Ian Ladyman revealed the top five Premier League centre-backs of all time on Mail Sport’s ‘Everything Clicks’ podcast, with John Terry topping the list. Virgil van Dijk’s error in Liverpool’s 3-1 defeat by Arsenal is likely to spark a heated debate among Manchester United fans over the ratings of several defensive stars, with Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand in the corner.
Despite the two giants being on opposite sides, Premier League winner Manchester City and a true Chelsea legend took down the Ladyman. In the latest edition of the podcast, Ladyman offered her recommendations in ascending order, starting from fifth place to the winner. “I’d pick Vincent Kompany, Nemanja Vidic, Virgil van Dijk, Rio Ferdinand and number 1 John Terry,” the Ladyman told Chris Sutton. “That’s my five.”
When asked why Terry came first, Ladyman said: “What do I want from a centre-back?” I want trust. I want leadership. “Thirdly, I also want someone who can pass the ball directly.” He doesn’t pass the ball like Rio Ferdinand, but if I want someone to cover me for the rest of my life in the last five minutes of a cup final, I want John Terry to be there. “Because he does the main job.”
He did, lived a long life and was a winner. He was a winner.“I didn’t know how many awards he won, but he won. Yes? We know he’s had bad moments and he doesn’t remember Moscow or penalties or anything like that, but now he does. But I think it’s him because of his credibility.
Interestingly, two seasons ago, Van Dijk took first place in the women’s ranking. “In terms of ability, two seasons ago I would have had Van Dijk first,” he added. “But I think longevity should be factored into this survey. That season, when Liverpool won the Champions League, Van Dijk excelled on the ball throughout the season and became the best centre-back in the Premier League this season. “But because of the injury he suffered against Everton (ACL injury), he’s not at that level yet.”
Sutton also said he would include Arsenal great Tony Adams. “This is not my list and I don’t mind, but there must have been a Tony Adams somewhere in the past,” Sutton said.
