Micah Richards told CBS Sports on Paramount+ on Tuesday evening that Liverpool midfielder, Fabinho, is the ‘number one’ defensive-minded midfielder in the world.
But the former right-back thinks that Real Madrid’s very own defensive rock, Casemiro, ‘isn’t far behind’ his fellow single-named countryman.
Casemiro was Man of the Match for Madrid when they knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League, but he produced a more indifferent display against Chelsea, who walked away from Spain with a 1-1 draw from their first-leg.
Nonetheless, this is what Richards had to say about Madrid and Liverpool’s two number six’s, Casemiro and Fabinho.
“He did a job against Jamie’s (Carragher) Liverpool, just nullifying that threat,” said Richards. “He is always in the right position.
“He’s been instrumental in what they have done really. He’s like a midfielder who doesn’t get enough credit.
“I think when we are talking about defensive midfielders then Fabinho would be my number one. But he’s not far behind.”
Brazil, who are known for their flair, speed and attacking talents, are producing some high-quality defensive midfielders.
Fabinho has been one of the most successful on the domestic circuit in recent years, with the £39 million man (BBC Sport), lifting the Premier League title and the Champions League.
But it was his fellow countryman who won the battle last time out and he will be hoping to knock another English side out of the CL next week.
But, a certain energetic battery in N’Golo Kane stands in his way, as the Chelsea man was the Man of the Match during the first leg in Madrid.
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