Defenders
Hector Bellerin (Arsenal)
After being thrown in at right-back last term following an injury to Mathieu Debuchy, Hector Bellerin has made the right-back spot his own at the Emirates. One of the quickest players in the division, the 20-year-old is devastating in attack and has the attributes to defend against any winger. Has created 10 chances and the Gunners have conceded just eight goals in the 11 matches he’s played.
Chris Smalling (Manchester United)
Probably the standout defender in the Premier League this season, Chris Smalling has gone from squad player to one of the first names on the team-sheet at Old Trafford. The England international has shown quality both on and off the ball, and has been more than a match for the top flight’s best strikers. Again impressive in the recent 2-1 victory at Watford, the 26-year-old is the main man in a defence which has conceded a Premier League low nine goals in 13 matches.
Toby Alderweireld (Tottenham Hotspur)
Spurs knew they were getting a talented defender when they signed Toby Alderweireld from Atletico Madrid. The Belgium international was fantastic on loan at Southampton last term and has transferred that form over to White Hart Lane. Alongside fellow countryman Jan Vertonghen at the heart of the backline, the 26-year-old is the main reason why his side have conceded 11 times in 13 matches. He’s also chipped in with a couple of goals.
Nacho Monreal (Arsenal)
After a shaky opening to his Arsenal career, Nacho Monreal looked to be on his way out of the Emirates this time last year. But the Spaniard has turned his career around at the Emirates and is the club’s most improved player in 2015. Now accustomed to the pace of England’s top flight, the 29-year-old has given every winner a tough time. Although not as dynamic as Bellerin at right-back, he cleverly picks his moments to join the attack and links up well with those in attack.