Approaching the 2016 European Championship, Bleacher Report will review and rank the top 200 players of the tournament based on their positions. In the fourth ranking review, we look at the center-backs.
The ranking is composed of two categories: one is made up of defensive skills (interceptions standing and running, aerial challenges), and the other is based on their influence on the game (reading the game, discipline, aggression, and ball-playing ability). Each player in each of these categories can receive a maximum of 50 points, and by adding up the points scored in both categories, the ranking of European Championship center-backs was compiled.
In the first part of this review, we present the center-backs remaining in positions 16-30.
30. John O'Shea - Ireland
Defense: 32/50
O'Shea moved on to fight for survival in the "Sunderland" team after playing for titles at "Manchester United," but he did not change his style of play. In the last three matches, he helped the team to earn seven points, contributing his experience to the club's survival in the "Premier" League.
Influence on the game: 35/50
The 35-year-old player can play in any defensive position, and his best attribute is his ability to understand the game. O'Shea knows very well how football is played in the "Premier" League and uses his strength and good positioning to push attackers out and intercept balls.
Overall rating: 67/100
Throughout his career in the Irish national team, O'Shea has played in 111 matches, but the most serious test awaits him with the national team next month. In the group stage alone, he will have to compete against players like Lukaku or Ibrahimovic, so the experienced player will have to use all his accumulated experience to stop them.
29. Thomas Vermaelen - Belgium
Defense: 34/50
For the past three years, Vermaelen has not been good. Plagued by injuries, the Belgian lost his place in the "Arsenal" ranks, and these followed him even after moving to "Barcelona."
When healthy, the defender has almost everything a center-back needs - he plays well in the air and is decent at intercepting balls. What he lacks is avoiding injuries and spending more time on the field.
Influence on the game: 35/50
Injuries have clearly taken away some of Vermaelen's speed, which hinders him when facing fast attackers. However, the 30-year-old still cannot be stripped of his excellent game understanding, and he is still useful in defense. Improving this aspect is not so simple.
Overall rating: 69/100
After Kompany's injury, Vermaelen should have a bigger role in the Belgian national team. What the Belgians and the player himself need is for him to stay healthy throughout the tournament.
... (continues with remaining players)
