EPL: Top 10 center backs for 2016-17

With less than two weeks until Premier League action kicks off, we’re taking a look at the 10 best at each position in the EPL. Today, we’ll dive into the center backs. What makes them great and what can we expect in 2016-17?

Is central defense the toughest position in the game today? With a flurry of talents on the wing, in the attacking midfield and on the frontline, today’s center backs certainly have their hands full.

Imagine being a CB against Leicester City last season. Not only would you be run ragged by Jamie Vardy for 90 minutes, but you’d also have the Riyad Mahrez to worry about, who at any moment could cut in from the right and either rip off a screamer or deliver an incisive pass in the blink of an eye. The thought of trying to stop them while keeping your back to the goal as much as possible would be enough to keep any defender up at night. Perhaps that’s why Leicester cruised to the title.

In any case, most would agree that center back isn’t the EPL’s greatest contribution to world football. But that’s not to say we won’t get to see some great ones take the pitch every weekend. We will. If not, fans will be treated to several 4-4 draws this season.

*Quick note: If you missed last week’s countdowns, you can find the strikers here and the fullbacks over here.

Next: Chelsea's other veteran English CB