The footballers who win their one-on-one matchups with successful tackles can often have just as much impact on a game as a key striker or a pass-happy winger.
Here we take a look at the ten toughest tacklers in the Premier League, based on the number of times they’ve won their challenge though the first 12 games of the season:
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10. Chancel Mbemba – 40 tackles
A solid addition to Newcastle, Mbemba has done as much as he can to keep the team just outside of relegation.
9. Cesar Azpilicueta – 40 tackles
Not that Cesar’s efforts have helped Chelsea avoid giving up the third most goals in the league, but he’s still having a stellar season.
8. Simon Francis – 40 tackles
Bournemouth need their backs to play as well as Francis is playing to have even a chance at escaping the relegation zone – the team has allowed the second-most goals in the BPL.
7. Nathaniel Clyne – 42 tackles
Not even Liverpool’s best tackler, Clyne has only improved in the weeks since Jurgen Klopp took over.
6. N’Golo Kante – 43 tackles
Kante ranks first for interceptions in the BPL and has filled in admirably for Esteban Cambiasso.
5. Fernandinho – 43 tackles
It should come as no surprise that the second-best defense in the Premier League has one of its best tacklers. Fernandinho has been a force in all phases of the game in the absence of David Silva.
4. Robbie Brady – 44 tackles
The Canaries are clear of the relegation zone thanks in large part to Brady’s solid play.
3. Yohan Cabaye – 45 tackles
Cabaye’s transfer to Crystal Palace reportedly broke the club record, but whatever amount they paid for they certainly got their money’s worth.
2. Erik Pieters – 51 tackles
Surprisingly, the Stoke City star is an as solid an option at full-back as there is in the Premier League.
1. Lucas Leiva – 55 tackles
Not only is the Liverpool midfielder leading the league in successful tackles, he’s made his way to the top in only ten out of 12 possible matches.