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EPL: Top 20 Number 2’s Countdown

By Geoff Nichols

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May 23, 2013; St. Louis, MO, USA; Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic (2) and Manchester City forward Carlos Tevez (32) battle for the ball at Busch Stadium. Manchester City defeated Chelsea 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports

3 – Winston Reid – West Ham United

Winston Reid has been an absolute rock this season and his a big factor in West Ham’s tremendous form and position in the EPL. He looks so composed for a centre back who only has EPL experience from his time at West Ham and he is one of those centre backs that you just enjoy watching. He is the captain of the New Zealand national side and those leadership qualities translate to the back line with West Ham. His form is crucial if they are to maintain their incredible start and you wonder if he can continue his incredible knack of being in the right place at the right time.

2 – Nathaniel Clyne – Southampton

From seemingly nowhere Nathaniel Clyne has emerged as the most dangerous attacking right back in the EPL alongside Seaumus Coleman. He has shown so many qualities for Southampton this season, continuing from a break out year last campaign. He has taken big chances in important moments and it is a luxury to have a right back who can offer this. He has pace and hunger, having been rewarded with a call-up into the England national team which was fully deserved.

1 – Branislav Ivanović – Chelsea

Branislav Ivanović is a tremendous player. He rarely puts in a performance that isn’t at the highest level and has the fire within him leads to passionate performances on a weekly basis. Defensively he offers the capabilities of a centre back and his aerial strength is phenomenal. He wins headers all over the pitch and is an outlet for Chelsea when they want to guarantee keeping possession. Critics point out his poor crossing and that is no doubt as aspect of his game that could be improved, but his overall reliability means he is a guaranteed pick for the EPL leaders, even with Cesar Azpilicueta as competition for his place.

Next Up: EPL: Top 20 Number 5’s Countdown

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