Premier League Team of the Season: Who are the top Premier League defenders statistically?

It can be the difference between survival or relegation; the top-four or title glory. It's why defenders are now commanding the same price tag as strikers - in some cases a defender will cost more.

Premier League top performers series

• Goalkeepers: A look at the keepers

It's the area of the pitch where specific players are needed to execute a style of play. The wrong player in a system makes life more difficult for a manager and in most cases they have to adapt and implement a Plan B.

There have been a number of stand-out performers throughout the campaign who have played a significant part in helping their side reach their current position.

Ahead of the Premier League's return, we will look at the best performing players in each position over the coming days; aiming to find those who have excelled in the areas that matter most.

This time, we are focusing on the defensive line and analysing the statistics behind the main areas.

You shall not pass