The top 5 defenders of the Bundesliga's Hinrunde (First Round)

The Bundesliga has headed into Winterpause, the much-needed winter break following a grueling first half of the season or what is more commonly known as Hinrunde. It is time for us to look back on some of the best players so far this season, as we draw our Bundesliga team of the season so far.

Defensively, the Bundesliga hasn't been at its best so far. With so many teams opting for all-out attacking rather than resting on their laurels, the Bundesliga's defences has taken quite a beating this season.

However, some players still managed to stand out in the defensive department. And in this article, we will take a look at top five Bundesliga defenders of the Hinrunde.

#5 David Abraham (Eintracht Frankfurt)

Argentinian defender David Abraham has always been an instrumental figure in the defensive department for Eintracht Frankfurt, especially under Niko Kovac.

And this season has been no exception as the former TSG defender has been a rock at the back for a solid Eintracht defence.

The Eagles have been transformed into a very disciplined unit thanks to Croatian manager Niko Kovac and Abraham has been the pillar of that defence. Only Bayern have conceded fewer goals than Eintracht this season, which has helped them finish the year in a fairly respectable eighth place.

His vast experience coupled with his ability to shore up the backline has been one of the reasons behind Eintracht's impressive defence this season. The 31-year-old will no doubt play an important role for the club, in the second half of the season.

#4 Bastian Oczipka (FC Schalke 04)

Oczipka has been one of the standout players in Schalke's fantastic season so far

Bastian Oczipka was probably the smartest buy in the summer for Schalke. The former Eintracht Frankfurt player has been quick to make an impact at the Veltins Arena with his technical qualities.

Oczipka has been a vital cog in Schalke's system this season. He has been used as a left wingback, in Domenico Tedesco's favoured 3/5 man backline.

Primarily a fullback, his excellent passing abilities coupled with his technical qualities has allowed him to serve as one of the main sources for creating chances. His tally of 42 chances created is only better by someone who also makes an appearance on this list.

Although he might be as dynamic nor as powerful as Sead Kolasinac on the flanks, the former Eintracht defender has been an excellent replacement for the current Arsenal fullback this season. If he can keep up his impressive run for the entirety of the season, he will definitely make a strong case for making the Germany squad for the World Cup next year.

#3 Mats Hummels (Bayern Munich)

The emperor, Hummels has been imperious in the centre of defence for the Bavarians

Hummels has been by far the most impressive defender for Bayern Munich this season. In a season full of ups and downs, especially in the defensive department, the former Dortmund captain has stayed to his true self and prevailed as a real leader in the backline for the Bavarians.

His national team partner, Jerome Boateng has struggled due to injuries and lack of form this season, which has further escalated his importance in the Bayern backline.

The 29-year-old averaged more defensive actions than any other Bayern Munich player this season. He made at least 2 interceptions per game, which is very good considering the fact that Bayern usually dominates the game week in, week out. He is also a vital cog when it comes to the build-up play from the back.

In fact, his stunning laser passes and long balls have been his main feature for quite some time now.

Hummels is easily one of the top five defenders in the world and the German international will no doubt have a big part to play in the second half of the season for the German champions.

#2 Naldo (FC Schalke 04)

The experienced Brazilian has been vital for the Royal Blues so far

A rejuvenated figure in the backline, Naldo's presence in the Schalke defence has been a boon for Domenico Tedesco's men this season.

Partnering up with former Man City defender Matija Nastasic, the Brazilian has been the pillar of the much improved and disciplined Schalke defence.

The young coach has wisely used Naldo's physical prowess and his vast experience to shore up his side's defence, which has been among the best in the league this season.

Furthermore, Naldo has also helped the club on the other end of the pitch, with his aerial prowess. The experienced defender scored two goals this season, both of which came as an equalizer in the last minute against Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt respectively.

He has emerged as a true leader in the centre of the defence for Schalke this season and his presence will be equally important in the Bundesliga Ruckrunde.

#1 Philipp Max (FC Augsburg)

The König (king) of assists, Max was brilliant in the first round

By far the most improved Bundesliga defender this season - Philipp Max's success story with Augsburg has been remarkable. The defender has played a vital role in the club's success this season.

For a club that many pundits expected to get relegated, head coach Manuel Baum has used his players very wisely, which is clearly reflected in their impressive performances this season.

And Max has been the notable improvement under the tutelage of the 38-year-old gaffer of Augsburg.

Known for his stamina and fighting spirit, manager Baum has successfully managed to transform Max into a creative outlet from the fullback position.

The 24-year-old has created more chances than any other player in the Bundesliga this season. In fact, he even leads the assist charts this season with a stunning total of nine assists in just 17 matches making the German defender the primary source of Augsburg's chance creation this season.

The 24-year-old has been hugely impressive and should he continues his remarkable form, he might as well make a strong case for being selected in Germany's World Cup squad next year.