UPDATE: The EFL Championship has unveiled the top 12 centre-backs of the season, highlighting standout performers during the current fixture break. With clubs reflecting on their progress amid the November internationals, the rankings showcase players who have significantly impacted their teams as the season approaches its halfway mark.
Defensive prowess is more crucial than ever in today’s game, where centre-backs are expected to combine strong defensive skills with ball-playing abilities. This list, compiled by Football League World, emphasizes those who have excelled in these areas across the opening 15 games.
12. Rob Atkinson – Bristol City
Atkinson kicks off the list despite a recent hamstring injury. The 27-year-old impressed with a goal against Ipswich and an assist against Birmingham City. He remains in the top 10 percent for tackles and duels won, showcasing his defensive consistency.
11. Ben Wilmot – Stoke City
Wilmot has been integral to Stoke City’s solid defensive record, with only 10 goals conceded this season. The 26-year-old has made 68 recoveries and won 73 duels, reinforcing his team’s strong start under manager Mark Robins.
10. Charlie Hughes – Hull City
Hughes is a key figure in Hull’s surprising playoff push. The 22-year-old has delivered strong performances, including a stunning assist against Portsmouth. He leads the division in blocks per 90 minutes, showcasing his defensive reliability.
9. Lloyd Jones – Charlton Athletic
Charlton’s success has been built on solid foundations, with Jones shining since moving up from League One. He boasts the third-best average in clearances per 90, proving invaluable to the Addicks’ defense.
8. Dara O’Shea – Ipswich Town
Retaining O’Shea this summer was crucial for Ipswich. The captain’s recent performances have been stellar, highlighted by his first goal for the club in a 2-1 loss at Middlesbrough. His aerial strength and tackling skills have been pivotal as Ipswich seeks promotion.
7. Jannik Vestergaard – Leicester City
Vestergaard has provided stability for Leicester, showing composure under pressure and contributing to their attacking efforts with goals against Sheffield Wednesday and Swansea City. His defensive skills have kept the team competitive despite mixed results.
6. Jordan Storey – Preston North End
Storey has been a rock for Preston, making 22 interceptions so far this season. His dominance in duels has helped transform the Lilywhites’ defensive setup under Paul Heckingbottom.
5. Tristan Crama – Millwall
Crama, who started the season at right-back, has thrived at centre-back. His partnership with Jake Cooper has earned praise, particularly for their ability to intimidate opponents and maintain possession.
4. Christoph Klarer – Birmingham City
Klarer has been a standout for Birmingham, consistently demonstrating his aerial dominance and composure. As the newly appointed captain, his leadership and skill have been crucial for the team, averaging the most accurate passes per 90 minutes in the Championship.
3. Dael Fry – Middlesbrough
Fry’s resurgence has been vital for Middlesbrough. The homegrown captain has scored twice this season, including a significant goal in a match against Birmingham on November 8, 2023. His defensive contributions rank him among the best in the league.
As the Championship season progresses, these centre-backs will be crucial in shaping their teams’ fortunes. With the next set of fixtures on the horizon, fans and clubs alike will be watching closely to see if these players can maintain their impressive form. Stay tuned for ongoing updates and insights into the Championship as the season unfolds.
