the byline. He scored his only goal of the season so far when he sneaked into the far post to tap the ball home from close range, and has 16 chances created.

4. Patrice Evra (Manchester United)

The second Frenchman on this list, Evra has been good going forward for United, and his performances going forward have been much better compared to his performances while defending this season. His crossing is decent, and he frequently looks to get involved in the build-up play and given United do not employ an outright winger on the left who is keen to hug the touchline, Evra is the source of width on the left. He has surprisingly been a threat from corners and has scored one goal, and 1 goal and created 23 chances.

3. Alexander Kolarov (Manchester City)

The Serbian is one of the most attack minded full-backs in the Premier League and often spends more time in opposition half than in his own. Given the plethora of attacking talent at City, Kolarov adds an extra dimension to their play by providing width down the left hand side. He possesses a mean left foot and as the goal at Swansea proved, he has the ability to dribble past opponents, and is a threat from free-kicks as well. He has scored 1 goal and created 19 chances.

2. Leighton Baines (Everton)

Baines decided to stick around despite being linked heavily with a move to Manchester United in the summer, and the England international has proved his worth with three cracking goals so far. His deliveries from set plays are world-class, and his crossing has left many a defense scrambling to clear the ball. His galloping runs down the left are a major source of chances as evidenced by the 20 he has already created this season despite spending some time on the sidelines with an injury.

1. Seamus Coleman (Everton)

Seamus Coleman is probably the surprise inclusion in this list and not many would have expected him to be in this list at this stage of the season, let alone at the top. In December, he went on a scoring run that led to him finding the net no less than five times, and outstanding haul for a full back. His runs down the right have been a menace and he perfectly complements the more celebrated Baines who operates down the opposite flank, and has created 24 chances so far. Top player!