Martinez has named Barry as the best, see if we agree.
Everton manager Roberto Martinez has made a bold claim by stating that his currently injured star Gareth Barry is the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League.
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“He is the best defensive midfielder in the league, never mind in English football,” the Spaniard was quoted by ITV.
Here CaughtOffside picks out our top 10 holding players in the division, see if you agree.
10. Youssuf Mulumbu, West Bromwich Albion
Has become something of a forgotten figure at the Hawthorns having been linked with some top sides in the past, but the 27-year-old is still a great asset for the Baggies.
9. Victor Wanyama, Southampton
Struggled to truly make his mark last season following a move from Celtic, but now under the guidance of Ronald Koeman the Kenyan is thriving.
8. Mile Jedinak, Crystal Palace
Captain of the Eagles and a midfielder who played a big part in their survival last term and will be looked to once again for a repeat performance this time around.
7. Tom Huddlestone, Hull City
Has reinvented himself at the KC Stadium after going somewhat stale at Tottenham Hotspur and Huddlestone is unlucky not to be back in the England squad.
6. Alex Song, West Ham United
Excelled at Arsenal before struggling to fit in at FC Barcelona, but now back in England on-loan at the Hammers and the Cameroon international is back to his best.
5. Fernandinho, Manchester City
May not be doing as well this campaign as his impressive debut in 2013/14, but with Yaya Toure also struggling for form this Brazilian will need to show his class again.
4. Gareth Barry, Everton
Martinez names him as the best and we also like the 33-year-old, but only enough to select him in fourth position.
3. Steven Gerrard, Liverpool
Another who has been criticised for his form this season and although not a natural holding player Gerrard has adapted well to occupy the role in front of the defence.
2. Daley Blind, Manchester United
Signed from Ajax for £13.8m over the summer and that looks to be a relative bargain as the versatile Blind has protected the back four in very attacking Red Devils side.
1. Nemanja Matic, Chelsea
Way out in front though is this 25-year-old, who returned to Stamford Bridge in January after a spell with Benfica and has slotted in perfectly alongside the more attack-minded Cesc Fabregas.