Chris Smalling, the #12 for Manchester United is developing into a very competitive and intelligent ball-playing centre-back. Perhaps, he is viewed as the heir apparant to Rio Ferdinand in this role.
So what attributes make a great Manchester United centre-back? Here's what Smalling has to say:
1. Concentration - Concentration is a big one. At United, you can be doing hardly anything for 15 or 20 minutes because we've got the ball, but then you have to be switched on for a pass behind the defence. So, concentration is important.
2. Positioning - Positioning is all about being aware when you're on the pitch. You must always be looking around, over your left shoulder then your right. As the defence, you are the eyes for the people in front and the eyes for behind as well. Communication is a big factor too. When you're at the back, you see the whole pitch. You need to shout at the midfielders to go left or right and you speak to the full-backs and fellow centre-back.
3. Tackling - Tackling is a dying art nowadays, even for defenders, as you're advised to stay on your feet. If you can win it whilst on your feet then you're not risking any foul or innocuous decision, but when you make a nice, crunching tackle or a last-ditch challenge, it's a great feeling.
What other attributes do you think are necessary for a centre-back? Tweet us your thoughts: @ManUtdDugout
